After devastating home fire at home of 30-year associate Mike Jurgella, company bands together to raise 13-times original goal

Stevens Point, Wis. – On the night of January 11, 2020, a Plover family lost everything when a fire broke out, completely devastating their home. Mike and Becci Jurgella, their teenage son Alec, and their two dogs were uninjured, but the family lost everything that was in the home.

When Mike’s employer Worzalla, a Stevens Point printing company specializing in high-quality custom books, heard about this tragedy, they immediately launched a plan to help the family. Mike, who has been an associate at Worzalla for more than 30 years, was well known and respected throughout the company. A GoFundMe account was set up with the modest goal of raising $1,000 to help the family.

"All of us at Worzalla were deeply saddened to hear the news of the devastating fire at the home of Mike and Becci Jurgella,” said Brianne Petruzalek, Director of Human Resources at Worzalla. “Everyone who works here at Worzalla cares greatly about their co-workers, and they were inspired to help raise funds to support Mike and his family during this difficult time. We hope that together we can provide some relief to the Jurgella family and help them get back on their feet after such a tragic event."

Within days of launching the GoFundMe account for the Jurgellas, they had surpassed their goal. By the end of January, more than $13,500 had been raised from more than 180 donors including fellow Worzalla associates, friends, and members of the community. Individual donations ranged in size from $20 to $500.

“We were classmates at [Stevens Point Area Senior High] and I want you to know that me and my family are so very sorry this happened,” said one donor.

“No words can explain your loss. Here with you and for you. Please know you can lean on us during this difficult time,” another donor posted with a donation of $500.

“We are completely overwhelmed from the generous donations to our family in this time of need,” said Mike Jurgella. “We thank Worzalla for their thoughtfulness in starting the GoFundMe account. We are blown away and truly blessed from the response of co-workers, friends, and even strangers. This community has shown us so much love and support.”

Mike says that they will use the funds for temporary housing and necessities while they determine the next steps to finding a new home for his family.

The GoFundMe account for the Mike and Becci Fire Relief campaign is still open and accepting donations at https://www.gofundme.com/f/mike-amp-becci-fire-relief.