Communities at ONHS Veterans Day Celebration

Serving Those Who Served: Communities at Oshkosh North Veterans Day Campaign

Every November, the halls of Oshkosh North High School fill with a unique sense of reverence, connection, and gratitude. For years, the students in the Communities at Oshkosh North program have had the profound honor of organizing, hosting, and serving our annual Veterans Day Celebration—a dedicated day to welcome, celebrate, and care for the military veterans who have given so much to protect our freedoms.

This year, our students have set a campaign goal to raise $1,500 through the Oshkosh Area School District Educational Foundation to fully fund this meaningful tradition. Every dollar raised directly supports hosting local veterans and their guests for a memorable experience filled with fellowship, recognition, and student-led hospitality.

What is Communities at Oshkosh North?

Communities at Oshkosh North is an interdisciplinary, community-based learning program where students learn through real-world projects, civic participation, and hands-on engagement. Instead of simply reading about history or community leadership in a textbook, our students step up to lead.

Organizing the Veterans Day event is one of the most cherished highlights of our academic year. It gives students hands-on leadership experience—from planning the logistics and decorating the venue to personally welcoming and serving our honored guests.

How the Day Unfolds

Our goal is to ensure every attending veteran feels valued and celebrated from the moment they walk through our doors:

Morning Hospitality Reception (8:45-9:45 am): We'll start the morning by welcoming veterans and their guests with a continental breakfast, coffee, and juice in a relaxed setting where service members can connect.

School-Wide Veterans Day Ceremony (10:00-11:00 am): Following the reception, our entire school community joins together for an inspirational program. Featuring musical tributes, patriotic performances, and formal recognition of each service branch. This hour is dedicated to reflecting on the sacrifices made by our military members.

Veterans Lunch (11:00-12:00 pm): Following the ceremony, our students host a sit-down meal. They work as waitstaff and hospitality crew, serving hot meals, refilling drinks, and ensuring every veteran and guest enjoys an exceptional dining experience.

Transparent Breakdown of Funds

We rely entirely on community generosity to fund the food, materials, and hospitality needed to host this multi-part event. Here is how your donation will be put to work:

Morning Reception ($300): Bakery items, juice, coffee, and continental breakfast supplies for veterans and guests.

Sit-Down Lunch ($1,000): Full hot lunch, sides, beverages, and desserts served to our honored guests.

Event Supplies & Decor ($200): Table settings, patriotic decor, signage, and printed event programs.

Campaign Target: $1,500

The Lasting Impact of Your Support

Because this campaign is hosted in partnership with the Oshkosh Area School District Educational Foundation, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, all contributions are tax-deductible to the fullest extent of the law.

When you back this campaign, you aren't just buying food—you are enabling high school students to learn the true value of civic service, hospitality, and gratitude. Most importantly, you are letting our local veterans know the younger generation will never forget their service.

Please consider contributing today. Every bit brings us closer to our goal. Thank you for supporting our students and helping us serve our local heroes