Around the Valley: Neenah library's Volunteer of the Year named; BEAMING Inc. derby event set

Dodi Gauthier recognized for volunteer work at Neenah library

The Friends of the Neenah Public Library has named Dodi Gauthier as 2023 Volunteer of the Year. She started volunteering at the library in 2019, and in 2023, she volunteered 150 hours.

The Friends of the Neenah Public Library has named Dodi Gauthier as 2023 Volunteer of the Year.
The Friends of the Neenah Public Library has named Dodi Gauthier as 2023 Volunteer of the Year.

Gauthier helps prepare materials for take and create kits, crafts to go, and activities for outreach and youth programming activities. She also has helped with the summer lunch program, the book sales and the monthly legal clinics.

As stated in a press release, when asked why she enjoys volunteering at the library, Gauthier said, “The library is just a beautiful, serene place and it offers incredible opportunities for learning, relaxing, and going on adventures.”

She also volunteers with ThedaCare and Reach Counseling in Neenah and fosters dogs through Sandy Paws Rescue of Fond du Lac, among many other community service positions.

For more information about volunteering at the library, call 920-886-6321 or visit www.neenahlibrary.org.

Day at the Derby event to raise funds for BEAMING Inc.

BEAMING Inc. is set to host its annual Day at the Derby event from 4 to 6 p.m. May 4 at the BEAMING Ranch, 2692 County GG, Neenah.

The Kentucky Derby will be shown on a large-screen TV. Attendees can enjoy homemade soups, hors d'oeuvres, wine, beer and nonalcoholic beverages. There will be contests for best Derby attire and best Derby hat; a “photo booth” complete with Derby hats; and raffle baskets, including a drawing for a 55-inch TV.

Tickets are $25 per person, available at givebutter.com/yTkhvm. Funds raised will benefit BEAMING Inc.

J&R rescue to celebrate Amphibian Week, May 5-11

Celebrate Amphibian Week May 5 to 11 with J&R Aquatic Animal Rescue at 976 American Drive, Suite 1, Neenah.

During the week guests can participate in educational activities to learn more about amphibians and meet the amphibians currently at the rescue.

According to a press release, amphibians face numerous threats, including habitat loss, climate change, and disease. Approximately one third of all amphibian species are in danger of extinction. Amphibians play a vital role in our ecosystem and are deserving of recognition and protection.

Throughout Amphibian Week, the public is invited to participate on social media. JRAAR will share information on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram about amphibians, their importance, the threats they face, and how you can help. Use hashtags #AmphibianWeek and #AmphibianWeek2024 to join the conversation and spread awareness.

This article originally appeared on Appleton Post-Crescent: Around the Valley: Neenah Public Library's Volunteer of the Year named