Voices from the Valley: A podcast of the Community Foundation for the Fox Valley Region

Many young people lack basic financial literacy skills, such as budgeting, saving, investing, and the importance of making informed financial decisions. Junior Achievement of Wisconsin teaches these life skills and so much more: The 100-year-old organization prepares students for the workforce by teaching them essential employability skills, such as teamwork, communication, problem-solving, and critical thinking, along with entrepreneurship to help address the challenge of economic stagnation in our Fox Valley communities and beyond. Today we visit "JA BizTown," a town square model with storefronts and well-known businesses in our community. Many volunteers and supporters built the Community First Career Exploration and Financial Literacy Center on the Fox Valley Tech campus in Appleton, and it's a magical place where young people can imagine themselves in a career that they not only love, but can be equipped with the skills they need to flourish! Resources and links at: https://www.cffoxvalley.org/podcast/building-tomorrows-leaders/

Did you know that drug and alcohol-related deaths in Wisconsin have tripled over the last 15 years? In this episode, we are talking about addiction and recovery. How big of a problem is addiction in our area, what’s being done already, and what are some of the barriers to finding the help people need? We are well familiar with Wisconsin’s reputation for being the drunkest state in the nation, where we have 1.3 times higher alcohol consumption rates than the national average. That’s according to the Wisconsin Department of Health Services. Wisconsin ranks 24th in the number of drug deaths in the U.S. And just in Winnebago County alone, deaths from drug overdoses have more than doubled over the past two years, with many other Wisconsin counties reporting similar significant increases. With this reality in mind, we want to share some hope and some resources in these show notes for anyone struggling with drug or alcohol addiction, or anyone interested in supporting the nonprofits who are working hard to make recovery possible, many of which have received generous support from Community Foundation donors. Scroll down to explore the many nonprofit resources available to help. Listen: bios Resources: Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)SAMHSA’s National HelplineWaupaca Recovery CoalitionApricityGenesis ClubHelios HeuristicsImpact WIMission of Hope HouseProject Wishope WaupacaShawano Menominee Resiliency CoalitionUnity Recovery ServicesTreatment Atlas Iris PlaceFindTReatment.Gov 2022 National Survey on Drug Use and HealthDose of Reality: Wisconsin Opioid Data Eliminating Stigma: Understanding Empathy More at https://www.cffoxvalley.org/podcast/hope-for-addiction-recovery/

How does one preserve the stories and history of a rural town like Chilton? Today we're visiting the Chilton Public Library, where staff members are unveiling the untold tales that shape the community's identity, through modern technology. A $4,947 grant from the Chilton Area Community Foundation, our regional affiliate partner, allowed the library to purchase podcasting equipment to record and produce the oral stories of local residents, artists, historians, business owners and more. The fledgeling podcast is called Sharing Our Stories, "Each episode of Sharing Our Stories is a journey into the personal, heartfelt, and extraordinary stories that define our town. From cherished memories to pivotal moments, we explore the threads that bind us and make our community a home," says Rebbecca Barry, the library's assistant director. In this episode, we visit the Franzen Family Farm, and we hear about The Lasting Impact of Boy Scouts.

What happens when we uncover lost stories and tell them in new ways? And how might shared experiences, between people who are different from one another, bring us closer together? In February 2023 during Black History Month, over 1,000 people in the Fox Valley area had the chance to view the film and participate in conversations with the filmmaker Joanne as part a Northeast WI premiere tour. In this very special episode we’re going to take you back to a story that happened over 50 years ago. It's the story of an exchange of Black and White high school students in Wisconsin in 1966, right in the middle of the Civil Rights Movement. Black students from Rufus King High School in Milwaukee switched places with White students from Kaukauna High School during a time of heightened racial tensions in our country, and on the wave of big changes. The young people lived in each others' homes, attended classes in each others' schools and took what they learned to the stage, performing Martin Duberman’s groundbreaking play called “In White America” in both cities. Today a new generation of high school students are re-living that era in a project called, “The Exchange In White America: Kaukauna & King 50 Years Later.” It's all thanks to journalist and filmmaker Joanne Williams, who had been a student at Rufus King when the exchange took place. She wondered about what happened to the students in the exchange and what their lives were like now and was inspired to embark on a 6-year journey to create a documentary film, which involved a revival of the play 50 years later by high school students in Milwaukee and Kaukauna. Here is the link to watch it anywhere there is a PBS station. In Milwaukee, it will premier at 10 p.m. on Feb. 14 on Channel 10 WMVT. It will also be shown on the WORLD Channel on PBS at 6 p.m. and 11 p.m. on Feb. 7. It will be shown on PBS Wisconsin on Feb. 19. Visit https://www.cffoxvalley.org/podcast/reflecting-on-kaukauna-and-king/ for links and videos.

