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.
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.
Tuesday, September 9, 2025 | 8:30 am - 1:30 pm
CESA 8, 223 W Park St, Gillett, WI 54124
8:30 am Registration/coffee and rolls
8:45 am Welcome and Introductions
9:15 am Local Case Studies: Gillett
- The Urban Loft development in Lena
- The downtown revitalization plan in Suring,
- Oconto County NFL Draft video series
10:15 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.
Encompass Early Education & Care
Speaker: Jayme Sellen, Executive Director, TEDCOR about the Economic Development impact of Encompass.
11:00 am Rural Livability Project: An Update
Speaker(s): Project Leaders at the University of Wisconsin College of Agricultural and Life Sciences
11:30 am Roundtable Discussions: Creating Community
12:30 pm Wrap-up & Lunch with colleagues and resource leaders
$25 registration, includes light breakfast and lunch
