There are moments when the heart of a community shines through one person. On Tuesday night at Venue 404, during our 2024 Community Impact Appreciation Event, we were proud to celebrate such a person—Sandy Shaffer—as the recipient of this year’s Sue Panek Community Impact Award.
Presented by Sue Panek, past CEO of Oshkosh Area United Way and namesake of the award, alongside Mike Steinhoff, President of Rhyme, the moment was filled with deep meaning and heartfelt appreciation. Mike reflected on his connection to Sue and his long-standing ties to the community, saying, “Sue was one of the first people I met nearly 20 years ago. We now live here, work here, and our son lives here—and Sue was part of the beginning of all of it.”
He also shared a personal connection to this year’s theme, noting, “Mental health awareness and support is critical in creating a thriving community. The work of tonight’s recipient really hits home for me, as I’ve seen close family members struggle with mental health challenges.”
Mike Steinhoff and Sue Panek present the Sue Panek Community Impact Award at the Appreciation Event, recognizing outstanding local leadership and service.
Sandy Shaffer embraces Sue Panek after receiving the Sue Panek Community Impact Award, with Mike Steinhoff and Beth Oswald looking on during the heartfelt presentation.
OAUW Board Member Tricia Rathermel, who led the selection committee, celebrates with award recipient Sandy Shaffer.
At Oshkosh Area United Way, mental health is one of our key focus areas—and Sandy Shaffer exemplifies what it means to drive lasting change in this space. As a mental health and substance use therapist and owner of Shaffer Counseling & Consulting (part of Collaborative Wellness), Sandy has made it her mission to ensure everyone—regardless of financial means or insurance status—can access the care they need.
“Sandy has dedicated her career—and her heart—to making a difference in the lives of those struggling with mental health and substance use challenges,” Sue shared during the presentation.
Her leadership extends beyond the clinic to include advocacy, education, and collaboration. She has been instrumental in harm reduction efforts and supports mental health education in schools, serving on numerous boards and committees including Solutions Recovery, Christine Ann Domestic Abuse Services, and the Winnebago County Overdose Fatality Review Team.
In the Oshkosh Area School District’s Rise Up Program, Sandy provides direct therapy to students, supports school staff, and ensures access to mental health resources for children and teens.
But perhaps what stands out most is Sandy’s compassion. “She lifts up those in their most vulnerable moments,” Mike said. “With dignity, empathy, and an unwavering belief in their ability to heal.”
Sandy’s work aligns powerfully with our mission—because United is the Way to Mental Wellness. Her dedication to improving mental health access and support is helping to build a stronger, more connected community for all of us.
This year, Sandy received an overwhelming number of nominations—the most we’ve ever received since the award was first given in 2018. Her impact is clearly felt across our community, and the strong support behind her nomination speaks volumes. Sandy was surrounded by family, friends, and colleagues at the event to celebrate, making the moment even more meaningful.
Congratulations, Sandy—and thank you for the heart, healing, and hope you bring to our community.
About the Sue Panek Community Impact Award
The Sue Panek Community Impact Award honors individuals who go above and beyond to strengthen our community. Named in honor of former Oshkosh Area United Way CEO Sue Panek, this award recognizes those who demonstrate a deep commitment to community well-being through leadership, compassion, and service. Recipients embody the spirit of collective impact by creating lasting change and improving lives throughout the Oshkosh area.