Menasha Corporation, Neenah, marked its 175th year May 21 by donating $3.75 million to Fox Valley area organizations as part of a commitment to donate $6 million to charity in 2024.
Local donations include:
- $250,000 to Christine Ann Domestic Abuse Services, Oshkosh
- $250,000 to Trout Museum of Art, Appleton
- $250,000 to Jefferson Park in Menasha
- $3 million to Elisha D. Smith Library, Menasha
Menasha Corporation was founded by Elisha D. Smith in 1849 making it the third oldest company in Wisconsin, according to CEO Chris Drees.
“Elisha D. Smith believed in building the best products in the industry, but not only building the best products but also making sure the company was a responsible business supportive of the community and the citizens,” Drees said.
Both Menasha Mayor Austin Hammond and Neenah Mayor Jane Lang acknowledged the support the corporation has provided throughout its history and referred to its founder.
Hammond referred to Smith’s quote written on a wall at the company headquarters that reads, “I think any person will live longer and happier in this world by doing something to help mankind.”
Lang said, “I believe that Elisha D. Smith would be able to recognize his own values that Menasha Corporation continues to embrace.”
The company, which employs 7,800 people in 108 facilities in North America and Europe, annually donates about $2 million to nonprofit organizations in the communities where it operates.
The Menasha Corporation Foundation committed to increasing donations in 2024 as part of the company’s 175th anniversary. In addition to the local donations announced and the annual $2 million, it will provide another $350,000 in communities outside the Fox Valley.
While making the announcement, Drees said the 175th anniversary is about looking forward as much as it is about reflecting on the company’s legacy.
“We’re not done growing and not done innovating,” Drees said. “I think the future of Menasha Corporation is extremely bright along with the communities that we operate in.”
Hear Drees talk more about Menasha Corporation innovation in the NEW Manufacturing Insights podcast: https://insightonbusiness.com/podcasts/
