Blog

Heidi Thomas, President & CEO of Oshkosh Area United Way, poses with community partners and Oshkosh Back 2 School Fair Committee members Ruth Mauritz, Tracy Gehrke, and Elissa Kraynik during OAUW’s 2026 Community Impact Celebration at Venue 404.

Volunteers from Valley Christian School in Oshkosh, pictured above, were one of many groups who helped sort hygiene donations as part of this year’s Help for the Homeless Hygiene Drive.

Bigs with Badges mentor and Little holding a handmade thank-you card during an Oshkosh Area United Way gratitude activity.

The Winnebago Area Literacy Council (WALC) team drops off gently used books at Oshkosh Area United Way to be shared at community outreach events, helping encourage area kids to read.

Beth Oswald (left) and Heidi Thomas (right) together in the Community Vault — a space that reflects the heart of our work and the leadership transition ahead.

Participants bundled up in holiday-themed outfits—Grinch costumes, bright sweaters, hats, and light-up accessories—stand together before the Race for the Light.

Looking for simple ways to support your community? We’ve pulled together a short guide on how you can make a local impact—no matter your time, budget, or interests.

Oshkosh Area United Way (OAUW) is excited to welcome Kate Stel as its new Donor Engagement Manager. In this role, Kate will focus on building strong relationships with donors and […]

A few members of the newly formed Hygiene Task Force tour the Oshkosh Area United Way Community Vault, learning how donated supplies are organized and shared with local nonprofits, schools, and agencies to support families in Oshkosh and the surrounding area.

Heidi Thomas, Community Impact Manager at Oshkosh Area United Way, stands alongside Ruth Mauritz from the Back 2 School Fair, smiling as they help unload colorful backpacks, notebooks, and hygiene supplies. The two are surrounded by boxes and bags of donated items being delivered to OAUW’s office—just a glimpse of the generosity helping local students start the school year with confidence.