The 40th annual U.S. Venture Open raised $5,190,659 to end poverty in Northeast Wisconsin. 2,000 attendees and 1,000 golfers gathered for the nation’s largest one-day charitable event, joined by guest of honor, Jeremy Renner.
Since its inception in 1986, the U.S. Venture Open brings together hundreds of partners, golfers, and volunteers on the second Wednesday in August. Over the past four decades, the event has raised more than $75 million and granted $60 million through the Basic Needs Giving Partnership, supporting innovative solutions to address the root causes of poverty.
“Each year, the U.S. Venture Open reminds us of the incredible things we can accomplish when purpose and generosity align,” Greg Vandenberg, director of giving and community engagement at U.S. Venture. “We are deeply grateful for the enduring support of our partners and the unwavering commitment of our team and community members who have made this event possible for the last 40 years.”
The event kicked off with Zac Brown Band playing a private concert for all attendees to celebrate 40 years. Known for their genre-blending sound and electrifying performances, Zac Brown Band provided the energy and exceptional talent to celebrate this milestone. The event was put on to support Camp Southern Ground, founded by musician and veteran advocate Zac Brown. Camp Southern Ground is dedicated to serving children with diverse abilities and backgrounds, as well as veterans and families navigating life after military service.
This year’s dinner program, held at Van Abel’s of Hollandtown, featured actor and philanthropist Jeremy Renner, known for his roles in The Avengers, The Hurt Locker, and Mayor of Kingstown. Renner, founder of the RennerVation Foundation, shared his personal story of recovery following a near-fatal snowplow accident in 2023—an experience he details in his New York Times bestselling memoir, My Next Breath. His reflections on resilience, vulnerability, and community echoed the mission of the U.S. Venture Open. The conversation was moderated by sports reporter Olivia Harlan Dekker, whose grandfather, Bob Harlan, former President and CEO of the Green Bay Packers, served as the event’s very first guest of honor in 1990.
In 2007, the J. J. Keller Foundation partnered with U.S. Venture to form the Basic Needs Giving Partnership. In 2024, the Basic Needs Giving Partnership awarded $6.6 million in new grant commitments and $5.1 million in grants distributed to nonprofits throughout Northeast Wisconsin across regions in Green Bay, Fox Valley, and Oshkosh. The grantmaking match of $600,000 this year from the J. J. Keller Foundation, and $200,000 from Oshkosh Corporation, ThedaCare and the Thrivent Foundation lead this effort.
For more information visit www.usventure.com
