About OWSG

Onalaska Women’s Social Group began with one woman’s Facebook post on a local group page back in December, 2019 asking, “Are there any women’s groups in Onalaska?” Many women responded no, but all of us wanted one. So, some of us banded together to fill the need; on a Saturday in January 2020, 27 women arrived at the Ony Youth Center with delicious food, a need for connection, curiosity, and some apprehension. Lots was planned that day but we never got past the introductions, women had so much to share. That was the beginning of our monthly gatherings on the 2nd Saturday of the month. The next month 47 women showed up. Then the pandemic arrived. 

During the pandemic the group strengthened out of shared need. We would meet down at Carlisle Pond for Tailgate and Trunk Gatherings, sitting in the beds of our trucks or in our trunks with blankets around us, distanced, but sharing with each other and laughing. If a need arose with someone, food was organized, the medicine was picked up, the ride was given, the move was made, the listening ear offered.  This outreach to one another in need infused OWSG with a vibrant sense of care as a cornerstone for what we are collectively about. Hugs are now a staple of our welcomes and farewells. 

We have a full calendar organized by the Mod Squad, self-selected members who help coalesce the group. The calendar is shared on our Facebook group page, our website and through email to those who do not use social media. We have activities during the monthly gathering and at other times. A sampling of what we have done and plan to do include: dinner and theater nights, gem and rock hunting, foot soaking and self-massage, plant and seed sharing, pamper yourself sessions with local health and beauty practitioners, clothing, book, and puzzle exchanges, classes in water-color, beading, stained glass, wreath making, listening skills, BrainPlay, yoga, stretching, sugar detox  Regular walks and special hikes. Game day. In 2022 and 2023 even marched in the Apple Harvest Festival Parade, once winning first prize! Many women meet another or two with whom they click and put together their own activities. We have groups who help others with their yards, sometimes housework, and when extra help is needed due to illness, surgery or death in the family. We also support promotion of members’ activities as applicable. 

Our purpose is to bring together Onalaska women of all ages, backgrounds, beliefs and abilities for connection, education, sharing, and support. Because of the divisiveness of our times, we have agreed since the beginning to focus on our commonality as women living in a rural community and do not speak of politics and religion, finding kindness, caring and fun universal languages.

We have hopes and plans for the future. We are becoming partners with the Toledo Neighbors program to promote and bring healthy free food and recipes to Onalaska folks. We encourage young women, and mothers to request and initiate activities that would support you. We plan to continue the meaningful interconnection among ages. Eventually we may have events, especially whole food potlucks, that include men and families.  This is YOUR group, so feel free to organize or send an idea to the Mod Squad of an activity or event you want to see.  Together we make OWSG what it is. What are your ideas? How would you like to be involved?

Feel free to contact us in any of these ways: 

OWSG Webpage

Facebook Group

Or send us an email at Onalaskawomensg@gmail.com