The Fox Cities community showed its generous spirit this week as dozens of Culver’s restaurant locations stepped up to raise funds for neighbors affected by recent storm damage. The fundraising effort, reported on Wednesday, August 13, brought together multiple Culver’s locations across the region in a coordinated push to direct proceeds toward storm relief for Fox Cities residents. It’s the kind of grassroots, business-driven community response that reminds Appletonians just how much local businesses care about the people they serve.

Community fundraisers like this one carry real weight when families are working to recover and rebuild. The sight of dozens of familiar neighborhood restaurants uniting around a single cause speaks volumes about the Fox Cities spirit — neighbors helping neighbors, one meal at a time.

On a separate note of local pride, Appleton-based Pierce Manufacturing was in the spotlight this week as the company joined the International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC) to present the 2026 Fire Chief of the Year Awards. Pierce and the IAFC honored fire chiefs who demonstrated extraordinary leadership in their communities — a recognition that reflects not only the honorees’ dedication but also Pierce Manufacturing’s long-standing commitment to supporting the fire service nationwide. Pierce, headquartered right here in Appleton, has been a cornerstone of the firefighting equipment industry for generations, and its partnership with the IAFC in celebrating outstanding fire chiefs underscores the company’s deep ties to the profession it serves.

Together, these two stories paint a picture of an Appleton community — and its homegrown businesses — that shows up when it matters most, whether that means raising money for storm-struck neighbors or shining a light on the brave leaders who protect communities across the country.

Sources: WXOW, Pierce Manufacturing