by GCDC | Jun 3, 2024 | Programs
Green County Development Corporation (GCDC) opened the doors to the first project house of the Home Construction Cooperative to celebrate and give recognition to the hard work and support of all involved. In addition to the donation of the home by SSM Health Monroe, GCDC received grant funds and additional donations from local banks, businesses and private donors to provide over $140,000 in support of the program.
The program, which began with the 2023/2024 school year brought Monroe High School, Skilled Building Trades LAUNCH students together to gain in-demand, home renovation and construction skills. With only one hour per day several days per week, students, teachers, and specialty contractors updated and transformed a home donated by SSM Health Monroe.
Students completed bathroom and kitchen demolition and worked alongside local contractors and instructors to learn HVAC, electrical, plumbing, carpentry, masonry and landscaping. The home features new, energy efficient windows and exterior doors, updated plumbing and electric service, new central air unit, and a fully renovated bathroom.
The newly renovated kitchen was designed by students, and includes a small pantry, island, and new appliances. A new patio door and deck were added to open the kitchen space to the outdoors. New vinyl flooring, refinished hardwoods, light fixtures, and accents, along with fresh paint throughout complete the inside.
Additional work included drywall in the garage, freshly poured sidewalk and driveway, new shutters, and exterior lighting, along with landscape clean up and fresh planting. Local contractors provided instruction to teach the students other trades like electrical, plumbing, landscaping, and HVAC.
As students gave tours, attendees noted the “pride in the voices of the students as they explained what they did throughout the school year to transform the home.” GCDC’s Olivia Otte reflected on the community effort that made this project possible, and thanked the donors, attendees, teachers, and students for making the Home Construction Cooperative a huge success.
The home, located on 5th Street in Monroe, will be listed for sale in the coming weeks. All proceeds from the sale will be put back into the program to support next year’s new build planned on a vacant parcel donated by the City of Monroe. Program goals include expansion throughout Green County. Inquiries and interest in donating or being a part of the Home Construction Cooperative can be directed to GCDC.
Many thanks go out to the many donors and supporters of the program: SSM Health Monroe, School District of Monroe, Community Foundation of Southern Wisconsin, Inc, Wisconsin Housing and Economic Development Authority (WHEDA), Alliant Energy, The Bank of New Glarus, Woodford State Bank, First Community Credit Union, Green Bay Packer Foundation, Monona Plumbing And Fire Protection Inc, First National Bank and Trust (Monroe, WI), CGSchmidt, Schlect Family Foundation, Builders FirstSource, Prosperity Southwest, Duxstad McDaniel Law Group, SC, Summit Credit Union, Greenwoods State Bank, Buehler Interiors, Kundert Construction , Monroe Morning Optimists, Marine Credit Union, Veridian Homes, Maz Electric, First Weber Realtors- Jeff Twitty Conway, Monroe Lions Club, Father Campions Champions, Monroe Kiwanis, WI, Monson Septic Pumping & Portable Restrooms LLC, Monroe Excellence in Education, Santos Concrete, Josh D Landscaping & Design, The Garden Spot, Green County Master Gardeners Association, Dane’s Lemonade Stand!
GCDC, a nonprofit Public/Private Partnership organization exists to encourage economic development while maintaining the quality of life that makes Green County a great place to live and work. Contact information can be found at www.greencountydevelopment.com.
by GCDC | Jun 3, 2024 | Events
Monroe to host Southwest Wisconsin Creative Economy Summit
Bringing creativity together with economics fosters innovation and prosperity that are vital to sustainable economic growth. A creative economy includes arts and culture, and extends beyond to entertainment, architecture, advertising, technology and more.
On June 19th, Create Wisconsin will team-up with Prosperity Southwest, Lafayette County Economic Development Corporation and Green County Development Corporation (GCDC) to host the Southwest Wisconsin Creative Economy Summit.
The event will be held at the Monroe Arts Center, 1315 11th Street in Monroe from 9:00AM-12:30PM. Local leaders, entrepreneurs, artists, elected officials, non-profit and community groups, service clubs, educators and others interested in discussing creative solutions and opportunities to help our region thrive are invited to attend.
The purpose of the event is to bring together people in southwest Wisconsin who are involved in placemaking, community engagement, and economic and workforce development, to discuss the role of arts and creativity in economic vitality. By identifying current assets our communities can create economic action steps to grow opportunities for all in our communities.
To take part in this free event, please register at https://rb.gy/y2vn2i
Questions? Please call GCDC at 608-328-9452, or email [email protected]
rk. 
by GCDC | Apr 1, 2024 | News
VILLAGE OF ALBANY, WI – A proposal submitted by the Green County Development Corp. (GCDC) to beautify and create safer people-friendly spaces in downtown Albany has been selected to receive this month’s AARP Wisconsin “Small Dollar, Big Impact” grant.
AARP Wisconsin is awarding $1,000 grants each month throughout 2024 to projects across the state that are designed to make communities better places for everyone to live, work and play as they age. Judges selected this project after reviewing dozens of proposals submitted from all over the state.
