Events

On September 19 the annual Donor Appreciation event was held at the Grand Oshkosh to honor our gracious donors and the impact they made over the past year. Over 200 donors and community members joined the Foundation in celebration.

The perfect venue captured the elegant theme of celebrating families and their contributions to our community. Guests were greeted by the smiling faces and musical tunes of the String Program from the Boys and Girl Club of Oshkosh, which was supported by the Ruth A. Nordhaus Fund. Serenading guests in the theater were Tom Thebo and Andy Mertens. The Grand stage and Lounge hosted the evening’s delicious hors d’oeuvre, provided by the Roxy.

Bill Wyman, CEO and President of the Foundation, welcomed the audience and introduced Peter Lang, president of the board to present the evening’s awards. The first Partner in Philanthropy award was presented to John and Susan Vette for their countless contributions to the community. The Vettes are passionate about learning what the needs are in the community and how they can make the most impact. They are not only generous in their financial contributions, but also in giving of their time and talents.

Also receiving a Partner in Philanthropy award was Sydney Supple, who raised funds to build a new softball field at Rainbow Park. After receiving the Gatorade Player of the Year award in 2017, she used the money to kick off her fundraising efforts for the new field and to leave a legacy for her hometown. Sydney’s passion and determination was evident on the softball field as well as her desire to give back to the community that had supported her throughout her softball career. Sydney was unable to attend the event but sent an acceptance speech to share with our guests. Sydney’s mother, Heidi Supple, accepted the award on her behalf.

The JEK Foundation once again presented the Foundation with a $150,000 match gift towards the Good Samaritan Fund. The fund has now reached $1,000,000 and with our donors help, grants will be awarded to address the most pressing needs in our community. Donate to the Good Samaritan Fund today!

The JEK Foundation honored the Wyman, Hyde and Wachtel families with the Good Samaritan award for their generations of contributions and support to the community. Mr. Tom Wyman and Mrs. Joyce Hyde accepted the award on behalf of their families.

The Foundation is humbled by the generosity of our donors and appreciate their continued support over the years. Thank you to everyone who joined us at the 2019 Donor Appreciation event and we look forward to seeing you again next year.

View more photos from the 2019 Donor Appreciation event here.