2024 Site Visit - Kickapoo Conversations

Kickapoo Conversations invites you to tour their region and learn about their local initiatives! Kickapoo Conversations is one of the regionally-based members of Wisconsin Partners, a civic-based group of community members committed to collaborating across sectors and perspectives.

We will start in Viroqua and jump on a bus, taking local highways and county roads (B, P, X, S, Y...) to Viola, La Farge, Ontario, Cashton, and Westby. There will be plenty of stops to get out for fresh air, bathroom breaks, and snacks.

Throughout the day, we will learn about:

• How a pastor worked with WECA to launch the very first Shared Services Network for child care, which has now become a national model for family-based care
• How a farmer took the lead on a multi-community flood recovery and response after catastrophic floods wiped out homes, business, and livelihoods
• How a mayor created a new commercial district in his small town
• How a mom led a campaign to build a pool in their small but thriving school
• How a small health center found creative ways to expand their services and impact in a quickly-changing demography

... and plenty more. The official agenda will be sent out by late June.

This is a group of people that doesn't take credit, even when they deserve it. They don't want the spotlight, and they often act like their accomplishments are "no big deal." These efforts are an act of love for neighbor and a love for community, a commitment to taking action, helping one another, and doing good. They get together once a month for breakfast, joining when they can and sending apologies when they can't, and share their knowledge, skills, and relationships generously.

By using the broad-based relational model, asset-based community development, and servant-based leadership as foundational tools, community members are actively engaged and empowered. These efforts have encouraged a sense of optimism, efficacy, and collective impact.

Throughout the day, there will be opportunities for one-on-one relationship building with multi-sector partners from around the state.

Your ticket fee covers the bus tour, lunch, snacks, and print materials. Please note the option for a sponsored ticket below.