"As natives of Chippewa Falls, Jerry and Mary [Jacobson] easily shine as two of the Chippewa Valley’s citizen leaders, giving unstintingly of their time and resources to make the region a better place to live, work and play."

This is the opening statement used on the nomination asking CVFRP to consider the Jacobson’s as the Outstanding Philanthropists for 2006.  It also well represents the commitment and personal investment this year’s Outstanding Philanthropists have for the Chippewa Valley.

Jerry Jacobson has also taken his philanthropic values to his employer as President of Northwestern Bank in Chippewa Falls.  With the support of the bank’s board members, he has served as a role model for what it means to be a local business that supports the community.  Mary’s philanthropic efforts have focused on activities involving their two children - Todd and Beth.  Together, Jerry and Mary give annually of their time, talent, and treasure to youth and community-based entities, as well as, branch out to support causes and programs near to them that they know will make a difference.