12/01/2025
Hi Old Oaks Neighbors,
As we wrap up 2025, we want to share a clear and organized snapshot of what the Old Oaks Civic Association accomplished this year, what’s still underway, and where we hope to grow in 2026. This recap reflects the work happening across our meetings, events, and neighborhood projects — and shows how much we’ve achieved together as a community.
What We Accomplished in 2025:
-Civic Association Meetings: We held 11 meetings featuring guest speakers from 311 & Refuse, Blueprint Columbus, the Columbus Historic Society, Southside Thrive, Columbus Landmarks, Police Liaison, and City Consultants. Thank you to everyone who attended, asked questions, and stayed actively involved — your participation drives our progress.
-Neighborhood Cleanups: Two major cleanups brought out nearly 40 volunteers and removed a significant amount of trash. Special thanks to Alexis Murillo.
-National Night Out: Partnered with RWF to host this annual community-building event. Thank you, Paula Barnes.
-Summer Concert Series: Two evenings of live music that brought neighbors together. Thank you, Shannon Birk.
-Wednesdays on the Porch (WOTP): More than 10 porch gatherings throughout Old Oaks, spanning from Ohio to Kimball. Thank you, Niki Plata.
-WOTP Fundraiser: Hosted at The Houseful Collective to support community programming. Thank you, Lindsey Drahos.
-Fall Pumpkin Patch & Mini Market: Sold pumpkins, added a fall market, and raised funds for OOCA. Thank you, Kurt Hummel, Krysti Murray, and Taylor Harvey.
-Firepit Fridays: Ten gatherings — extended into December this year. Thank you, John Plata.
-Old Oaks Wine Tasting Tour: Revived the progressive wine tasting tradition.
Thank you, Jonathan Sherman, Chantall Gutierrez, Landon Proctor, and Selvia Fajardo.
-Neighborhood Newsletters: Four editions featuring local stories, highlights, and updates.
-Wilson Avenue Planting: Expanded greenery along Wilson toward Livingston, with additional plantings on Linwood. Thank you, David Gray, Michael Herman, Katie Croston, and Bri Flanagan.
-Welcome Bags: Delivered 29 welcome bags to new neighbors — both homeowners and renters.
-Halloween Crawl: Adult-only trick-or-treat event led by neighbors, not the OOCA. Thank you, Leah Sawyer
-Old Oaks Food Drive: Partnered with the Community Kitchen and provided over 10 boxes of non-perishable items.
-Growing Engagement: Attendance at meetings and participation in events increased significantly throughout the year.
Projects Still in Progress:
-Neighborhood Signs — Lead: Jonathan DeZarn
-Community Potluck in December — Leads: Christopher Thompson & Shannon Birk
-Wreaths (shifted to 2026) — Leads: Chris & Rebecca Geof
-Gazebo Lights — Lead: Michael Herman
-Traffic & Safety Planning — Lead: Laura Johnson
-Website Updates — Lead: Julian White
Areas to Improve in 2026:
-No new trees were planted in 2025 — we aim to change that.
-Flyers and outreach materials need to be created and distributed more consistently.
-We need more volunteers — many hands make lighter work.
-Fundraising efforts must expand to meet our project goals.
-Strengthening partnerships with local organizations and businesses will help support future initiatives.
Thank you to every neighbor who participated, volunteered, or led a project this year. These efforts take time, coordination, and care — and nothing we accomplish happens without the support of our community. As we plan for 2026, the board will begin outlining goals and priorities. If you have ideas or feedback, please reach out; your input directly shapes our direction.
See you in the new year!
OOCA Board Members:
Kim Dodson — President
Laura Johnson — Vice President
Jim Jasperse — Treasurer
Jonathan DeZarn — Recording Secretary
Shannon Birk — Corresponding Secretary
John Plata — Sergeant at Arms
Julian White — Chaplain
Jonathan Sherman & Chantall Gutierrez — Directors of Fundraising
Warmly,
Old Oaks Civic Association
