WQOW TV: Eau Claire, WI NEWS18 News, Weather, and SportsLocal philanthropists recognized during ceremony

Local philanthropists recognized during ceremony

Eau Claire (WQOW) - The standout efforts of a high school sophomore are recognized by the Chippewa Valley. 

Ted Maris of Colfax, is only 14-years-old but has a long list of accomplishments. He spearheaded local efforts to raise money to send care packages to soldiers overseas. He launched an effort to provide shoes for children in Afghanistan and is also organizing a local coats for kids drive.

Ted was honored Friday as the 2009 youth philanthropist of the year. The award was part of a philanthropy day celebration through the Chippewa Valley Fund Raising Professionals. 

The keynote speaker was Joanne Brandes, who graduated from UW-Eau Claire and went on to become a top executive with SC Johnson. She spoke about the link between leadership and philanthropy and how leadership skills don't just develop overnight.

"Whenever you put programs together to create a great community, you've got to have leadership, strong leadership, unselfish leadership, leadership with integrity so that's why I thought I would emphasize that aspect of it today," says Brandes.

An Eau Claire couple was also recognized as the philanthropist of the year. BJ and Bea Farmer have been known for giving financial support, along with their time and talents to countless organizations through the years. News 18's own Jerry Gallagher emceed the event again this year.