ADAMS-FRIENDSHIP, Wis. (WMTV) – In Adams-Friendship, a wave of support is lifting up three high school students recovering from a devastating crash last month.
As Ayden, Alex, and Daniel continue to heal—two now home and one still hospitalized—their community is coming together in ways that go far beyond words.
Within days of the May incident, residents began organizing donation jars, printing posters, and assembling raffle baskets. That grassroots effort quickly evolved into two major fundraisers—each aimed at easing the burden of medical expenses and reminding the families they’re not alone.
“It’s pretty humbling to see what this community can do,” said Angie Kossman, who is helping organize the relief efforts. “This was just one of those accidents. It happens—and it’s close to home.”
The first event is set for Wednesday, June 19, at McDonald’s in Adams. From 4 to 7 p.m., 10% of all sales will go directly to the families.
“These families are going to be in need,” said Ashley Schnolis, Daniel’s aunt. “Medical bills are going to be crazy. It would just be nice to see the community come together.”
On Friday, June 21, Connell’s Cedar Shack will host a benefit featuring food, raffle prizes, and donation opportunities. Organizers say donated items range from Yeti coolers and patio sets to gift cards, grills, and sports gear.
“We’re going to have 50/50s, we’re going to have food, we’re gonna have donation jars around town,” Schnolis added. “We have a bank account set up for the boys in town for anyone that is willing to drop off if they can’t make it.”
And while the donations are pouring in, so is the love—from surrounding towns and complete strangers.
“This is one of the definitive advantages of a small-town community,” said Julie Wysocky, a teacher and driver’s ed instructor who taught all three boys. “Whether it’s donating money, time, or raffle baskets—people from out of the blue are reaching out.”
Wysocky said she first learned of the crash from a parent at the gym the following morning.
“I didn’t handle it well. I lost it. I mean, I just started to cry because obviously this is severe, and the injuries were unbelievable. So, all you can do is pray.”
For many, including students at Adams-Friendship High School, the crash hit hard.
“I mean, you don’t think it’s going to happen to someone you know—until it does,” said sophomore Bella Rotar.
Bella and her classmates helped make posters to raise awareness. With help from their art teacher, they hand-cut dozens of paper burgers and fries, turning them into bright, hopeful signs posted around town.
And it’s not just Adams-Friendship showing up. Neighboring communities—including Necedah, Nekoosa, and Westfield—have contributed donations, raffle items, and support.
“It affected you somehow, you know?” Kossman added. “In such a close-knit community, everybody knows everybody.”
In addition to the two fundraising events, donations can be made directly at One Community Bank and Royal Bank, both located in Adams. Raffle baskets can still be dropped off at Main Street Mercantile, 500 Main Street in Friendship.
Support has even come from beyond the county line. Eagle Promotions & Apparel LLC in Mauston created custom ‘AFSTRONG’ T-shirts, raising over $1,300 in profits for the families.
Both fundraising events are open to the public, and every act of kindness—no matter the size—is helping three families navigate a long and difficult road ahead.
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