October was a busy and rewarding month for the Rotary Club of Neenah, filled with service, fellowship, and community impact. From cleanup projects to fundraising for global causes, our members once again demonstrated that Service Above Self is more than just words—it’s action.
Highway Treasure Hunt (Cleanup) – October 8
Rotarians and their families gathered near the Bee Hive in Neenah for our semi-annual Highway Cleanup—fondly known as the “Highway Treasure Hunt.” Under organizer Seth Merrill’s leadership, the group spent a productive couple of hours collecting litter and brightening up a stretch of local roadway.
After the cleanup, members stuck around for food, drinks, and great conversation. The sense of camaraderie was just as strong as the sense of accomplishment. As one of our Facebook posts summed it up perfectly:
“It’s amazing what a difference a few hours and a group of caring people can make… Together, we keep Neenah shining!”
Light Bollard Cleaning – October 18
Rotarians once again hit the trail for another hands-on service project—this time cleaning the light bollards along the Loop the Lake Trail at Herb & Dolly Smith Park. With buckets, soap, and elbow grease (and a few kids helping, too), volunteers helped keep one of Neenah’s most beautiful public spaces looking its best.
Thanks to Seth Merrill for organizing another great outdoor project. As shared afterward,
“These are the moments that remind us what Service Above Self is all about. Small efforts like this make a big difference!”
Pints for Polio – October 22
Our third annual Pints for Polio fundraiser was a night to remember! Held in the Greene Room at Greene’s Pour House, the event brought together Rotarians, friends, and community members for live music from Tipsy Gypsy, raffles, pizza, and fellowship—all to support Rotary International’s PolioPlus program.
A huge thank-you goes out to organizers John Winters and Aaron Sensenig, Greene’s Pour House for hosting, and Tipsy Gypsy for donating their time and talent. The energy was high, the room was full, and the cause couldn’t have been more important.
“Every pint poured brings us one step closer to a world free from polio.”
STRIVE at the Boys & Girls Club – October 23
The first STRIVE session of the school year kicked off at the Boys & Girls Club of Neenah, giving our STRIVE 11/12 students a glimpse into the value of safe, positive after-school environments. Students participated in team-building activities, explored the facility, and shared lunch with Rotarians.
Special thanks to organizers Jamie Kriewaldt and Renee Boven for leading the session—and to Tim Bergstrom, who joined the group to offer encouragement, wisdom, and even some Bergstrom swag.
“Moments like this are what STRIVE is all about—connecting, encouraging, and helping students see the path to their full potential.”
Rotary Fellowship at Urban Market – October 30
We closed out the month with fellowship and fun at Urban Market in downtown Neenah. Hosted by Club President Matt Brehmer, the gathering brought together Rotarians, spouses, and guests for casual conversation over beer, wine, and appetizers.
Events like these remind us that fellowship is a cornerstone of Rotary—it strengthens our connections and keeps our club vibrant and welcoming.
Looking Ahead…
October showed what makes the Rotary Club of Neenah special: service, generosity, teamwork, and heart. As we move into the final months of the year, let’s carry that spirit forward—continuing to serve our community, support global causes, and enjoy the friendships that make Rotary so meaningful.