Last year, Fox River launched the Light The Way initiative to spread the message of Jesus in four ways:

1. Donating 10% of funds to global missionaries.
2. Opening a new North Waukesha campus by Easter.
3. Improving the flooring at the Muskego Campus for safety and comfort.
4. Building a community pavilion at the South Campus for Upward Teams and families.

We’ve successfully opened the North Campus and received positive feedback from missionaries!

The Muskego Campus flooring costs are higher than expected, and we’re actively seeking financial and structural solutions, with ongoing meetings involving Pastor Rob, engineers, and construction companies.

The pavilion’s construction timeline depends on full financial funding. We have an update and an invite regarding this project.

Upward sports were special…

A year ago, Colin Strebe and his grandfather tragically died in a plane crash.

Fox River and Upward Sports were special to Colin, his sister Courtney, and their parents, Stephanie and Cory. Colin loved playing basketball and soccer, and volunteering with his family at the concession stand. Last weekend marked a year since Colin’s passing.

This weekend would have been his 10th birthday.

Cory and Stephanie have leaned on their faith during this difficult time. 

Here is their story…

Our world was flipped upside down and our hearts were shattered on June 14, 2023 when Colin and his grandfather [Stephanie’s dad] unexpectedly went to Heaven. When we think of Colin we remember a boy who was enthusiastic, curious, and effortlessly showed love for his family and friends. His short childhood is something we never imagined and a heartache that we still haven’t found the words to describe – a scar we will carry with us for the rest of our lives on this earth. And yet among the pain, Jesus has revealed Himself to us and walked with us every step of the way. 

As parents, raising our children to know and trust in the Lord has been, and continues to be, our number one mission. There are many moments with Colin that we will always hold close. And the one that stands out the most was two years ago while we were driving to school when we prayed together after Colin shared that he wanted Jesus in his heart.  We have complete confidence that Colin is forever safe and alive in Heaven. The gift of Colin’s eternal life in heaven brings us peace and allows our weary hearts to praise our good and gracious God. 

We owe much of Colin’s Heavenly life to Fox River Kids and Family Ministries. Both Colin and Courtney have participated in Upward Sports and because of programs like Upward our children have heard about the Gospel outside of our home and outside of the church walls…all while having fun, building confidence and developing character. Our children have been blessed to be influenced by the many volunteers who are committed to Upward, who exemplify what it means to know Jesus and live a life rooted in The Word on and off the field.  Colin loved Upward and proudly invited school and neighborhood friends to join.

Having a child in Heaven has given us eyes to see and hearts to better understand eternity.  Our lives on this earth are so short and the veil between Heaven and earth is so incredibly thin. Our prayer is that Colin’s life points more people to Christ. We believe the pavilion is an opportunity to impact families and change generations by offering a space to build and grow in community, all while increasing God’s Kingdom…an opportunity to change lives here on earth and forever in eternity.

When Colin went to Heaven the Strebe family asked that a memorial fund be established to support Upward Sports at Fox River. A total of $380,000 has been donated to the fund.

The Strebe’s are excited for the Colin Strebe Memorial fund to be a catalyst in fundraising for the pavilion, with the hope that many more children and their families will come to know the love of Jesus.  

What an incredible gift and legacy.

On the weekend of July 13th & 14th, Fox River will take a special offering during the services and everyone is invited to take part. This offering is one that goes above and beyond regular giving and other Light The Way pledging, this offering will go specifically towards the construction of the Pavilion.

The pavilion’s total cost is estimated at $530,000. We believe that the generous donations from the Fox River community, combined with the Colin Strebe Memorial fund, will help close the $150,000 funding gap. This will ensure the pavilion is fully funded and ready for groundbreaking this fall. 

Over the next few weeks, pray about how you can take part and what you can give. This is an opportunity to make an impact not only right now throughout Waukesha County, but for eternity as well. Don’t let this opportunity pass you by. Come prepared to participate in the offering July 13th & 14th.

Some of you may not want to wait, you may have heard the Strebe story and are moved to take part now – Give, then please designate ‘Special Offering: Pavilion’ – if you chose to give cash or check, please designate – Special Offering: Pavilion on the envelope or in the memo.

Thank you again to the Strebe family and let’s continue to pray for them and to seek God’s glory in all we do.

When Colin went to Heaven the Strebe family asked that a memorial fund be established to support Upward Sports at Fox River. A total of $380,000 has been donated to the fund.

The Strebe’s are excited for the Colin Strebe Memorial fund to be a catalyst in fundraising for the pavilion, with the hope that many more children and their families will come to know the love of Jesus.  

What an incredible gift and legacy.

On the weekend of July 13th & 14th, Fox River will take a special offering during the services and everyone is invited to take part. This offering is one that goes above and beyond regular giving and other Light The Way pledging, this offering will go specifically towards the construction of the Pavilion.

The pavilion’s total cost is estimated at $530,000. We believe that the generous donations from the Fox River community, combined with the Colin Strebe Memorial fund, will help close the $150,000 funding gap. This will ensure the pavilion is fully funded and ready for groundbreaking this fall. 

Over the next few weeks, pray about how you can take part and what you can give. This is an opportunity to make an impact not only right now throughout Waukesha County, but for eternity as well. Don’t let this opportunity pass you by. Come prepared to participate in the offering July 13th & 14th.

Some of you may not want to wait, you may have heard the Strebe story and are moved to take part now – Give, then please designate ‘Special Offering: Pavilion’ – if you chose to give cash or check, please designate – Special Offering: Pavilion on the envelope or in the memo.

Thank you again to the Strebe family and let’s continue to pray for them and to seek God’s glory in all we do.