APPLETON — The J.J. Keller Foundation has approved a $25,000 challenge grant for the COTS Inc. Single Mothers with Small Children Program.

The challenge grant will allow COTS to provide a transitional shelter and program for single homeless mothers with children. There is a growing need for housing for this population both nationally and in the Fox Valley, COTS executive director Cindy Sahotsky said.

The J.J. Keller Foundation will match dollar-for-dollar all gifts raised up to $25,000 through March 15. For more information on how to participate in the match challenge, call COTS at 920-734-3609, ext. 404; e-mail info@appletoncots.org or visit www.appleton cots.org and go to the how to support COTS.

COTS is a transitional shelter program for homeless men and women and now single mothers with children. The program offers temporary housing and living skills classes as residents reshape their lives in a positive direction.

Healthcare fundraiser nets $66,000

The Wolf River Area Healthcare Foundation's Seventh Annual Dinner drew $66,000 in donations — the first funds raised in support of the relocation and expansion of the chemotherapy infusion suite at New London Family Medical Center.

About 250 people attended the Autumn Gala fundraiser Sept. 21.

Sponsors included Boldt Construction Co., First State Bank, Kwik Trip, McMahon, Sara Lee Foods, Dr. Avi Bar Lev/Fox Valley Hematology and Oncology, Epic Systems, Griebenow Eye Care, Dr. and Mrs. Paul Hoell, Ingenuity First, Klein Automotive-Clintonville, Dr. Marc Miller, New London Family Medical Center, Premier Community Bank, Radtke-Rhone Insurance Agency, Theda-Care, ThedaCare Physicians-New London, Women's Care of Wisconsin, and Jernegan's Health Mart.

Sue Bender, joined by sister Jodi Gruentzel, addressed attendees and offered a tribute to their mother, Joyce Marcks, who received care at New London Family Medical Center during her fight with cancer.

Bender and other family members are assisting the foundation in raising $250,000 for the new chemotherapy suite to honor Marcks' memory and help realize her vision of an improved setting for care.

Verstegen earns Leaven award

Dan Verstegen of Little Chute was presented with the Leaven 2010 volunteer of the year award during the Volunteer Dinner held Sept. 16.

Verstegen is a retired social worker, administrator, county board member, community leader and volunteer who joined the Leaven team of volunteers in 2002. He has contributed nearly 1,500 hours through his role as Leaven's director of technology.