Leaving Tribune meetings, Layne Cozzolino felt ready to conquer any obstacle.
“There was so much power in the room. Even if you had differing ideas about how to achieve the objectives of the night, you all had the some outcome in mind – creating an inviting community place.”
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.”
“I believe in the positive effect of a kind word, a warm gesture, and a smile,” says Tony Perez. Read More >
The Hittner siblings learned very young that no matter your age, you can make a positive difference in your community. Read More >
"Don't give up on your hometown!" This is the sentiment of sisters Hannah & Gracie Wendels. Read More >
“There is the old saying ‘it takes a village’. If everyone would become engaged in something they may be passionate about or interested in, they would see the potential and the growth,” Tammy & Sarah Salewski share. Read More >
Joel Kuehnhold has learned how to engage people in developing a sense of pride, ownership, and resilience while making major change in our community. Read More >
As a 30-year resident of the Wisconsin Rapids area, one of Kim Kosik's greatest hopes for our community is for vibrancy to return to the downtown. Read More >
Living in Milwaukee didn't stop Mee Yang from attending Tribune meetings. Read More >
People and relationships have inspired Ethan and Val Tonn to become involved with the Tribune project and the community. Read More >
Through his engagement in the Tribune, Ben Joosten realized the deep connection that can be made when multiple generations work together. Read More >
Steve and Jeanne Grant connected with other people with similar interests through the Tribune Building Project. Read More >
Kent & Karen Kehus jumped at the chance to be a part of the Tribune Building Project... Read More >
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