Olivia Otte, Executive Director of GCDC, said the goal of the project – called the “Advance Albany Initiative” – is to ‘create a spark that allows us to build excitement and growth in the community.”
The grant will be used to buy reflective crosswalk signs, high-visibility crosswalk paint, and solar-powered LED cross walk lights. The funds will also enable the group to install new flowerpots with native plants in crosswalk islands and put small trees in sidewalk planters. Brochures and flyers about pedestrian safety will also be created and made available in the downtown library.
“By doing this, we will help to enhance the identity of the community and create a space that people want to go to,” Otte said. “This simple addition will serve as a catalyst for community engagement and social cohesion.”
The GCDC was created to serve small communities like Albany. This project, Otte explained, holds a distinctive character as it unfolds within a community characterized by its rural setting and aging population. The village, with a population of approximately 1,200 residents, exudes a sense of tight-knit community spirit.
One year ago, GCDC collaborated with community leaders to conduct first-impression tours of Albany. Key initiatives were identified, and a primary focus emerged: to enhance the downtown area by creating a more welcoming and aesthetically pleasing environment. Because of this community involvement, GCDC has collaborated with the Albany Chamber of Commerce to pursue grants and local donations to turn this vision into reality.
The group used the AARP Walk Audit Toolkit and the AARP Creating Community Gardens resource to help in their planning. “These invaluable tools played a crucial role in helping us refine our focus and identify the top priorities within our community improvement project. By leveraging these toolkits, we gained a clear understanding of the specific areas that required immediate attention and improvements,” Otte said.
Furthermore, she said, “both toolkits facilitated the development of a sustainability plan for our project. Collaborating with community groups and organizations not only diversified our resources but also fostered a sense of shared responsibility and collective ownership for the project’s ongoing success.”
Otte said the AARP grant money will help contribute to the creation of excitement and energy throughout the village.
“We deeply appreciate the AARP grant that GCDC has received, which will contribute significantly to enhancing Albany’s downtown area through beautification and safety initiatives,” she said. “This support not only aligns with Albany’s goals but also generates positive momentum, benefiting both local residents and visitors alike.”
Darrin Wasniewski, Associate State Director of Community Outreach for AARP Wisconsin, said, “We are pleased to see how Green County Development Corp. and the Village of Albany utilized AARP’s Walk Audit Toolkit and Creating Community Gardens in planning this pedestrian safety improvement.
“Older adults are disproportionately affected in traffic crashes involving pedestrians leading to serious injuries or death. We applaud all those involved for focusing on the safety of people walking as they work to create a Livable Community for all ages and all abilities,” Wasniewski said.
AARP Wisconsin’s launched its “Small Dollar, Big Impact” grant program in 2020 and is now in its fifth year of helping proposed projects move forward in rural and urban parts of the state. For more information, visit www.aarp.org/WIsdbi
###
AARP is a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization, with a membership of more than 37 million, that helps people turn their goals and dreams into real possibilities, strengthens communities and fights for the issues that matter most to families such as healthcare, employment security and retirement planning. We advocate for consumers in the marketplace by selecting products and services of high quality and value to carry the AARP name as well as help our members obtain discounts on a wide range of products, travel, and services. A trusted source for lifestyle tips, news and educational information, AARP produces AARP The Magazine, the world’s largest circulation magazine; AARP Bulletin; www. aarp.org; AARP TV & Radio; AARP Books; and AARP VIVA, a bilingual news source. AARP does not endorse candidates for public office or make contributions to political campaigns or candidates. The AARP Foundation is an affiliated charity that provides security, protection, and empowerment to older persons in need with support from thousands of volunteers, donors, and sponsors. AARP has staffed offices in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Learn more at www.aarp.org.
by GCDC | Mar 28, 2024 | Events
GCDC Announces Annual Award Recipients
With record breaking attendance, Green County Development Corporation (GCDC) held their Annual Dinner & Awards on Thursday, March 21st at Turner Hall in Monroe. Attendees celebrated outstanding community and business leaders and included a presentation from Keynote speaker Missy Hughes from Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation.
GCDC Executive Director, Olivia Otte welcomed over 200 people, revisited accomplishments of 2023, and recognized the 18 nominees from the three award categories. Otte also shared her vision for 2024, noting that Green County is what opportunity looks like!
Awards presentations followed for Outstanding Large and Small Business of the Year, Entrepreneurial Spirit Award, and the Richard B. Schmied Leadership Award. The Outstanding Business of the Year, recognizes existing businesses that have demonstrated outstanding commitment to the county’s economic growth through innovation, job creation, new investment, and/or extraordinary long-time interest in supporting other business.
The Outstanding Large Business of the Year was presented to Precision Drive & Control (PDC). PDC, a 100% employee-owned company based in Monroe was recognized for its commitment to Green County through business reach, employee growth and participation in local events. PDC has also recently been recognized by trade groups earning varied distinguished awards and recognition, representing the pride of the PDC employee-owners.
