In the grand scheme of community success, it’s easy to get lost in vast city expansions, corporate giants, and complex economic indicators. Although each of these items is important to economic growth, I think there is something else that is actually the lifeblood of every thriving community — collaboration. At Green County Development Corporation, we strongly advocate for a collaborative mindset. We believe that working together benefits everyone. While operating independently may seem convenient, it often leads to redundancies and the inefficient use of limited resources.
That’s why, in all our endeavors, including events, programs, and initiatives, we emphasize the significance of collective impact. We make it our goal to spread the idea that collaboration strengthens each participant. At GCDC, we aim to foster a culture of sharing information, pooling resources, and offering mutual support. This approach not only minimizes duplication but also allows us to capitalize on each other’s strengths.
In Green County, we are fortunate to boast a strong network of partnerships that serve as the foundation for most, if not all of our community initiatives. These initiatives have been instrumental in shaping a more vibrant and interconnected community.
Below, I’ve outlined three different programs that are a testament to what can be accomplished through collaborative efforts. Without the support of our partners, we would never have been able to create and implement these ideas. Home Construction Cooperative
This past May, GCDC was donated a home by SSM Health Monroe! Throughout the 2023-2024 school year, Monroe High School Students have the chance to renovate the house while learning hands-on skills and being exposed to the excellent local jobs that are available through the trades sector. This program hopes to address the declining skilled trades and the limited housing availability in Monroe. To date, over 30 people and businesses have pulled together to start something BIG! Almost $75,000 has been raised in order to support this program. There are currently 17 students participating. Once this year wraps up, GCDC will sell this home. The money made off of the sale will go directly back to the program for a new project next year. There are so many pieces to this project and so much more to coordinate. We are incredibly grateful to our partners and those who donated to this project. It is our goal to grow this initiative county-wide, so stay tuned — we will keep you informed as we move along!
Small Business Series
Last spring, Green County entrepreneurs had the chance to participate in a free Small Business Series hosted by GCDC and The Bank of New Glarus, with special help from the Southwest Wisconsin Small Business Development Center (SBDC) and other guest speakers. The Small Business Series was created to help entrepreneurs kick-start the dream of owning their own business. Participants committed to once-weekly training sessions over a five-week period and gained insights into licensing their business, understanding legal considerations and financial documents, defining the customer base, marketing, and creating business plans and pitches for lenders and investors. All topics were enhanced with 1:1 meet-ups with SBDC consultants. Because of the strength of the partnership and the success of this event, this series is now going to become an annual event. Watch for more information in the next few months!
Green County Leaders
Every year, GCDC and UW-Madison Division of Extension Green County partner to host the Green County Leaders program. From August through May, participants meet one day per month. Throughout the class, students get the opportunity to grow and practice leadership skills, deepen their understanding of community issues, and expand their leadership networks. This year, we are delighted to announce a record-breaking participation, with an impressive class of 37 individuals. This not only underscores the enthusiasm surrounding the program but also shows the enduring strength within our community.
As you can see by the examples listed above, our endeavors at GCDC thrive through collaborative partnerships. We truly believe that a rising tide lifts all boats. That is why, with every event, program, and initiative we focus on, we want to emphasize the importance of collective impact and the idea that collaboration strengthens everyone involved. We believe that this allows us to strengthen individuals around us, and in turn our community.
— Olivia Otte is the Executive Director of the Green County Development Corporation (GCDC). She can be reached at Olivia@greencountydevelopment.com, or by calling 608-328-9452.
