NEENAH, Wisconsin (May 21, 2024) – To celebrate its 175th anniversary, Menasha Corporation, a manufacturer of sustainable corrugated and reusable plastic packaging and provider of supply chain services for more than 2,500 leading global brands in North America, announced it will grant $6 million to nonprofit organizations in 2024, nearly $4 million of which will be donated to organizations in the Fox Valley, where Menasha Corporation was founded. Chris Drees, President and CEO of Menasha Corporation, announced the Fox Valley grant recipients on May 21, 2024, which included remarks from Menasha Mayor Austin Hammond and Neenah Mayor Jane Lang to proclaim May 21 as ‘Menasha Corporation Day’ for both cities.
“Giving back is deeply rooted in Menasha Corporation’s legacy. It is a philosophy that began with the extraordinary generosity of our founder, Elisha D. Smith.”said Drees. “Today, a fundamental tenet of our shareholders and our company is to continue that tradition of philanthropy. In our 175th year of business, we can think of no more fitting and worthy celebratory activity than to honor our milestone by supporting our community.”
Through the company’s philanthropic arm, Menasha Corporation Foundation, the following Fox Valley organizations were chosen as grant recipients:
Domestic Abuse Services Christine Ann
Elisha D. Smith Public Library
Trout Museum of Art
Menasha Jefferson Park
The four grant recipients support causes that fall within the following four areas on which the Menasha Corporation Foundation focuses its support: Safe and Healthy Citizens, An Educated Society, Community Enhancement and Environmental Sustainability.
The remaining donations will be distributed among all Menasha Corporation U.S. locations and include $350,000 in honor of the company’s anniversary and approximately $2 million in typical annual giving.
“We are incredibly honored by the recognition of the cities of Menasha and Neenah with the proclamations presented today.” Drees stated. “Our roots are here in the Fox Valley. Our partnership with Menasha and Neenah enriches our community. These proclamations demonstrate our commitment to supporting these two communities for years to come.”
Awarded Manufacturer of the Year in 2024 by Wisconsin Manufacturers & Commerce, Menasha Corporation is the third oldest continuously operating company in Wisconsin and the 76th oldest family-owned business in the United States. It currently employs more than 7,800 people at 108 facilities in North America and Europe. Headquartered in Neenah, Menasha Corporation employs more than 1,500 workers at 12 facilities throughout Wisconsin.
For more information about Menasha Corporation’s 175-year legacy, visit menashacorporation.com.