Giving a helping hand to those who have given so much to us
SUPPORTING OUR HEROES
Giving a helping hand to those who have given so much to us
Why: Big Unit Foundation
Our History
Bill Michaels, widely known as "The Big Unit," has been a significant figure in Wisconsin sports radio since 1999 when he was hired by WTMJ radio. Over the years, he has expanded his sports talk show into a top-rated program with a statewide audience.
17 years ago, Bill launched a charity motorcycle ride called "The Big Unit Poker Run," w
Bill Michaels, widely known as "The Big Unit," has been a significant figure in Wisconsin sports radio since 1999 when he was hired by WTMJ radio. Over the years, he has expanded his sports talk show into a top-rated program with a statewide audience.
17 years ago, Bill launched a charity motorcycle ride called "The Big Unit Poker Run," which started with just 42 bikes. Today, it stands as the largest annual ride in Wisconsin, boasting over 1100 bikes and more than 1300 participants. For the past 11 years, this event has proudly supported Fisher House Wisconsin, a charity dedicated to helping veterans and military members and their families. Bill joined Fisher House Wisconsin's board of directors 9 years ago and is approaching the end of his final term this December.
Bill's commitment to supporting veterans, military members, their families, and also local first responders remains steadfast. In 2024, encouraged by his fiancé Christen, they established Big Unit Foundation, dedicated to perpetuating the legacy he has built and providing ongoing assistance to these heroes.
About Big Unit Foundation
Our Founders
Big Unit Foundation was founded in 2024 by Bill Michaels (President) and his fiancé Christen (Vice President) who realized an opportunity to further their support of the men and women who protect us and our freedoms as well as give back to the community that they care so much about.
Our Team
Our team is made up of individuals from all walks of life who share the same goals and aspirations.
(Left to right) John Atlee (Owner Water Doctors), James Mercado (Owner ProVisor and Veterans America) Jeffery Beine (CFO Palermo's Pizza) Christen Meyer (VP Tresury Management Associated Bank), Deb Wolf (Victory Homes and VP of GermanFest) KC Hallgren (Snow & Ice Management Assoc.) Bill Michaels and friends / supporters Deena Wojtkowski and Brian Nelson.
** Not pictured - Ben Jarvis (Owner E.S.O.R. Realty) Mike Turowski (Sales Manager Werner Electric)
DONATE
If you can't attend our events but you would like to aid us in our mission, please take a moment to make a heartfelt donation.
Thank you!
Discover Big Unit Foundation: Empowering Communities
We believe in the power of community and the importance of working together to achieve our goals. At Big Unit Foundation, we truly enjoy the interest and support from so many communities around the state of Wisconsin.