August 13, 2026 | By Staff

WINONA, Minn. — To celebrate America’s 250th anniversary, Winona-based manufacturer, OZ Lifting Products dedicated its July davit crane sales to supporting local veterans.

OZ Lifting donated $50 from every davit crane sold during the month of July to the Winona American Legion Post #9. Thanks to the support of customers across the globe, the campaign raised $9,650 for the local veterans in need.

The idea came from OZ Lifting Products president, Steve Napieralski, who wanted to mark the milestone in a way that would directly benefit the Winona community.

“Steve was the driving force behind this campaign,” said Ashley Blum, Marketing Manager at OZ Lifting Products. “He wanted to celebrate this milestone by giving back in a meaningful way. That’s just who he is. He wanted to keep those dollars here in Winona while helping local veterans, which made the Winona American Legion the obvious choice.”

The campaign also carried personal meaning within the company. Veterans have always been part of the OZ team, and several continue to work at the company today.

“Our veterans aren’t just employees, they’re part of the OZ family,” said Steve Napieralski, President of OZ Lifting Products. “This campaign was our way of saying thank you. The American Legion does incredible work for veterans in our community, and we’re proud to help support that mission.”

The donation will be directed to the Winona American Legion Post #9 Veterans’ Relief Fund, which provides direct emergency financial assistance to Winona County veterans facing unexpected hardships. The fund helps cover essential expenses such as utilities, rent, vehicle repairs, medical bills, food, and other critical needs. With no administrative costs, every dollar donated goes directly toward assisting local veterans, with payments made directly to service providers and vendors.

“Winona has supported our company from the very beginning,” Napieralski said. “As we celebrate America’s 250th anniversary, it felt like the right time to give back. We hope this donation helps the Veterans’ Relief Fund continue serving local veterans and families in need.”

OZ Lifting Products has called Winona home since 2004 and manufactures lifting and fall protection equipment used around the world. Supporting local organizations and investing in the community has long been an important part of the company’s approach, and the America 250 campaign is one example of that ongoing commitment.

For more information about OZ Lifting Products, visit www.ozliftingproducts.com