About Us - History Of The Nexstar Legacy Foundation

From Innovative Roots – The Nexstar Network

The Nexstar Legacy Foundation was born from the innovative roots of its for-profit sister company, the Nexstar Network. The first of its kind, the Nexstar Network was formed by Frank Blau (Blau Plumbing and Heating - Milwaukee, Wisconsin) and was the first ever organization dedicated to the business education of service contractors. It would become the pioneering best practices organization dedicated solely to the service and repair industry.

The Nexstar Network has remained steadfastly dedicated to its members and maintains the founding core values—integrity, quality, value, member profitability and customer satisfaction—that have taken the organization to such remarkable success. Nexstar is positioned to support members with an array of tools and programs such as internet-delivered information, instructor-led schools, member mentors, business coaches and special events. Nexstar serves its diverse members with leading edge research, best practices and product/services development. Through Nexstar, members share insights and proven practices with each other. The ultimate aim is to provide each individual member with the right tools, in the right order at the right time to help them realize their dreams—in business and in life.

The Creation of a Dream – The Nexstar Legacy Foundation

In 2005, a new dream was born out of the Nexstar Network, the dream of giving back through an industry that has provided so much. This dream came together in the form of the Nexstar Legacy Foundation, a 501 C3 not for profit, which immediately succeeded in developing an endowment base and scholarship program.

Scholarship Program: Over $100,000 Invested into Building our Industry!

The scholarship program was the foundation’s first chance to give back. Designed to provide educational funding for trades people and to bring new talent into the home service industry, the scholarships provide funds to students interested in the plumbing, HVACR and electrical trades. The scholarship program started in 2005 and has awarded over $100,000 to more than 40 students.

Nexstar Legacy Foundation Endowment: $200,000 Fuels our Mission!

In order to give back, the foundation first needed to grow. The endowment began in October of 2005 with $34,000 in donations. To date the endowment has grown to $200,000. This growth couldn’t have happened without you!

An Historical Timeline Of The Nexstar Legacy Foundation:

September 2005: Foundation incorporated
October 2005: Endowment created
February 2006: Initial strategic planning session in Wisconsin
February 2006: Board in place
Fall 2006: First scholarships granted
October 2007: First raffle drawing held
August 2007: First staff hired
January 2009: 2nd strategic planning session
November 2010:  Donor Giving Program started
February 2011: Scholarship Program expanded and refocused on technicians
July 2011: Board approves an expanded vision for the Foundation
October 2011: Scholarship program goes online