LEAVEN turns to community to support families in crisis and show every donation, big or small, has a life-changing impact
MENASHA, Wis. [Jan. 14, 2025] — LEAVEN, a nonprofit organization providing emergency assistance to families facing financial challenges in Outagamie, Calumet and northeastern Winnebago counties, is excited to launch its year-long-40th-anniversary celebration. LEAVEN is kicking off this significant milestone with its $40 for 40 Years fundraising campaign, designed to engage the community and reinforce LEAVEN’s mission of turning hardship into hope for local families facing financial emergencies.
While LEAVEN’s official 40th anniversary will be in 2027, it is beginning the celebration throughout 2026 to build awareness and momentum. This milestone offers a unique opportunity to honor the organization’s history of empowering community members to support immediate needs in the Fox Cities.
“For nearly forty years, LEAVEN has been a resource for support for individuals and families navigating unexpected financial hardship and today that need seems to be growing,” explained Nikki Gerhard, executive director for LEAVEN. “We see every day how even the smallest contributions can create a ripple effect of hope and stability for families in need. That is why we’re asking for just a $40 donation from each donor with our $40 for 40 Years campaign. Just $40 can help keep a family warm, provide essential supplies or prevent a crisis. Together, our community can make a profound difference with one small act at a time.”
The $40 for 40 Years campaign invites community members to honor LEAVEN’s four decades of service by making a meaningful $40 contribution. To amplify its impact, the campaign includes a generous $20,000 dollar-for-dollar match from J. J. Keller, helping unlock up to $40,000 in total support. Designed to highlight that every gift, regardless of size, can create real impact, the initiative underscores the importance of individual giving. While LEAVEN has long benefited from the generous support of local businesses, this campaign emphasizes how even a modest donation, when matched, can help meet immediate needs and support neighbors on their path toward stability and hope.
In addition to monetary donations, LEAVEN continues to accept in-kind gifts that provide direct relief to people in need. High-need items include toiletries, diapers, laundry detergent, cleaning supplies and wipes.
To learn more about LEAVEN and its services, or to make a donation to the $40 for 40 Years campaign, visit leavenfoxcities.org/40-anniversary.
