Our Story

Learn more about what we do for our community and why.

trailer 2023

Making Spirits Bright originated in 2012 by Sheboygan County Rotarians with a vision to create a family-friendly holiday event while gathering food donations for local pantries during one of the most critical times of need. Partnering with our Sheboygan County Food Bank (SCFB), this event has helped contribute over one million pounds of food to those in need.

Each night, as the light show dazzles visitors, volunteers deliver donated items to SCFB’s warehouse, directly supporting local families, seniors, children, and veterans facing hunger. SCFB’s emergency food network, which includes nearly 40 partner organizations, serves a growing average of 5,766 families each month in 2024.

handing food 3 2017

Monetary donations collected at the end of the light show route ensure the continued success and growth of the event. To date, over $305,000 has been donated to our Sheboygan County Food Bank (SCFB).

Making Spirits Bright was incorporated on March 7, 2013, and granted 501(c)(3) status on October 13, 2013.

Board of Directors

Mike Vandersteen

President

Rob Vander Schaaf

Vice President

Don Martens

Treasurer

Tom Henning

Secretary

Tanya Boman

Peter Dietz

Scott Luedtke

Kevin Sander

Mike Roth

Ron Navis

Steering Committee

Dave Hoffman

Steering Committee Chair

Don Martens

Treasurer

Mally Henne

Secretary

Jodie Zajkowski

Food Collection Chair

Todd Arnoldi

Food Collection Vice Chair

Gerry Plehn

Fundraising Chair

Mally Henne

Marketing Chair

Dave Dassow

Operations Chair

Jeff Bayer

Operations Vice Chair

Greg Liebig

Production Chair

Tom Shircel

Production Vice Chair

Laura Gumm

Santa's Station Chair

Barb Martens

Santa's Station Vice Chair

Kristine Frohling

Volunteer Chair

Lynn Vander Schaaf

Volunteer Vice Chair