Who doesn't need help funding their dreams? For students pursuing post-high school education, the Community Foundation will award more than $1.7 million in scholarships in 2024 to students from more than 70 high schools. We offer scholarships to high school seniors, college and nontraditional students, and K-12 art and music camps and lessons. It's all possible through the generosity of our donors, who set up scholarships for many different reasons, like remembering a loved one or paying tribute to their alma mater. We have more than 200 of these funds, making us one of the largest scholarship providers in our region. In this episode, we explore how students can get started making their dreams come true! All our notes and links are here: https://www.cffoxvalley.org/podcast/scholarships-making-futures-bright/

Today we’re tackling the big topic of transportation in the Valley. The needs, the gaps and the dreams we have for improving public transit, roads, and our vast network of trails. What do we mean when we say "Transportation," and which entities are paving the way for our future Resources and links in our show notes at: https://www.cffoxvalley.org/podcast/pathways-of-progress-fox-valleys-transportation-terrain/ ‎ Your host: Amy Spreeman

What podcasts do you like to listen to? You have so many choices these days, and we are grateful that you've chosen to add Voices from the Valley to your playlist! We’ve had a lot of fun and we’ve learned so much from the people in our community who’ve helped us create more than 50 episodes. When it comes to our podcast, which has only been around since fall of 2021, some favorites are emerging. We looked at our listenership analytics to see what you are downloading. As a special treat today, we thought we’d share just a little appetizer from our top 8 episodes so far. Listen to the full episodes at https://www.cffoxvalley.org/podcast/big-voices-your-favorite-episodes/

In an age of rapid technological advancement and ever-changing demographics, libraries are evolving to become more than just repositories of books – and audio – and video. These days libraries offer a treasure trove of cool things that and vibrant spaces where you can explore, learn, and DO so many interesting things. Imagine having access to cutting-edge technology for everyone. Right now in the Fox Valley you can find libraries with everything from 3D printers to virtual reality equipment, from flight simulators to video recording studios. In this episode, we visit several libraries in the Fox Valley to find things that might surprise you. And then later, plans are in the works for new library spaces and expansions that will offer even more interesting things for you to try! Show links here: https://www.cffoxvalley.org/loop/2023/12/14/beyond-books-exploring-the-hidden-treasures-of-your-local-library/

Today we're excited to highlight an episode from Appleton Engaged, a compelling podcast from the City of Appleton. Much like Voices from the Valley, which is dedicated to amplifying diverse voices within our communities, the Appleton Engaged podcast lifts up the individuals, organizations, and resources that contribute to making our community an extraordinary place to reside, work, and play. And this month, hosts Andy Anaam and Timber Smith get the lowdown on everything about us, from our own Tammy Geenen, Vice President of Community Engagement. Enjoy! Show notes here: https://www.cffoxvalley.org/podcast/engaging-perspectives-helping-the-fox-valley-flourish/

