October 16, 2024 – West Bend, Wi – It was a rollercoaster of emotion at this year’s Oktoberfest celebration hosted by Interfaith Caregivers of Washington County. Celebrity waiters catered to over 100 guests who bid on auction items, enjoyed German cuisine, and participated in raising money to help keep senior citizens independent in Washington County, WI. This year’s event was particularly special as longtime Interfaith executive director Janean Brudvig passed the baton to her successor Melanie Gonring.
Brudvig was recognized by Sarah Spaulding for her years of dedication and service. With a dedicated team, Brudvig was able to create a community of volunteers as senior citizens helped senior citizens get to appointments, grocery shop, and remain independent in their homes while managing challenges tied to aging, mobility, and loneliness.
Gonring, dressed in a red German alpine hat and traditional dirndl-style apron, paid tribute to Brudvig. “I have some very big shoes to fill,” she said. “I’m humbled to serve as the next executive director and I’m confident we will be able to continue to build on Interfaith’s legacy and create meaningful impact in the community.”
Guest auctioneer Mike Hilzley kept guests on their toes prompting bidders to help support a great cause.
Celebrity waiter Jerry Mehring went the extra mile and volunteered to Polka in the aisles as he encouraged larger tips from his table.
Probably the biggest emotion came at the end of the night when a winner was drawn for the 50/50 raffle. Sherry Reischel, who worked the room to sell tickets, held the winning number. “I’m going to donate half of this back to Interfaith,” said Reischel after her ticket was confirmed. She showed genuine elation at winning. Can you tell?
A special note of ‘Thanks’ to Janean Brudvig for her years of leadership and dedication.
