Hitting the trail for neighbors in need

March 9, 2026 | Wire Staff | community, customers, energy assistance, utility assistance

Runners and walkers came out in force Saturday for the 19th annual Heat the Streets Run & Walk for Warmth.

Participants of all ages, along with some canine companions, bundled up and hit the course at Aksarben Village to support the annual fundraiser.

Omaha Public Power District and Metropolitan Utilities District host the run and walk during the winter to bring added attention to the struggle some community members face to keep their homes warm and their lights on.

‘Generosity and compassion’

The 2026 co-chairs are Mark Mendenhall, Senior Vice President and General Counsel of M.U.D., and his wife, Bridget Mendenhall, along with Amanda Bogner, OPPD Board Secretary, and her husband, Jason Bogner. 

Participants walk the trail during the 19th annual Heat the Streets Run & Walk for Warmth. Photo by Danielle Beebe

“I am honored to help lead Heat the Streets this year,” said Amanda Bogner. “Our community consistently shows up with generosity and compassion, and those contributions directly support households facing real and immediate challenges.”

Funds raised are administered by Dollar Energy Fund Inc., a registered 501(c)(3), and then split between M.U.D.’s Home Fund and OPPD’s Energy Assistance Program to provide assistance to our customers living in Burt, Cass, Colfax, Dodge, Douglas, Johnson, Nemaha, Otoe, Pawnee, Richardson, Sarpy, Saunders, and Washington counties. 

Supporting customers, neighbors

Both utilities urge any customers who are struggling with bills to call their customer service representatives and talk through their options. For OPPD, that number is 402-536-4131 in the Omaha area; outside of the metro, customers may call toll-free at 877-536-4131. M.U.D. customers should call 402-554-6666. 

Participants make their way through the Heat the Streets course. Photo by Danielle Beebe

“This event provides support to so many of our neighbors,” said Mark Mendenhall. “One hundred percent of your contribution directly helps those who need it most.”