UNITED IS THE WAY

Friday Five: 10/09/ 2026

 

1

Costume Swap at the Fond du Lac Public Library


Looking for a costume for Halloween? Stop by the Fond du Lac Public Library on Friday, October 9, from 3–5:30 p.m. in the Discovery Room to pick out a new-to-you costume! Costumes are free and limited to one per child while supplies last. Availability is not guaranteed, so stop by early for the best chance to find a costume.

2

Make a Difference with Generations Hospice: Volunteers Needed



Do you have a caring heart and a desire to make a difference in someone’s life? Generations Hospice is looking for compassionate volunteers to provide companionship, comfort, and support to patients and their families throughout Wisconsin. Even a small amount of time can make a meaningful difference for someone nearing the end of life and for the loved ones caring for them.


Volunteers can share their time and talents in many ways, including visiting patients, reading, singing, and helping with creative activities. No previous specialized training is required, and volunteer training is provided.


Volunteer Requirements:

  • Age: Must be 18 or older.
  • Compassion: Have a kind, caring heart and a willingness to support others.
  • Time commitment: Volunteer at least 30 minutes every other week.
  • Screening: Complete a background check, provide references, and pass a drug test.
  • TB test: Complete the required TB test.
  • Orientation: Attend a 5–6-hour orientation. Lunch is provided, and multiple location options are available.


Do you have a musical talent to share?

Generations Hospice especially welcomes people who enjoy singing, playing an instrument, or sharing music with others. Your talents could bring comfort, joy, and special moments to patients and their families.

Generations Hospice serves communities throughout Wisconsin, offering opportunities to give back and make a difference close to home.

Interested in volunteering?


Contact Beth Pelland, Volunteer Coordinator at Generations Hospice, to learn more about getting involved.

Your time, kindness, and compassion can mean more than you know.

 

3

4

Stay Warm This Winter: WHEAP Applications Are Open


With heating season beginning October 1, applications are now open for the Wisconsin Home Energy Assistance Program (WHEAP). This program helps eligible households manage heating and electric bills during the heating season, which runs from October 1 through May 15.


Eligibility is based on household size, gross income, and energy costs.



How to Apply in Our Tri-County Area

  • Fond du Lac and Winnebago Counties: Apply online or call Energy Services at 1-800-506-5596.
  • Green Lake County: Contact ADVOCAP at 920-426-0150 to learn how to apply by phone, mail, or email.


Don't wait to explore your options for help with winter energy costs!


Learn more about eligibility and how to apply: Home Energy +

5

Help Local Families Stay Warm and Make the Holidays Brighter


The Salvation Army of Fond du Lac County is accepting applications for its annual Coats for Kids and Christmas Assistance programs. Eligible families can apply from October 1–31 for winter coats and Christmas gifts for their children.


Now in its 135th year of serving the community, The Salvation Army helps local families manage the added expenses of winter and the holiday season. In 2025, more than 2,000 children received Christmas gifts, a warm winter coat, or both.


Family Applications Close October 31! Parents who wish to register their children for both programs must complete a separate application for each.


Community members can support these programs by:

  • Donating new or gently used coats, from infant sizes through adult XXL, by October 28.
  • Making a financial contribution online at safdl.org or in person at 237 N. Macy Street, Fond du Lac.
  • Organizing a workplace or community collection drive.
  • Volunteering to help organize and distribute donations from October through December or assisting with the annual Kettle Campaign.


Every coat, gift, and donation makes a difference for local families. Help The Salvation Army keep children warm and bring joy to households throughout Fond du Lac County this winter.


Questions? Contact The Salvation Army of Fond du Lac County at 920-923-8220 or visit its Facebook page.

The Plus One

Walk to End Polio at Marian University


Join the Noon and Morning Rotary Clubs of Fond du Lac on Saturday, October 24, at Marian University for the Walk to End Polio! Take part in this community event and help support the global effort to end polio.


To participate, scan the QR code on the event flyer to register.


Interested in volunteering? Contact Chris Martin at cmartin@marianuniversity.edu or 920-923-8148.



Thank you for supporting the fight to end polio!