BLACK hosts third Wingapalooza fundraiser for youth programs

LA CROSSE, Wis. (WKBT) — A local nonprofit brought the community together over wings to support youth programs in La Crosse during the third annual Wingapalooza fundraiser.

Black Leaders Acquiring Collective Knowledge hosted the event at the Radisson Ballroom, raising money to support youth programs focused on leadership, education, and inclusion in the La Crosse community. The fundraiser featured a kids area, a 50/50 raffle, and plenty of wings on the menu.

“Wingapalooza is one of our top fundraiser events. It supports our youth programs, and then also with BLACK being a nonprofit organization, this also helps fund other events that we host within our community,” said Emily Medinger, vice president of BLACK.

The event highlighted local businesses and entrepreneurs, including last year’s Wingapalooza champion Mia, who returned to compete again. The competition gives local vendors a chance to showcase their food while supporting the cause.

“I love that it is a fundraiser. I love that we are getting together over a dish that everyone loves, wings are my fan favorite, everyone’s favorite. So it’s just awesome to be able to support BLACK,” said Mia Simone Davis, owner of Mia’s Kitchen.

Organizers emphasized that beyond the competition, the event brings people together and strengthens relationships across the community. The fundraiser creates opportunities for community members to connect while supporting important youth initiatives.

“This is important because it allows people to build more relationships with the community. We get to know and meet people within the community and have a good time and enjoy the importance of community connection,” Medinger said.

Black Leaders Acquiring Collective Knowledge uses the funds raised through Wingapalooza to support various youth programs that focus on developing leadership skills, educational opportunities, and promoting inclusion throughout the La Crosse area. As a nonprofit organization, BLACK relies on community fundraisers like Wingapalooza to sustain its programming and outreach efforts.

Organizers set a fundraising goal of approximately $6,000 for this year’s event. The money raised will directly benefit BLACK’s ongoing youth programs and help fund additional community events throughout the year.

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