Give Back in Oxford, Ohio

Oxford, Ohio is a small town with a big heart. From our local chapters of organizations, to a consistent schedule of fundraisers and 5Ks for important causes, ours is a town that cares.

So it comes as no surprise that we have quite a few ways to give back to help better the lives of our fellow community members. Below are just a few upcoming events, as well as year-round opportunities, to help you make a positive contribution. Because at the end of the day we're all in this together. (Which, from my days working at the Boys and Girls Club, I know is a High School Musical song. But it's still true, so I'm keeping it.)

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Kiwanis Food Drive

When: October 1st - November 1st, 2022
Where: TOPSS

Every year the Kiwanis Club of Oxford holds a community-wide Holiday Food Drive, and 2022 is no exception!

To participate, you can make a donation through TOPSS website, or donate food to the TOPSS location. Some current most needed items are:

• Pasta Sauce

• Peanut Butter

• Jelly

• Mac & cheese

• Canned green beans

• Personal Items (shampoo, deodorant, feminine hygiene)

If you have any questions, contact Kiwanis at info@oxfordkiwanis.org or send them a message on Facebook.

Oxford Empty Bowls

When: Saturday, Nov. 12th, 2022 from 11AM to 2PM
Where: Oxford Community Arts Center (10 S. College Ave.)

Oxford Empty Bowls is a benefit soup luncheon that brings the entire Oxford community together. From the artists who make the bowls to the volunteers who serve the soup, everyone has a hand in making this the impactful event we've all come to enjoy.

So what is Empty Bowls, exactly? It's a luncheon wherein guests choose from a gorgeous collection of bowls that have been created and decorated by local artists as well as MU and Talawanda students. They then choose from a variety of soups, as well as homemade bread and desserts, all made by local volunteer cooks. Last but certainly not least, they sit amongst their neighbors and dine together!

Tickets are only $15 for adults, and free for children ages 10 and under (though they'll need to bring their own bowl). All proceeds from this event go to the Oxford Community Choice Pantry. If you have any questions, visit this link for information.

ONGOING OPPORTUNITIES

You don't have to wait for a specific event to contribute time, food, or money to a deserving cause or group. Oxford has several amazing organizations that would love to hear from you:

Oxford Community Choice Pantry

Volunteer your time as a receptionist, shopping assistant, or food stocker at The Oxford Community Choice Pantry so that this organization can continue providing important resources to the community. Food donations are also welcome, as are monetary donations. Money can actually be donated in several ways, all of which you can read about here.

Family Resource Center

The Oxford Family Resource Center is a non-profit organization providing a range of social services to low-income individuals and families, from free tax preparation to financial counseling, emergency financial assistance, and more. You can support them by donating clothes, household items, furniture, non-perishable food items and more to their thrift store. Or sign up to volunteer with them as a receptionist, a tax counselor, or a someone who helps keep up their community garden from spring to fall.

Support Small Businesses

Oxford is full of unique local businesses. From clothing and decor, to fun gifts and produce, you can always find something good as you stroll around the town. When you shop small, you are not just purchasing an item, you are making a difference in business owner's life. You are showing support of the Oxford community. Talk to them, get to know the story behind the business, and a whole new meaning is put into how you shop.

More Ways to Help

United Way of Butler County hosts the Community Connect website which puts you in touch with all area volunteer needs. Research, reach out, and get involved!