Operated entirely by dedicated volunteers, driving positive change in Oglesby. | | |
As we prepare for another year, we are making some thoughtful updates, including a fresh approach to our newsletter. We have heard your feedback that our updates were a bit long, so we’re transitioning to a more streamlined, interactive newsletter experience on our website. You will still receive our email newsletter, but it will be shorter, easier to read (just like this one!), and will include links if you’d like to dive deeper into the details.
We are also working on new ways for members to submit their own updates, exploring an app to improve communication and engagement for everyone, and placing a stronger focus on grant opportunities to support growth and community impact. We Are Oglesby, NFP is making big moves, and we hope you’re all here to be part of what’s next.
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WAO Meeting & Meet The New Library Director | |
COMMUNITY INVITE
Wednesday, January 21
5:30 PM
Oglesby - IL Public Library
The evening will begin with a Meet & Greet with the new Library Director, Anna, followed by the WAO meeting and election of officers.
After the election of officers, we will open the floor for a public discussion. Community members are encouraged to attend, share ideas, and learn more about WAO’s initiatives.
If you are interested in serving on a committee or volunteering, please join us. Your input helps guide what projects we pursue and what fundraising efforts we support.
We look forward to seeing you and continuing to grow together.
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Election Ballot Announcement | |
The following candidates are on the ballot for our upcoming board election:
Vice President* Krista Pagakis
Treasurer* Nick Nosalik
Secretary* Christian Zamin
Marketing: Jeni Hardin
*Seeking re-election
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Giving Back To The Community
We Are Oglesby, NFP and our member, Knobelsdorff, along with several sponsors teamed up to bring a little extra comfort, care, and holiday cheer to the Oglesby community.
WAO and Knobelsdorff covered half the project cost. Community support from sponsors supplemented the rest of the project
to provide 11 Thanksgiving Meal Kits to Oglesby Public School families in the Feed His Children program, 2 meal kits to Pads Shelter (Peru) and catered hot meals from 2 Brothers Restaurant, delivered to 13 Meals on Wheels recipients in Oglesby and Jonesville, as well as 8 First Responders on duty. A $500 donation to Illinois Valley Food Pantry too. Our community showed up in a BIG way!
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We are proud to recognize Officer Dakotah Baker as the First Responder of the Month.
You can sponsor a First Responder for just $25!
Our first responders show up for Oglesby every single day.
Now it’s our turn to show up for them. For $25, ANY ONE can Sponsor a First Responder and help provide them with a small gift to use at businesses located right here in Oglesby, IL.
A small gesture
A big thank you
Support for local businesses
Sponsor one. Sponsor many. Every dollar stays local.
Fill out the Google form below to participate.
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FREE CONCERT
Suggested donation of $20
to support the
Illinois Valley Food Pantry.
| Erin Shields is an Oglesby native with deep family roots in our community, and she’s an extraordinarily talented musician who continues to make her hometown proud. Erin returns home alongside her husband and musical collaborator, David Shenton, for a special evening of music spanning Broadway to Hollywood. | |
WAO Bucks are a simple way to support Oglesby-based businesses while giving a gift that truly gives back. Accepted at participating local merchants, WAO Bucks keep dollars circulating right here in our community and help strengthen our local economy. They make great gifts for birthdays, holidays, employee appreciation, thank-yous, or just because.
Easy to purchase online and always appreciated.
To become a participating location for WAO Bucks, contact Nick, treasurer@weareoglesby.net.
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Becoming a member of We Are Oglesby, NFP means investing in the future of our community. Membership is open to individuals, non-profits, and businesses who want to support local growth, community pride, and meaningful initiatives that make Oglesby thrive. Joining is easy! Simply fill out our membership form and be part of the collaboration shaping what’s next for Oglesby.
2025 members: please check your email, as our new invoicing system has sent out 2026 renewal notices.
Thank you for your continued support and commitment to our community.
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