Oak Hill Community Connections

06/11/2026

Big milestones call for big gratitude.

Oak Hill Community Connections wants to extend a massive thank you to the Owatonna Foundation for their recent, transformative donation of $450,000.

Our goal has always been to build a nurturing environment where vital local resources, healthcare partners, and short-term housing can come together under one roof. Thanks to this incredible generosity from the Owatonna Foundation, that vision is rapidly becoming a reality.

Thank you for your historic support and for continuously working to improve the quality of life for everyone in Owatonna.

06/08/2026

We are moving right along on the Oak Hill Community Connections project, and we couldn’t do it without our incredible local partners! Today, we want to give a massive shoutout to the team at C4 Cabinets.

Based in Owatonna, owners Joe Herzog and Dana Thompson bring over 30 years of experience to this build. Their team is handling the custom fabrication and installation for our main community gathering areas, ensuring the space is both highly functional and beautifully crafted for long-term use.

Thank you, C4 Cabinets, for helping us build strong connections and beautiful spaces in our community.

06/02/2026

Behind the scenes: Things are coming together at Oak Hill Community Connections!

When we look at the progress happening this week at Oak Hill Community Connections, we don’t just see drywall and dust—we see the foundation of a safe, welcoming environment for families and individuals.

Here is what the hard-working crews are installing this week:

The Structure: Drywall is being finished, creating distinct spaces for collaboration and care.

The Comfort: Upgraded heating and cooling systems are being wired in to ensure a safe, conditioned environment.

The Functionality: Cabinets are being installed, finished carpentry is adding the final touches to windows and doors, and plumbing is being routed for our essential laundry services.

A huge thank you to everyone working behind the scenes to bring this critical resource to life. We can't wait to open our doors and welcome you all in!

05/26/2026

Construction Update: The Colors Are Coming Alive!
Things are moving fast behind the scenes at Oak Hill Community Connections, and we couldn’t wait to give you a sneak peek!

The walls of our new shelter space are officially transforming, and the whole place is truly coming alive. A warm, welcoming environment is so important for the individuals and families we will be serving, and these fresh coats of paint are making a world of difference.

A Huge Thank You to Willie's Painting!
We want to extend a massive shoutout and thank you to the incredible crew at Willie's Painting. They have been working hard to brighten up the space, and their beautiful work is bringing us one step closer to opening our doors to the community.

Want to help us cross the finish line? We are still working hard to reach our $4 million goal to complete this vital project. You can support our progress and make a direct impact right here:
https://www.oakhillcc.care/campaign

05/22/2026

The Power of the Collective: Furnishing Hope

Our partner spotlight series continues with an organization dedicated to stability, independence, and long-term success: Furnishing Hope.

By turning community donations into life-changing resources, Furnishing Hope empowers our neighbors and strengthens our local support system. We are incredibly proud to partner with them. When we align our resources and look out for one another, we amplify our impact—that is the true power of the collective.

🔗 To learn more about their services, how to donate gently used furniture, or how to get involved, visit: furnishinghopeowatonna.org

05/20/2026

📬 Check Your Mailbox! (And Help Us Cross the Finish Line)
Have you spotted the Oak Hill Community Connections letter in your mail yet?

We are incredibly closer to bringing this vital community project to life, but we need your help to get over the finish line. Thanks to the amazing generosity of neighbors like you, we have already raised $3.2 million!

The Goal: $4 Million
We are just $800,000 away from our $4 million goal. Every single dollar raised goes directly toward completing this project and providing essential support to those in need right here in our community.

If you received our mailer and have been meaning to give, you don't have to wait to mail it back! You can make your impact instantly today.

👉 Donate electronically right here: oakhillcc.care/campaign

Building a stronger community, together. Whether you can give $5, $50, or $500, your support keeps our momentum going. Thank you for being the heart of Oak Hill!

05/19/2026

Thank you Trinity Lutheran Church - Owatonna, Minnesota for your continued support of Oak Hill Community Connections!

Thanks to your donations and the generosity of the Trinity Foundation, we have raised a total of $115,350 to support the completion of Oak Hill Community Connections! When this space opens, it will be the first shelter in southern Minnesota specifically designed and built for families. Thank you for being part of this important work in our community. Your gift is a blessing, and so are you. 💜

05/12/2026

The Power of the Collective: Transitional Housing of Steele County

Our partner spotlight series continues with an organization dedicated to stability, independence, and long-term success: Transitional Housing of Steele County.

Transitional Housing of Steele County helps homeless individuals and families transition out of homelessness and into independent living. By bringing their vital case management and housing services into the Oak Hill Community Connections facility, we are streamlining the path to a permanent home. This partnership ensures that families in transition can access essential resources and support systems all in one central location.

At Oak Hill, we believe that a stable home is the foundation for a thriving life. Transitional Housing provides the tools and guidance necessary to move from crisis to independence, ensuring that every family in Steele County has the opportunity to build a secure future.

Learn more about their mission: https://www.transitionalhousingsc.com/

05/12/2026

PROGRESS UPDATE: Things are moving fast at Oak Hill Community Connections! We are officially in the "finish phase," and the transformation from a construction site to a community space is happening before our eyes.

There is a lot of activity on-site this week as our local partners bring their expertise to the project:

- Sheetrock & Paint: The walls are smooth and the color is going up! Huge thanks to Willie’s Painting for the flawless finish and attention to detail.

- Electric: Four Seasons Electric is hard at work behind the walls and in the ceilings, getting our power and lighting ready for opening day.

- Flooring: The team from Owatonna Floor Covering is on-site today, laying the groundwork (literally!) for a beautiful and durable space.

It takes a village to build a community center, and we are so proud to be working with such talented local pros.

04/15/2026

The Final Stretch: We Are Almost There!
Our fundraising efforts for Oak Hill Community Connections have been an incredible success so far, and we are officially entering the final stretch!

We are absolutely thrilled to share that, thanks to the heart and generosity of our early supporters, we have reached over 75% of our goal! (Check out that thermometer!)

It is truly inspiring to see how this community rallies together to create a space where everyone has access to the care and connections they need.

Now, we are asking for your help to help us cross the finish line.

Every contribution—no matter the size—brings us one step closer to completing this project and opening our doors to a stronger, more supported Owatonna. If you’ve been waiting for the right time to get involved, this is the moment where your support will make the biggest impact.

Help us reach 100% by donating today at: 🔗 https://www.oakhillcc.care/campaign

Let’s show what we can accomplish when we show up for one another!