Sharing stories in the news and lifting up the voices of people in our community really lends itself to making the Fox Valley feel like home. The Community Foundation for the Fox Valley Region and the Greater Green Bay Community Foundation have been engaged in a major effort to support the work of local newsrooms to bring issues of importance in our region to the forefront through storytelling, and it’s called the NEW News Lab. The News Lab was launched two years ago as a pilot program and local news collaboration in northeastern Wisconsin made up of six news organizations: the Green Bay Press-Gazette, Appleton Post-Crescent, FoxValley365, The Press Times, Wisconsin Public Radio and Wisconsin Watch. We teamed up with those organizations as well as The University of Wisconsin-Green Bay’s Journalism Department as an educational partner. Microsoft provided the initial support to launch the project, and since then many other supporters have stepped up to fund this important initiative. Recently, that investment and commitment to preserving local journalism was renewed, thanks to collaborative support from the community foundations, and Microsoft's partnership with the Green Bay Packers and Titletown Tech. Content produced by the NEW News Lab is shared at no cost for the purpose of increasing access and broadening awareness of community needs. These stories have been picked up by more than 125 news outlets nationwide, and have reached an estimated audience of more than 23 million people. In this episode, we feature one of our news partners, Wisconsin Public Radio, and it's Home is Here series.

Do you know how our youth are doing, as far as mental health and wellness? How can we in the Fox Valley help our teens, and prevent the things that can lead to anxiety or even a crisis? The answers are complex, and challenging. There is no doubt our teens are in crisis – with pressures our older generations can’t even imagine, because it really is a new world – and Covid made it worse. According to the latest Youth Risk Behavior Survey by the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction, we're seeing the continuation of a decade-long trend: The number of students reporting they feel “sad and hopeless” was up again, now at 34 percent statewide. Students reporting significant anxiety has increased to 52 percent. Meanwhile, 18 percent of all students surveyed seriously considered attempting suicide in the past 12 months, the highest rate since 2003. But there is some good news: Local efforts to strengthen the mental wellness of our students are beginning to have a positive impact – and that’s where our Voices from the Valley podcast episode will focus. We sat down with Wendy Harris, who coordinates a program called Healthy Teen Minds, an initiative of The N.E.W. Mental Health Connection, now called The Connection. And we visited Appleton North High School, to see how its "Sources of Strength" model, implemented at schools in several Fox Valley districts, is helping teens feel included and less isolated. More links at: https://www.cffoxvalley.org/podcast/healthy-teen-minds/

Did you know that from 2010-2018, the suicide rate in Calumet, Outagamie and Winnebago counties increased by 66 percent? And among those at greatest risk are middle-aged men, individuals in certain professions (like farming, construction and law enforcement, for example), veterans, members of BIPOC (Black, Indigenous and people of color), and LGBTQ+ community members. In response to this alarming community crisis, Northeast Wisconsin Mental Health Connection launched Project Zero, a suicide prevention initiative supported by the Community Foundation, and conducted a local 2021 Mind Your Wellness Survey, that was designed to collect population-level data on several mental health and suicide-related indicators. A total of 1,259 adults from Calumet, Outagamie and Winnebago counties took the survey during the pandemic. The Connection has just released a new report on recommendations aimed at improving adult mental health of adults in the Fox Valley. Outlined in the report, titled Mental Health & Suicide Prevention Recommendations, are more than 40 recommendations that can serve as a road map for many nonprofits, businesses and individuals to support and and advocate for new projects, strategic plans, and priorities. Go here to learn how you can impact the community. The survey results identified many risk factors that contribute to poor mental health in adults, including having an annual household income of less than $50,000, feeling isolated, spending several hours of non-work time per day on screens, and inadequate sleep. The resulting recommendations are organized into three themes: basic needs, access to care, and social connection. Show notes at https://www.cffoxvalley.org/podcast/mental-health-a-path-forward/

In an age of rapid technological advancement and ever-changing demographics, libraries are evolving to become more than just repositories of books. They have transformed into vibrant community hubs, catering to the diverse needs and interests of all residents in the Fox Valley region. Today, we’ll explore the remarkable role that libraries play in shaping our communities, fostering inclusion, and adapting to the changing times. Learning for All One of the fundamental principles driving these changes is the commitment to inclusivity. Libraries in the Fox Valley are striving to ensure that every member of the community can access their services, programs, and materials. Regardless of age, background, or interests, libraries are embracing the mission of serving all residents equally. In this episode, we visit several libraries in the Fox Valley to find out how our libraries are curating collections that represent a wide array of voices and experiences. Articles: Loop: Brillion Public Library expands its Spanish collection of books, resourcesLoop: Agency Funds Build Lasting Support for Friends of Appleton Public LibraryLoop: So many reasons to love our librariesLoop: Kimberly Public Library’s Storybook Garden: A Community VisionLoop: Legacy to help build New London’s new public library/STEM education center Appleton Ready to Read: Outreach program brings early literacy to Hmong and Hispanic familiesLibraries in Bloom: Appleton Ready to Read Learn More Appleton Public LibraryNeenah Public LibraryMenasha Public LibraryBrillion Public LibraryValley VNA Senior Care Featuring Colleen Rortvedt, Director, Appleton Public Library Your hosts: Amy Spreeman Kyle Armstrong

