Success Stories
Stories of Rural Resilience
Learning From Each Other
Wisconsin’s rural communities are known for their resilience and self-reliance. Pulling together to support neighbors is what we do. Here you’ll find inspiration from communities that have banded together to chart the best course forward. Ideas from rural businesses that were able to overcome challenges in innovative ways. And success stories that show just how vibrant rural life can be.
Door County Emergency Support Coalition: Help for the Homebound
When the COVID-19 pandemic left many people isolated at home, the Door County Fire Chiefs Association joined forces with local organizations to make sure that residents and guests were able to receive the information and non-emergency services they needed. The goal was to serve as a clearinghouse to answer questions, handle requests for help and connect people with sources of assistance. Nearly 30% of Door County residents are over age 65, a group considered among the most vulnerable to the COVID-19 virus.
Cuba City Presidential Plaza – Community Gathering Space
Cuba City is a thriving agricultural and business community in southwest Wisconsin, and a neighbor to Platteville and Dubuque—but one thing the city of 2,000 had lacked was a place for people to gather downtown, to visit with each other over a cup of coffee, to play cards or to hold community events.
Alliant Energy: Bringing Solar Power to Low-Income Communities
Alliant Energy wants to expand access to solar energy to help reduce its dependence on fossil fuels for generating electricity—but the cost of installing rooftop solar panels is too expensive for many residents, especially those with lower incomes, so the Madison-based utility company decided to choose a site for an array of solar panels to be erected to serve an entire community.
