WayForward Resources in the news

WayForward Resources Executive Director Ellen Carlson wrote a guest column published the day before Thanksgiving in the Wisconsin State Journal that addresses the dramatic increase in need food pantries in Dane County are seeing and how the community can help.

“Visits to our food pantry, which serves all of Dane County, have more than tripled since January 2022. We are now distributing the equivalent of 125,000 meals each month,” Carlson wrote.

Carlson shared that the demand shows now sign of going away and that experts point to pandemic-era support, general inflation and the steep increase in housing costs that cause people to focus even more of their income on paying rent.

“We have never turned anyone away, but we have had to put some limits on the amount of food people can take,” Carlson wrote. “We worry about how we and other local food pantries can continue to ensure that everyone in our community has access to nutritious food.”

In addition Carlson addresses the misconception is that food pantries operate mainly with state or federal support. She notes that only a small amount of food comes in through the federal Emergency Food Assistance Program. WayForward stocks its shelves by relying on a complex web of systems and collaborations. That includes strategic partnerships with Second Harvest Foodbank of Southern Wisconsin, surplus from local grocery and convenience stores, as well as monetary and food donations from businesses, foundations, churches and individuals.

“Food pantries need your support now more than ever. Donations of money, food and your time can all make an immediate difference,” she wrote, adding that she wants people in our community to know food pantries will be there to prove a safety net.

“We must come together to make sure food pantries can continue to keep our neighbors from experiencing hunger,” she wrote.

This month, Isthmus covered the increased demand on area food pantries and WayForward Strategic Engagement Director Leslie Huber was quoted about how Madison’s highest-in-the-nation rent increases are also pushing some to need help with food too. Huber said some seeking assistance report $100 to $200 increases as their leases are renewed. “That hundred or two hundred is a game changer,” she told Isthmus. “When people are putting more and more income into staying in their home, there’s very little left for food.”

WayForward Board member Dane Monogue, Superintendent of Middleton-Cross Plains Area School District, was interviewed by WKOW 27 about the growing need in our community for a story the station broadcast about WayForward’s annual Holiday Art Market.

“It’s a wonderful way for us to promote what WayForward Resources does as an organization … at a time where we’ve seen unprecedented need,” she said.

One Community Bank Hosts Annual Free Community Event: Badger Tailgate

December 4, 2023
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact:
Ameilia Abraham
One Community Bank
608-838-3141
aabraham@onecommunity.bank

One Community Bank Hosts Annual Free Community Event: Badger Tailgate

(December 2023) – One Community Bank is proud to serve our clients, support our colleagues and invest in our communities. OCB held its third Annual Badger Tailgate at its Waunakee location on Saturday, October 21. There was an excellent turn out of clients, community members, and colleagues.

“I am thrilled to be able to host the Annual Badger Tailgate again this year. I am passionate about bringing the community together and making a difference with the money raised. Thank you to all of our sponsors who help make this event possible,” said Chris Zellner, Market President at One Community Bank Waunakee.

This family friendly event featured free fresh grilled food, grilled by Todd Schmidt – Waunakee Village Administrator, Brendan Flanagan – AVP Bank Manager, and Brian O’Handley – SVP Head of Mortgage and Consumer Lending. Bucky Badger and the UW-Madison Alumni Band kicked off the event with Badger pride. The first 100 guests received a complimentary Badger shirt from OCB. Door Prizes from Sundara Spa, Chula Vista, Pinseekers, The University Book Store, and Meffert Car Wash were given away.

Additionally, free beverages were provided by Octopi Brewing. The game was enjoyed on a jumbotron provided by Bishops Bay. And kids enjoyed painting pumpkins.

This event raised money for the Waunakee School District Student Financial Assistance Fund and The Schumacher Farm Educational Barn Project. This year One Community Bank donated $500 to each organization, the community raised $300, and Waunakee Remodeling donated $500 to the Waunakee School District Student Financial Assistance Fund.

The Student Financial Assistance Fund ensures that all students and families can participate in their school communities regardless of a family’s financial situation and ability to pay.

The Schumacher Farm Educational Barn Project raised funds for a new building on the farm. The Schumacher Farm Park offers a variety of events and workshops for all ages.

One Community Bank remains committed to investing in our communities and is proud to support these Feel Good organizations.

---

One Community Bank is one of the largest community banks in south central Wisconsin. The locally owned bank has 15 bank locations and $2.1 billion in assets. It provides both personal and business banking solutions, with an intense focus on serving clients, supporting colleagues, and investing in its communities. Five years in a row named one of Madison’s best places to work, One Community Bank serves the communities of Oregon, McFarland, Waunakee, Stoughton, Sun Prairie, Middleton, Adams, Oxford, Grand Marsh, Hillsboro, La Farge, Readstown, Wonewoc, and Union Center. Member FDIC.

MSCR Annual Pottery Sale Returns to New, Larger Location

November 28, 2023

Contact: Nicole Graper at ngraper@madison.k12.wi.us

MSCR Annual Pottery Sale Returns to New, Larger Location
Perfect for Holiday Shopping!

The Madison School & Community Recreation (MSCR) Annual Pottery Sale is back and will be held at MSCR’s newest program site – MSCR West, 7333 West Towne Way. The Pottery Sale showcases over 1,000 pieces of work from MSCR instructors, pottery students and local ceramic artists. The sale opens on Thursday, December 14 at 8 am and continues through Sunday, December 17 at 2 pm at MSCR West. The event is held in the gym to accommodate all the art creations.

Sale proceeds support the MSCR Pottery Program. Items are available at a range of price points including mugs, dishes, vases and unique gifts. MSCR is featuring artists all month on its Facebook and  Instagram @mscrmadison accounts.

