Thursday, January 29
We had the opportunity to pause, reflect, and celebrate what happens when partners, employers, clients, and funders come together around a shared purpose.
Community Impact Day was created to honor the collective impact of our programs and services, and, most importantly, the individual journeys of the clients whose determination and resilience drive this work forward every day.
The day began with opening remarks from Director of Operations Tony Dziedzic, setting the tone for a gathering centered on collaboration, accountability, and shared success. From there, Assistant Program Coordinator Carman Taylor provided an overview of the programs and services available within this area, grounding the event in the scope and reach of the work happening across our communities.
Program Coordinator Nathan Stahl then led attendees through the heart of the day: the stories of our clients.
Clients were given the space to share how they took hold of their lives, overcame barriers, and began contributing back to their communities with the support of case managers, partners, employers, board members and funding sources who believed in their potential. These stories reflected a wide range of successes, both large and small: completing high school degrees, securing reliable transportation, accessing job assistance, finding meaningful employment, and recognizing the many connections that helped make those achievements possible.
Some clients shared their journeys in person, while others participated through video. Each story underscored the same message: lasting change happens through connection, persistence, and coordinated support. The room was engaged, reflective, and visibly moved by the courage and progress shared throughout the morning.
The event concluded with partner recognition awards presented to Marvel Browne of UW Health and Doug Rozak from Goodwill, acknowledging their continued commitment and collaboration in helping clients achieve their goals.
As Community Impact Day came to a close, attendees left feeling hopeful, heard, and inspired. Reenergized to strengthen partnerships, deepen connections, and continue the work of helping clients find high-wage employment that aligns with their dreams while building Wisconsin’s workforce.
