Photo contributed by Jamie Jestadt
Wisconsin Rapids resident Jamie Jestadt, found a deeper connection to her community through involvement in the Tribune Building Project. She first learned of the Project through Kristie Rauter Egge of the Wood County Health Department when the two were working on the Get Active Campaign. This former Auburndale School District Physical Education teacher, turned stay-at-home mom has funneled her passion for physical fitness, health and youth activities into action.
“I love the diversity {present in this process}. There are so many people I haven’t seen before in the community. People sat in different spots to engage, and would separate intentionally.” Self described as shy, Jamie “loved that the project challenged me to go outside my comfort zone.”
Having missed only one meeting throughout the process, Jamie shared that she learned as much as she’s shared. In particular, she learned what it means to be more environmentally conscious in building, and was exposed to some local resources that she was not aware of before.
Maybe most valuable for Jamie, was seeing her contributions in the design renderings. “Incourage is doing what you promised… Letting residents design.” Further adding, “A larger benefit is a sense of ownership of your place. I will utilize it more, because I’ve been involved.”
Jamie volunteered to host a table at the meeting on March 10, and to help design work to further engage youth in the process. In the meantime, she and her husband Kuba will continue to enjoy raising their two children in a community they love. One of her greatest hopes is that young families utilize all the amazing opportunities that south Wood County area have to offer.
We’d love to
hear from you.