The Outstanding Small Business of the Year was presented to Dirty Dog Taphaus owners Leah Hansen-Kube and Keith Kube. The New Glarus business was recognized for making significant contributions to the economic growth and vibrancy of Green County through their innovative approach, dedication to the community, and commitment to excellence.
The Entrepreneurial Spirit Award honors an entrepreneur who leads the way for the business, demonstrating a growth mindset, a strong work ethic, a willingness to learn and find solutions to challenges, and a hunger for opportunity. This year’s award was presented to Joey and Jordyn VanMatre. The VanMatre’s were identified as exemplifying the true definition of entrepreneur by taking risks and giving back to their community. Together they own TruHome/Bath Planet, Sweet Serendipity, Smokin’ Joes’s, Iron Haus, Cheese Country Rentals, and Safe & Sound Securities. Joe is also an agent with Advantage Real Estate Group. They were major donors for the Monroe Splash Pad and give donations monthly to non-profit organizations.
The Richard B. Schmied Leadership Award commemorates Richard B. Schmied, a former New Glarus resident and business owner, remembered for the characteristics of selfless leadership he exhibited, and exemplifies the character of a true leader. This year’s recipient was presented to Chad Kundert of Kundert Construction. Chad was nominated for his commitment to the success and well-being of his customers, employees, and company. His leadership style is characterized by empathy, mentorship, and a genuine interest in the professional and personal growth of each team member. In addition, Chad actively engages in initiatives that benefit the community, demonstrating a sense of responsibility beyond the bottom line.
GCDC is proud to recognize all nominees (see below) and honor the commitment and dedication it takes to run a successful business and give back to their communities. The mission of GCDC is to promote and encourage economic growth while maintaining the quality of life that makes Green County, Wisconsin a great place to live and work. As a non-profit organization they are building the economic future of Green County communities and businesses through public-private partnerships.
For more images of the event, visit GCDC’s Facebook or LinkedIN pages. You can find more information on GCDC online at www.greencountydevelopment.com or by contacting the office directly at (608) 328-9452 or email [email protected].
This year’s Green County Award Nominees:
The Outstanding Business of the Year Award – honors an existing business that has demonstrated outstanding commitment to the county’s economic growth through innovation, job creation, new investment, and/or extraordinary long-time interest in supporting others in business.
- Brookly Barn
- Ludlow Mansion & Events
- Main Street Music & Events, Brooklyn
- Pink Heifer Saloon & Smokehouse
- SSM Health
- Dirty Dog Taphaus
- Decatur Cheese Plant
- Precision Drive & Control
The Entrepreneurial Spirit Award – honors an entrepreneur who leads the way for their business, demonstrating a growth mindset, a strong work ethic, a willingness to learn and find solutions to challenges, and a hunger for opportunity.
- Tess Palmer, Trouvaille Coffee Co.
- Angie Schumacher, Full Moon Brew Bar
- Scott Mosher and Kyle Keehn, M&K Properties
- Andy and Lisa Beach, Son of a Beach Beef, LLC
- Joey and Jordyn VanMatre, TruHome and several other businesses
- Chelsea Andrews, Nuturing Tree Learning Academy
The Richard B. Schmied Leadership Award – commemorates Richard B. Schmied, remembered for the characteristics of leadership he exhibited. The winner of the award exemplifies the character of a true leader.
- Trent Henning
- Kasey Bruehlman
- Dan Wegmueller
- Chad Kundert
by GCDC | Feb 23, 2024 | Programs
GCDC grant award supports childcare efforts in Green County
Green County Development Corporation (GCDC) is proud to announce a $70,000 grant award for childcare education and capital improvement from Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation (WEDC),
The grant will support approximately 100 childcare workers and 25 childcare centers in Green County by providing incentives to join the field, enhance credentialing, and make improvements to their facilities.
“Empowering childcare providers through grants not only nurtures early childhood development but also fuels economic growth. Investing in quality childcare is an investment in our future workforce and community prosperity. At GCDC, we are excited to channel these funds into our community, promoting sustained economic growth.” Olivia Otte, GCDC Executive Director.
Childcare businesses that achieve certification, or individuals per business that earn an associate or bachelor’s degree, are eligible for a $500 bonus per business through a scholarship fund.
A stipend will be available for childcare facilities that sign-up to be part of the state’s YoungStar program at a level two, or to increase their current rating. The amount varies based on provider type and rating. YoungStar is Wisconsin’s quality rating and improvement system for childcare, giving parents and caregivers tools and information to give their kids a great start, and for parents to find quality childcare that fits their needs.
Funds are also available within this grant for childcare centers to make capital improvements aimed at enhancing ADA compliance. 2024 improvements to doorways, playgrounds, fire exits, and more are options for consideration.
An application and review process is in place for distribution of funds. To receive an application to apply for funds, or for any questions, please contact GCDC at [email protected] or call 608-328-9452.
