Diversity, equity and inclusion became a proactive and intentional focus for Wisconsin Youth Company in 2020. A DEI committee was formed including staff at all levels within Wisconsin Youth Company to evaluate the organization and improve practices. One such practice included a DEI training for all summer and school year staff. Partnering with the organization LEAD — Let’s Empower, Advocate, and Do — staff attended a custom workshop titled, “The Power of Language at Wisconsin Youth Company — A Crash-Course into Allyship & Inclusion at Camp.” The goal of this workshop was to empower staff with the knowledge, skills, and confidence they need to create an inclusive camp community.
Wisconsin Youth Company was able to provide 97 children tuition assistance totaling $78,307 during the 2020-2021 fiscal year. Additionally, a new position was created to support children and families who need financial support. The new Family Outreach Coordinator position plays a vital role in ensuring programs are accessible to all families. This position serves as a liaison between community partners, funding sources and families, and is the primary contact for families receiving funding and partners providing funding.
The Elver Park Neighborhood Center Food Pantry that was created at the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic grew and continued to support families with food insecurity in the Elver Park neighborhood. EPNC’s food pantry provided 8,000 meals to those in need and served more than 115 individuals through weekly food pantry service.
