The 14th annual series of Small Community Forums will be held in four locations in September and October to facilitate dialogue between small communities, address common issues, network, share best practices, and identify strategies to address shared concerns. Representatives from various state and regional resource partners will be available to connect with attendees and offer guidance on specific concerns raised during the sessions.
These convenings are about sharing ideas, learning, and networking concerning the health and future of rural Wisconsin. People interested in small towns and rural Wisconsin are invited to attend, including those involved in quality-of-life issues, business, government, education, the non-profit sector, and civic and community development.
We look forward to hosting this forum at the Firehouse on September 11, honoring firemen and firewomen from around the country who responded to New York that historic day—a genuine grassroots, small-town effort.
Forum Agenda
Richland County | September 11, 2025 | 7:30 AM - 1:00 pm
Cazenovia Fire House, 303 WI Hwy 58, Cazenovia, WI
7:30 am Registration/coffee, homemade biscuits & gravy
8:00 am Welcome and Introductions
8:45 am Local Case Studies: Our local hosts will be showcasing area projects.
9:45 am Community Involved Employers: Impact on Community Development Spotlighting an exemplary area employer who is creating or investing in local community development. The discussion will include the benefits to both the employer and the community, as well as how they became involved.
Employer: Vintage Camper Restoration
10:30 am Rural Livability Project: An Update
Project Leaders at the University of Wisconsin College of Agricultural and Life Sciences
11:00 am Roundtable Discussions: Creating Community
Noon Wrap-up & Lunch with colleagues and resource leaders:
Broasted chicken & potatoes from Boston’s Bah
Who Should Attend: Civic leaders, elected officials, volunteers, business leaders, educators, and local and regional economic development associations are encouraged to participate. Case study presentations and resource discussions will focus on partnership, innovation, and workforce development, among other issues.
$25 Registration, includes coffee, rolls, and lunch
