Sauk County Surprises: Factory, Facts, Substance Abuse and Community Success

The Sauk County Institute of Leadership (SCIL) Class of 2024/2025 spent the day in Reedsburg, WI. The first stop was Seats, Inc., where they learned about the locally owned and managed company. Ryan Roers, CPA, Nordic Group Chief FInancial Officer and SCIL graduate opened the session. He shared the company philosophy of “We before Me”, the company culture that values experience over degrees, and an appreciation for loyalty and promotion from within. SCILsters toured the plant and learned about the redesign that has given the plant a more efficient work flow. A unique benefit to Seats employees is the onsite medical clinic that features urgent care providers, lab, x ray, chiropractic, massage and mental health providers. This allows staff to seek medical care that fits their schedule. 

The next stop was Madison College. The opening speaker was Dr. Steve Deller, UW professor of Agriculture and Applied Economics. He shared his research on migration patterns, small towns that thrive due to boomerang migration, and labor shortages. 

The first topic for the afternoon was Addiction and Substance Abuse Prevention in Sauk County. We were privileged to have a  2023 SCIL graduate share her inspiring and brave recovery story. This was followed by Dr. Cheryl Goeckermann, another past SCIL participant, give insights on the disease of addiction, treatment options, and the concept of neuroplasticity. Sara Jesse, community health manager for Sauk County Public Health, and Ben Miller, SUDS Case manager, Sauk County Diversion and Support, rounded out the panel. They shared information on ongoing projects like Narcan vending machines that dispense free Narcan nasal spray, and the Sauk County Recovery Support Network. 

Our final talk of the day was by Kurt Muchow, Community Development Consultant, who discussed 5 Characteristics of Successful Communities. He elaborated on 1) strong leadership, 2) vision and a good roadmap, 3) consensus on priorities, 4) good organizational structure and 5) be prepared, be results driven. 

It was a full day and the class left inspired.

Written by Shari Munneke and Adam Liegel