The November Leadership Kenosha session offered participants an in-depth look at critical challenges facing Kenosha County and equipped them with tools to manage impactful projects in response. This engaging day combined powerful insights from local human service leaders and a hands-on workshop on project management, helping participants deepen their understanding of community issues while building skills to lead effective solutions.
Our morning session took place at the newly opened Hope Hub at the Shalom Center, a facility dedicated to providing support services for individuals and families in need. This inspiring space set the stage for a compelling discussion with Carolynn Friesch, CEO of United Way of Kenosha County, and Tamarra Coleman, Executive Director of the Shalom Center. They provided participants with a deep dive into the current social and economic challenges facing the county, from housing insecurity and food shortages to financial barriers affecting many families.
To bring these issues to life, Carolynn and Tamarra shared key data, shedding light on the scope of poverty, homelessness, and food security in our community. Participants gained insights into how these challenges intersect, creating a complex web that can be difficult to navigate. This conversation underscored the reality that for many individuals and families, everyday decisions—like choosing between rent and groceries—require sacrifices that few can imagine.
One of the session’s most impactful components was a poverty simulation exercise. Participants walked through scenarios that forced them to make hard decisions, mirroring the daily struggles of individuals facing limited resources. By stepping into these shoes, participants better understood the weight of choices many people are forced to make, even when those choices might seem simple or straightforward from the outside. This experience not only fostered empathy but also highlighted the importance of organizations like the Shalom Center and United Way, which work tirelessly to support those in need across Kenosha County.
In the afternoon, Leadership Kenosha participants turned their focus to building skills that will help them drive community impact through effective project management. Dee Ford from Gateway Technical College led this session, providing participants with a comprehensive set of tools and strategies for managing projects, regardless of scale or complexity.
Dee guided participants in clarifying what they wanted their projects to achieve and identifying clear, measurable goals. From there, they worked through the practical steps of breaking down tasks, defining roles, and setting realistic timelines. This structured approach allowed participants to see how a project can move from a big idea to actionable steps—critical knowledge for anyone leading initiatives with the potential for real community impact.
This session was a reminder of the important role that community leaders play—not only in understanding the challenges their neighbors face but in actively working to build a supportive, resilient Kenosha.
Posted on
November 7, 2024