Layne is very interested in learning the nuts and bolts of how to lead a process like the Tribune Building Project to engage people in social change. As a community organizer, she thinks it would be wonderful to see more resident-led projects stem from the Project’s principles.

Layne is the executive director of Central Rivers Farmshed in Stevens Point, and sees many opportunities for partnership on the horizon; most directly with the Tribune’s culinary kitchen. There is also potential with the Wood County Farmers Market and more. She wants to see a thriving local food community that supports small farms and businesses in south Wood County, and is dedicated to helping make that happen.

“I have been through a lot of strategic planning processes and development trainings, but nothing left me feeling as inspired as the Tribune process,” Layne said. “There aren’t many opportunities out there where you get to sit and generate ideas with your neighbors, friends, and/or colleagues in a fun, collaborative space that encourages input from all.”

Through Farmshed, Layne is also a part of Blueprints for Tomorrow, a 25-month Incourage and USDA-supported program that is building networks, vision, and skills to lead a new regional economy based on the values of equity, opportunity and shared stewardship. As a Blueprints participant, she continues to be enlightened by the wisdom of her fellow participants, encouraged by the relationships being built, and motivated by the transformative process.

Layne loves the Tribune process and would like to see it replicated whenever communities need input from their residents. “At the end, everyone feels like they’ve contributed to something big,” she shared. “Incourage is very well-connected and willing to invest resources into innovative initiatives. They are also driven by their vision – a community that works well for all – which makes them just the right entity to inspire residents to take action and build something together.”

One of Layne’s greatest hopes for our community is for people to be open to a new way of doing things, by “being willing to put their necks out a little, take some chances, and believe in the power of many.”

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Incourage 478 E Grand Ave Wisconsin Rapids WI 54494 715.423.3863 © March 31, 2016 Established in rural Wisconsin in 1994 to serve the changing needs of the south Wood County area, Incourage has become a nationally-recognized leader in place-based philanthropy and community development. Guided by values of equity, opportunity, and shared stewardship, Incourage envisions a community that works well for all people. One physical manifestation of this vision is the Tribune, which demonstrates Incourage’s resident-centered approach to growing a strong and inclusive local economy. To learn more, visit incouragecf.org. update your preferences or unsubscribe from this list