A Joint Initiative Between     Heart of Wisconsin     Business & Economic Alliance and     Community Foundation of Greater     South Wood County

Home About Us B2B Club Breaking News Contact Donate Events / Programs Feedback Ideas Incubator Industry Clusters Links / Resources Progess Funds Progress Teams Public Art / Murals Publications		Breaking News April 23, 2004 - Project Needs Youths, Seniors By Deb Cleworth, Daily Tribune Staff Community Progress Initiative leaders said they will seek to involve people of all age groups in shaping the future of south Wood County and the town of Rome. Supporting local businesses is one way youths can get involved in the initiative, said Melinda McNett, a junior at Lincoln High School in Wisconsin Rapids, who attended the kick-off Thursday at the Centralia Center. She also believes young people should be ready to participate. "I think by our community hearing the voices of our youths, they'll be able to reach out to us more," said McNett, 17. "I believe early involvement can lead to extraordinary things." Kelly Lucas, president and chief executive officer of the Community Foundation of South Wood County and one of the leaders of the initiative, wants community members of all ages to get involved. "This is an opportunity for young people to really have their voices heard," Lucas said. "We want their ideas," she said. "We want them to feel they are valued and can influence the future of the community." Zach Vruwink is a sophomore at Lincoln High School and owner of Zach's Computer Building in Wisconsin Rapids. He said he intends to spread the word about the initiative as much as he can. "Everything seems to start with youth," said the 16-year-old, who has operated his computer store since July. Youths can get involved in many ways, he said, including being a voice for other young people by attending community rallies and sharing new ideas. "After all, we are the future," he said. Experience from senior citizens also can benefit the project, said others who attended the launch. Bob and Betty Zimmerman have been involved members of the community for about 27 years, and are excited about the initiative project. "We need all ages," said Betty Zimmerman, 72. "I still have some ideas from the old days." The couple said they felt the business sector needs to get involved by learning more about what the community has to offer, and be able to share that knowledge with community members and visitors. Those attending the kick-off spoke a lot about promoting a positive attitude. "Attitude is such a large thing with the youth population," Vruwink said. Tom Marshall, a guidance counselor at Lincoln High School, said students can help the program grow by speaking positively about the community. He was happy to see young people at the kickoff. Linda Vollert, 62, was pleased to see the wide range of ages represented, and said young entrepreneurship needs to be encouraged. "It sounds to me that they have quite a wonderful plan in place," she said.
		Copyright © 2004, Community Progress Initiative, South Wood County & Town of Rome