There’s something powerful about coming together to celebrate what’s possible when a community unites for good. That’s exactly what happened Tuesday night at Venue 404 during our Oshkosh Area United Way’s Community Impact Appreciation Event, sponsored by Amcor and Rhyme. It was a meaningful evening to recognize the people, partners, and programs that made a difference in 2024.
OAUW Board Member Matt Bray (Amcor) kicked off the evening with a warm welcome, setting the tone for a night of gratitude and reflection. He was followed by CEO Beth Oswald and Campaign Co-Chairs Dave Richter (Silver Star Brands), Chris Nimis (Amcor), and Patrick Hughes (Ansay & Associates), who helped guide the program with insight, humor, and genuine appreciation for our community.
We also took time to recognize the many individuals who help make our work possible. From our Board of Directors and Campaign Co-Chairs—past and present, to our dedicated volunteers (including the always-reliable Monday Ladies) and our generous donors, your commitment and compassion are the foundation of our mission. This event was our way of saying thank you and celebrating the shared impact we’ve created—together.
Why Community Support Matters
When you support Oshkosh Area United Way, you’re not just contributing to a single cause—you’re fueling a collaborative network of programs that uplift individuals and families throughout Oshkosh and the surrounding area. Through strategic investments, OAUW supports a wide range of local nonprofits and initiatives working to address our community’s most pressing needs. Your involvement helps children succeed in school, supports services that improve financial stability for individuals and families, and strengthens access to mental health and crisis services.
It also helps close critical gaps—whether in access to education, housing stability, or basic needs—and ensures resources reach those who need them most. One example shared during the event came from Kate Zurn, Executive Director of Conflict Resolution Center, who highlighted the launch of their pilot Eviction Prevention Program. With startup funding from both OAUW and the Oshkosh Area Community Foundation, the program provided mediation and housing support for local families. The results included greater housing stability, valuable data, and momentum to pursue additional funding. It was a powerful reminder that even modest investments can spark meaningful change when we work together.
More stories and results like this will be featured in our upcoming Community Impact Report—stay tuned for a closer look at how your support is making a difference across Oshkosh and the surrounding area.
An Evening of Gratitude, Laughter, and Recognition
Throughout the night, we were reminded of the passion, creativity, and generosity that power our community. From unforgettable moments to heartfelt thanks, this evening celebrated the people and partnerships making a real difference every day.
The Sue Panek Community Impact Award honored Sandy Shaffer for her decades of compassionate leadership and commitment to making a difference through volunteerism, service, and advocacy for mental health in our area. The award was presented by Sue Panek, past OAUW CEO and namesake of the award, alongside Mike Steinhoff, President of Rhyme, adding a meaningful and personal touch to the evening’s celebration. Sandy has spent her career supporting those impacted by mental health and substance use challenges—removing barriers to care, advocating for harm reduction, and creating access to services for youth and underserved populations. Her impact extends beyond her therapy practice, as she lends her voice and expertise to local programs, school-based initiatives, and community coalitions that are changing lives every day.
The “You Bowled Us Over” Award went to CLA (CliftonLarsonAllen) in recognition of their creativity, enthusiasm, and all-in attitude during this year’s United Way bowling fundraiser. They kicked off their workplace campaign with a mini diaper pack at their office—combining team-building with hands-on service to benefit local families. Their commitment to giving back, paired with their energy and teamwork, made a lasting impression. CLA truly bowled us over with their passion and dedication to strengthening the community.
The Campaign Champion Award recognized the Oshkosh Corporation Campaign Champion Committee for their outstanding leadership and innovation in workplace giving. This powerhouse team transforms their annual leadership breakfast into an immersive experience—connecting company leaders with the real issues facing our community and the solutions Oshkosh Area United Way supports. By engaging leadership early and often, they inspire widespread participation and amplify the campaign’s impact across the organization. Their creativity, passion, and commitment continue to create a ripple effect of generosity that reaches far beyond the workplace.
The 2025 Chevy Trax Sweepstakes Winner was Brittany Albers—congratulations!
Thank you, Bergstrom Automotive, for your incredible generosity and continued support of our community. Your donation of a new car for our sweepstakes is making a real difference—helping us raise awareness and funds to support community-strengthening programs. We’re grateful to partner with you in driving positive change.
And a big thank you to Brittany for supporting Oshkosh Area United Way through her Workplace Campaign—your participation helps fuel programs that make life better for individuals and families across Oshkosh and the surrounding area.
We’re also looking forward to announcing the brand-new car for our next sweepstakes soon—follow us for details!
Thank You to Our Sponsors
This evening of appreciation and celebration wouldn’t have been possible without the generous support of our event sponsors, Amcor and Rhyme. Their commitment to strengthening our community—through both sponsorship and employee engagement—made this special night a reality. We’re grateful for their partnership in helping us honor the people and programs that are creating lasting impact in Oshkosh and the surrounding area.
Let the Community Impact Continue
As we celebrated our collective wins, we were also reminded that there’s still more to do. With the strength of collaboration—local businesses, nonprofits, organizations, and community members working together—we can amplify our impact. Together, we’re creating a community that looks out for one another and where every contribution, no matter how small, helps make a meaningful difference.
United is the Way to a stronger, more connected community.
Thank you for being part of this journey.
Check back for more photos from the OAUW Community Impact Appreciation Event!