The S-Files

In this episode of The S-Files, we are starting a multi-episode look at how organizations have mobilized volunteers to assist the Afghan guests staying at Fort McCoy and respond to disasters here in Wisconsin. Our first episode focuses on statewide coordination efforts and how multiple organizations and agencies are working together to facilitate these volunteer efforts. We start our conversation with John Stuhlmacher from Team Rubicon, who is currently the chair of Wisconsin Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (VOAD). We next speak with Shane Goss from Wisconsin Emergency Management, who serves as the State Voluntary Agency Liaison. Listen in to learn how these groups have helped coordinate the volunteers response across the state to not only assist the Afghan guests, but also to the COVID-19 pandemic and natural disasters. You can also learn about how they have worked with Serve Wisconsin to support the creation of local VOADs to enhance this response through the Volunteer Generation Fund.

In this episode of The S-Files, we are exploring the service done by AmeriCorps members with WisCorps during a visit to Myrick Park in La Crosse. We start our conversation with Matt Brantner, WisCorps Executive Director, discussing the conservation and disaster relief projects their members complete throughout the state and how they are trying to make nature more accessible through their service. We next sit down with WisCorps AmeriCorps members Shannon Columb and Ashley Nowak, who both recently started a second AmeriCorps term as Environmental Educators. Listen in to learn how the AmeriCorps members serving with WisCorps are impacting how Wisconsinites can experience nature through the projects they have completed statewide and by providing environmental education for our youngest students and children of all ages.

In this episode of The S-Files, we are checking out the service stories of two AmeriCorps members that recently started their second term serving with the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction AmeriCorps Farm to School Program, which received the 2021 Governor’s Service Award as AmeriCorps Program of the Year.  We first sit down with Maddie Smith, serving at the Oregon School District, and then speak with David Lee Schneider, serving at the Howard Suamico School District. Listen in to learn how Farm to School AmeriCorps members provide nutrition education, manage school gardens, integrate local foods into school meals and tastings, and connect farmers and school food service directors through the recently launched Wisconsin Local Food Database.