In this episode, we’re talking about including and empowering our neighbors and family members with differing abilities and exploring the power of inclusion in our communities through Special Olympics. Our guests today include parents, coaches, volunteers, and of course the incredible athletes who inspire us all with their determination, courage, and sportsmanship. These game-changers are flourishing through organizations like Special Olympics and SOAR Fox Cities. Special Olympics is a worldwide movement of more than 4.4 million athletes in 170 countries, where one can participate locally, but make a global impact. Eunice Kennedy Shriver, the founder of Special Olympics, organized the first International Special Olympics Games at Soldier Field in Chicago, in the belief that the lessons these athletes learned through sports would translate into new competence and success in school, in the workplace, and in the community. Today, Special Olympics Inc. is the world’s largest provider of fitness training, education and athletic competition — coupled with social, life, and leadership skill development opportunities — for children and adults with intellectual disabilities. Special Olympics Wisconsin, an accredited program of Special Olympics Inc., was founded in 1972 and is the largest sports program in Wisconsin for individuals with intellectual disabilities.

Today we’re doing an entire podcast episode about podcasts! Why do people like them so much, and how are organizations using this audio platform to tell their stories in a whole new way? And what do you need to do to start your own podcast? It’s easier than you might think! What is a podcast? It is simply an audio tool that people and organizations can use to tell their stories and inspire people to think, dream, engage and act. Unlike radio, podcasts are not live. Recorded episodes can be downloaded from a streaming service. Here are some interesting facts about podcasts: And - At least 33% of people who don’t listen to podcasts aren’t sure how to get started. Source: https://earthweb.com/podcast-statistics/ Learn more at https://www.cffoxvalley.org/Local Podcasters Lifting Our Community Community

Art truly does help shape a community in so many different ways. Performing arts in particular can provide a platform to celebrate traditions, customs, and stories, fostering a sense of identity and pride among community members. A community rich in arts can foster economic development too, and give tourists a reason to visit a venue and boost the vitality of the region. Today's episode is a second part of a 2-part series on arts making an impact in the Fox Valley. If you missed it, listen to Art Making an Impact: Part 1. We are incredibly thankful for the vibrant and diverse art programs that make our communities flourish. We hope you enjoy learning more about how art in the Fox Valley is breaking down barriers and making a difference for all! Links to Featured Art Performance Organizations Northeast Wisconsin Chinese Association Summit Players Theatre Kids from Wisconsin Fox Valley Symphony Orchestra More links: Brats, Beer & BeethovenN.E.W. Dragon Boat FestivalCreating And Sharing Joy Through ArtWaupaca Arts HubWeaving The Community Together Through ArtLocal Art ShowcaseLocal Art Woven Into The Fabric Of Community FoundationArt Making An Impact On At-Risk Youth Thanks To Generous DonorsSummer Of Service Teaches Skills Through Art

