And the 2024 winners are

… two great ideas intended to build community and promote well-being.

Longevity Project

Representing The Shorewood Longevity Project, Heather Mansfield requested funding of $500 for posters and flyers, brochures, and educational materials to help kick off the organization’s campaign to promote health, wellbeing, longevity, and happiness in the village.

“The Project is focused on improving the quality of life for all,” she told the Sharks. The small group’s aim is to help Shorewood businesses, schools, and other organizations get the word out about activities, events and other opportunities they sponsor that focus on improving quality of life and promote healthy lifestyle habits.

“The project is modeled after global communities where people not only live longer lives, but often live better lives -- lives rich with health, meaning, and authentic connection.”

The Longevity Project is scheduled to begin June 1.

The Foundation agreed to fund the top contenders at the Shorewood Foundation's 2024 Shark Tank in February.

Polar Plunge

B-r-r-r-r! - Vincent Vogelsang and 40 to 50 friends have been venturing into Lake Michigan on New Year’s Day at Atwater Beach for several years. Now with the backing of the Foundation, Vogelsgang and friends are hoping to expand it into more of a community event with a band, coffee kiosk, and other amenities.

“Start the year off with fellowship and stupid fun,” Vogelsgang said in asking the Sharks for $2,000 to help pay for tenting, a lifeguard and other emergency staffing, plus free coffee and hot chocolate at the plunge. Non-swimmers will be invited to watch the silliness from the bluff to the sound of live music.

The Plunge is another “Gentlemen of Shorewood” event. The Shorewood 12 is their charity bike race in the village with planned stops at village merchants. Last summer, 126 riders participated in the 12-hour event on a six mile course.

Start Date: January 1, 2025