“The annual pottery sale is a fantastic community event that supports local artists, MSCR pottery instructors and our pottery participants. We’re delighted to welcome customers to our new, larger, bright space at MSCR West.” said Martha Hutchinson, MSCR Adult Arts Specialist.

Pottery Sale Days & Hours:

— Thursday & Friday, December 14 & 15, 8 am to 6 pm

— Saturday, December 16, 10 am to 3 pm

— Sunday, December 17, 10 am to 2 pm

Featured artists are also donating items for a silent auction. Customers have a chance to bid throughout the sale to win their favorite piece of pottery. Winners will be announced on Saturday of the sale.

MSCR offers pottery and many art classes for all ages.  Please look for winter class options at mscr.org.

MSCR is the Madison public recreation department and offers a variety of recreation programs for all ages. MSCR was created in 1926.

For more information contact 608-204-3000 or go to mscr.org

# # #

WESLI (Wisconsin English Second Language Institute): Seeking an International Student Recruiter

WESLI is seeking an enthusiastic, self-motivated and results-driven International Student Recruiter. This a full-time position at Wisconsin ESL Institute (WESLI) and this employee will work under the direct supervision of the Co-Director of Engagement and Student Services. The International Student Recruiter will work with the Co-Director to develop, plan and implement a sales and marketing strategy for all WESLI programs targeted towards increasing enrollments in existing and new markets.

Candidates should be independent problem solvers who enjoy finding creative solutions and possess the ability to work with cultural sensitivity across language and cultural barriers. The ideal candidate will be collaborative, highly motivated, and have excellent communication skills. Excellent candidates will have experience in marketing, communications, and sales, plus an interest in international education. Previous experience working in international education is preferred but not required. We are looking for a dynamic, energetic, and highly motivated individual to deliver strong enrollment growth and excellent customer experiences.

The candidate must be comfortable with doing what is necessary to get the job done and to be prepared to work with the leadership team to determine what needs to be accomplished. We are planning to build up a successful marketing plan with the end goal of increasing student enrollment quickly and sustainably.

Resumes and Cover Letters can be sent to hannah.leduc@wesli.com. 

Job posted November 15, 2023. It will be open until filled. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis.

Great Lakes Roofing: Enhancing Employee Well-Being through Nature

In today’s work environment, where stress and burnout are common, a top priority for businesses must be prioritizing the well-being of their employees. Offering benefits that promote employee well-being can be a game-changer for a business’s employment strategy, helping retain and recruit. Increased physical health directly correlates to improved workplace production and efficiency as well. Launching a company-wide wellness program may seem like a daunting task. Still, one Wisconsin small business is leading the charge for change with a simple, yet effective program based on the State’s beloved state parks and natural resources.

The Benefits of Spending Time in Nature for Employee Well-Being

It’s true that no two employee wellness programs look the same. Some focus on perks provided through their health insurance provider; others look to healthy breakroom snacks, in-office flu shots, gym membership reimbursements, or mental health counseling. Many of these programs require employees to jump through invisible hoops or are not available to all household members, leading to lack of employee participation and wasted company resources.  

Great Lakes Roofing Corporation (GLRC) President, Chris Lampien, noted the number of outdoor enthusiasts on staff and decided to kick off 2023 with a gift that he knew all his employees would appreciate and utilize; a Wisconsin state Park Pass. Research consistently shows that spending time in nature significantly benefits mental and physical health, which makes time in the Wisconsin State Parks well spent. The serene environment and fresh air offer a much-needed break from the daily grind. “This is a wellness benefit the entire family can enjoy, which also promotes work-life balance within our company. We encourage everyone to go out and enjoy the State Parks as often as they can,” said Lampien.

To kick off their incentive and show appreciation to their hardworking staff, GLRC executives decided to capture the essence of the great outdoors by making a heartfelt video while immersed in nature. In the video, Lampien and his family enthusiastically announced that GLRC would be gifting each employee a Wisconsin State Park Pass through the Friends of Wisconsin State Parks (FWSP), a non-profit organization of volunteers who care for the state parks, forests, trails, and recreation areas. 

Encouraging the GLRC team to explore and enjoy the state parks emphasizes the importance of work-life balance. Spending time in nature can positively impact the overall well-being of the staff. This thoughtful act enhances employee morale and engagement and reinforces a strong sense of appreciation and unity within the company.

The Resources Offered by State Park Websites

State Park websites offer many resources for individuals seeking outdoor adventures. These websites often provide printable and downloadable activities, maps, and lists that can significantly enhance the experience. Whether exploring hiking trails, spotting wildlife, or discovering hidden gems within the park, these resources prove invaluable. With the convenience of having these materials accessible online, visitors can easily plan and customize their outdoor activities, ensuring a fun and engaging adventure in nature.

To layer in additional activities and promote new adventures, the FWSP promotes seasonal challenges each year involving outdoor activities like documenting plants and animals, camping, biking, photography, and more. “These challenges have been an amazing way to encourage our staff to opt outdoors more and think of new ways to get active,” said Kris Moran, marketing director at GLRC.

State Park Passes and Work-Life Balance

State Park Passes also foster team building within the organization. When employees venture out into nature together, they can bond, share experiences, and create lasting memories. Moran said, “We’ve encouraged the team to share pictures and to post them in their crew rooms and to come in and tell us their stories. We’re also very competitive at work and have had fun reporting on everyone’s progress in the FWSP challenges and seeing if we can have a member of GLRC visit each of the state parks and capture a picture as a “we were there” checklist.” Team-building activities in natural settings can enhance collaboration, communication, and trust among team members. By exploring Wisconsin’s beautiful state Parks, Great Lakes Roofing Corporation’s employees strengthened their connections, built camaraderie, and cultivated a supportive and collaborative work culture.