Did you know that engaging children in arts activities can teach team-building skills and provide a positive and constructive outlet and build their self-confidence? Here at the Community Foundation, we are dedicated to supporting art activities that bring our communities together and provide creative opportunities for people of all ages. Research shows arts-rich communities stimulate innovative thinking, recruit and retain residents, drive tourism and create an economic engine. But more than that, art has the ability to not only add beauty to our world, but to educate or spark new ideas we wouldn’t have had otherwise. It can inspire us to engage with people we don’t know. It even has the power to bridge the gaps between people from different cultures and languages. It truly helps us understand each other and opens doors for us to experience our common humanity in new ways. Links to our Artists Irineo MedinaBergstrom-Mahler Museum of GlassStacy Parish - Full Spirals Podcast More links: Creating And Sharing Joy Through ArtWaupaca Arts HubWeaving The Community Together Through ArtLocal Art ShowcaseLocal Art Woven Into The Fabric Of Community FoundationArt Making An Impact On At-Risk Youth Thanks To Generous DonorsSummer Of Service Teaches Skills Through Art

Finding quality childcare in Wisconsin is a challenge, with long waitlists. It's also expensive. Many parents say they are paying more than their monthly mortgage or rent to have their children cared for while they work. And for single parents, it's a difficult road to navigate. If you don’t have young children in your life, you may be thinking this topic doesn’t apply to you – but it does! Nearly nine in 10 working parents say childcare costs them time and productivity at work, which may mean more work for others or jobs that don’t get done. At the national level, according to a study from ReadyNation, the childcare crisis is costing our country $122 Billion dollars a year, because of lost earnings, productivity and taxes. For our state, in 2018, 50% of Wisconsinites, and 70% of Wisconsinites in rural areas, lived in a childcare desert, which is an area where childcare is not available, or the number of children exceeds the number of slots. Childcare providers are not babysitters. They are trained professionals. But their poverty-level wages and minimal benefits contribute to high staff turnover in many centers, which affects availability and quality of care, and is the reason why many centers unfortunately are closing their doors. Industry experts and childcare providers say finding a solution to all of this will require the efforts of government, employers and families working together. Like most complex issues facing us, there is no single solution that will address the shortage of care, centers’ high operating costs, workers’ very low wages and the exorbitant prices families pay for care. So how do we as a community invest in solutions? We’re excited to tell you that a local task force, the Greater Fox Cities Childcare Alliance, is in talks right now specifically working on the provider compensation piece of the puzzle. In this episode we hear from the Alliance's Suzanne Brault. And we'll visit Joyful Beginnings Academy in Dale, just west of Appleton, where two moms have found a childcare solution that is attracting national news attention. All the links in our Show Notes here: https://www.cffoxvalley.org/podcast/childcare-crisis/

Dental care is critical to a person's overall health, especially in children. But the pandemic and financial constraints have been barriers to families trying to access proper care, causing decreases in visits. Organizations like volunteer-driven Tri-County Dental help fill the gaps and meet thousands of students where they’re at, offering preventive care to avoid emergencies and keep students healthy and able to focus in school. It’s estimated that there are over 85,000 people in the tri-county area of Northeast Wisconsin who cannot afford even limited oral health care. And according to the Dental Association, about a third of all children in the state of Wisconsin have untreated tooth decay. The dental community wanted to do something about that. For the past two decades, volunteer dentists and dental hygienists have been offering their services free of charge through the Tri-County Community Dental Clinic. Roughly 90 dentists from throughout the area volunteer to work at Tri-County. There are paid fellowships for new dentists who recently graduated to get experience for a one-year term. There are income and insurance requirements to be eligible to go to the clinic. Co-pays for regular visits never cost more than $35. But for students who qualify for free and reduced lunch, care is completely free. Show Notes at https://www.cffoxvalley.org/podcast/healthy-smiles-for-all-23/

What is it like to learn your child has autism? And how do you find resources to give your child the best opportunities for learning and for experiencing all the joys and challenges life has in store? In this episode we take some time to consider how we think about Autism, a developmental disability that affects the way a person communicates, thinks, and interacts with others and the world around them. People with autism experience the world differently. You may have heard the term, “Autism Spectrum,” to describe the diverse range of symptoms and abilities that are unique to everyone. We visit Shawano, Wisconsin, where a non-profit called Bridge the Gap for Autism is making a huge impact. It is a nationally recognized organization that has helped hundreds of children and adults with autism through a unique approach. And we go to Black Creek Elementary in the Seymour School district, where students with Autism are using technology that is a real game-changer. More at https://www.cffoxvalley.org/podcast/understanding-autism/