Wisconsin Seniors Give Library $20K to Thank Caring Town
When a tornado struck their retirement home, neighbors rushed to help with everything from walkers to groceries. Now those grateful seniors are giving back with a gift that will serve the community for years.
A Wisconsin retirement community is saying thank you to the town that saved them with a $20,000 gift that will help seniors for generations to come.
The Retirement Housing Foundation presented the donation to Kaukauna Public Library this week to purchase large-print books and create a dedicated reading space where older adults can gather and connect. The gift came on behalf of residents at Round House Manor, a senior living community in Kaukauna.
But this isn't just another charitable donation. It's the beautiful conclusion to a story that started with disaster.
In May 2023, a tornado ripped the roof off Round House Manor. Service Coordinator Cathy Wilbur reached out to the local library, which spread the word about what residents needed. The response was immediate.
Neighbors donated 26 cases of supplies. The Appleton Lions Club gave wheelchairs, walkers, and nutritional drinks. The Heart of the Valley Chamber of Commerce provided a new public address system for the building.
The community showed up again in 2025 when a federal government shutdown delayed resident benefits. Kaukauna residents donated grocery gift cards and food to make sure seniors didn't go without.
Library Director Ashley Thiem-Menning showed off the first large-print books purchased with the gift during a tour of the future reading space. Mayor Anthony Penterman and RHF President Stuart Hartman joined Round House Manor residents for the presentation to the Common Council.
The Ripple Effect
The donation honors Kaukauna with RHF's 2026 Friend of the Elderly Award. What started as a community rallying to help seniors in crisis has come full circle, with those same seniors investing in a space where future generations of older adults will find connection and joy.
The new reading area will serve not just Round House Manor residents but seniors throughout Kaukauna who want accessible books and a welcoming place to gather.
Sometimes the best way to say thank you is to pay it forward.
Based on reporting by Acts of Kindness Desk
This story was written by BrightWire based on verified news reports.
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