Oak Creek Gives Back: How To Make A Difference This Season And Beyond

Giving Tuesday is all about generosity — and some of the most meaningful giving happens right here at home. Celebrated the Tuesday after Thanksgiving, Giving Tuesday shifts the focus from finding deals to doing good. But there’s no reason to wait — or stop once the day has passed.

This year, Patch and T-Mobile are spotlighting organizations in the Oak Creek area that are making a difference and helping others in need. These local groups are doing important work, and there are plenty of ways to support them — from donating and volunteering to spreading the word. This isn’t a complete list, but it’s a great place to start, so be sure to reach out to each organization directly to learn how you can help.

Alzheimer’s Association Wisconsin Chapter

The Alzheimer’s Association Wisconsin Chapter supports more than 110,000 local residents living with Alzheimer’s and their caregivers through education, advocacy and research. With programs across the state, the Milwaukee-based chapter provides community resources, a 24/7 helpline and local events that raise awareness and advance the search for a cure.
Learn more: alz.org/wi

Friends of the Oak Creek Public Library

The Friends of the Oak Creek Public Library is an independent volunteer group that supports the library through fundraising, advocacy and special events. Their efforts fund programs, expand resources and foster community engagement through projects like the annual silent auction and the ongoing Book Nook sale.
Learn more: oakcreeklibrary.org/friends

Friends of Wehr Nature Center

The Friends of Wehr Nature Center helps sustain an accessible 220-acre nature preserve that offers trails, educational exhibits and wildlife programs in Franklin. The nonprofit supports environmental education for all ages, inspiring visitors to explore and protect Wisconsin’s natural world.
Learn more: friendsofwehr.org

Hunger Task Force

Based in nearby West Milwaukee, Hunger Task Force distributes fresh, healthy food to local residents in need. The organization’s thousands of volunteers help organize and operate food drives, educational programs about hunger and a 200+-acre produce farm.
Learn more: hungertaskforce.org

MobiliSE

MobiliSE brings together business and civic leaders to strengthen transportation options across Southeastern Wisconsin. Founded from decades of regional advocacy, the nonprofit promotes multimodal transit solutions and operates FlexRide Milwaukee, a workforce rideshare service connecting residents to jobs and opportunities.
Learn more: mobilisewi.org

Oak Creek Community Center

Since 1994, the Oak Creek Community Center has been a gathering place for residents to celebrate milestones and connect through local events. From concerts and fundraisers to family festivals and holiday traditions, this self-funded nonprofit builds community spirit year-round and relies on donations and event rentals to continue its mission.
Learn more: occenter.com

Oak Creek Historical Society

The Oak Creek Historical Society preserves the city’s rich past through its outdoor museum, archives and community programs. Visitors can explore exhibits that highlight Oak Creek’s early days while volunteers maintain the museum grounds and collect local artifacts for future generations to enjoy.
Learn more: plschu.wixsite.com/ochistorical

Oak Creek Lions Club

The Oak Creek Lions Club has served the community since 1958 through volunteer projects, fundraisers and humanitarian aid. With more than 100 active members, the group donates 100 percent of proceeds from events like LionsFest to support local needs and global initiatives under the Lions’ motto: “We Serve.”
Learn more: oakcreeklions.com

South Milwaukee Human Concerns

Founded in 1973, South Milwaukee Human Concerns provides food, clothing and emergency support to residents facing hardship. The nonprofit receives no taxpayer funding and depends entirely on donations and volunteers to deliver compassionate assistance to those in need.
Learn more: smhumanconcerns.org

Wisconsin Humane Society

The Wisconsin Humane Society rescues and cares for animals statewide, relying entirely on community donations to fund its shelters and wildlife hospital. The organization offers adoption services, education programs and numerous ways to give, from monthly donations to vehicle and property gifts.
Learn more: wihumane.org

Give back in whatever way feels right for you — together, we can make an impact in Oak Creek.

This content is brought to our community in partnership with T-Mobile