NAOMI brings congregations of many traditions together to build community, develop leaders, and take action on the root causes of poverty, oppression, and injustice.
NAOMI stands for North central Area congregations Organized to Make an Impact. Formed in 2010, we are an interfaith network based in Wausau that works with congregations, community partners, and public officials to change the systems that keep people in poverty.
We deliver a message of hope, healing, and unity as an interfaith community, across the lines that so often divide us, and we build relationships within and beyond our own congregations.
We train and empower everyday people of faith to understand injustice where they live and to respond to it locally, at the state level, and nationally.
We address the root causes of poverty, oppression, and injustice, not only their symptoms, so that our communities become strong and just for generations to come.
Immigrant and refugee families in Marathon County face mandatory immigration hearings hundreds of miles away in Milwaukee, Minneapolis, or Chicago. Missing a hearing can mean a removal order, detention, or family separation. Safe Passage pairs trained, background checked volunteer drivers with families who need to get there, and provides emergency help with rent, utilities, and food when a crisis hits.
Right now, an anonymous donor is matching every gift to Safe Passage dollar for dollar, up to $10,000. The campaign runs October 1 through December 31, 2026.
Learn more and giveBeyond Safe Passage, NAOMI supports community events across the Wausau area, including the Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration, National Transit Day, Madison Action Day, Earth Day, Wausau Pride, Juneteenth, the Community Cultures Festival, Trunk or Treat, and our own annual picnic honoring community organizations. See our events.
NAOMI is one of twelve affiliates of WISDOM, a statewide network of faith based organizations committed to just change that brings health and stability for the second, third, and seventh generations to come. WISDOM is in turn part of the Gamaliel national network.
NAOMI governs itself and sets its own local priorities while partnering with WISDOM on statewide issues, including Madison Action Day at the State Capitol every other spring.
NAOMI works with elected officials of every party and endorses no candidates or parties. Our loyalty is to the people of our communities and to the values our faith traditions share.
Individuals and congregations can covenant with NAOMI's mission. Come to a meeting, join a task force, or bring NAOMI to your faith community.
Get involved →Drivers, coordinators, and helping hands are always welcome. Training and background checks are provided.
Volunteer →Your gift supports Safe Passage and NAOMI's organizing work. Gifts to Safe Passage are matched dollar for dollar through December 31, 2026.
Donate →