2026 Stories of Impact

Your gift to Community Shares of Wisconsin member nonprofits has impact. Support powerful work on the front lines of social and environmental justice.

Group of about 30 women standing in the Rotunda of the Wisconsin capitol building, taken from above.

Because of the work of the Wisconsin Fair Maps Coalition, a fiscal sponsor of Wisconsin Democracy Campaign, for the first time in a decade, the entirety of the Wisconsin Legislature will be voted on under fair maps this fall. This will lead to a more representative, responsive, and accountable government. A state government that has to answer to the people and pass policies that make our lives better.

Five people standing in a stream at a volunteer stream monitoring training.

Through their Partner Shares Program, FairShare CSA Coalition provides financial assistance to help people purchase CSA shares and get access to fresh, local food. “Not having the financial ability to purchase healthy foods during an illness was difficult. Without the program I could not afford organic vegetables which I believe help to heal and stay well. It is truly a blessing to have CSA and the Partner Shares program!”

Group of people in the woods birding.

With the bipartisan passage of 12-month Medicaid postpartum extension coverage by the Wisconsin State Assembly, new moms across our state have expanded access to care during a critical period for maternal and infant health. In March 2026, the bill was signed into law, and Wisconsin became the 49th state to extend postpartum coverage to one year. Since 2019, this issue has been a focus for several Wisconsin Women’s Network Policy Institute teams. Through research, policy analysis, and advocacy skill-building, participants have examined postpartum coverage and developed educational materials to support informed dialogue around maternal health policy. Photo by Andrea Meschisi Photography.

Group of people with ECCHO spelled out in balloons in the background, holding the Mexican, Peruvian, and Bolivian flags. The person in the center is wearing a t-shirt with the Dominican Republic's coat of arms on it.

The Black Men Coalition Foundation proudly celebrated the successful completion of its second cohort of Dane County Jail residents who have earned the Frontline Skills Certificate through its collaboration with eCornell, the external education unit of Cornell University. This milestone marks continued progress in expanding access to high-quality education and workforce pathways for justice-impacted individuals.

Two people sitting at a table with a sign that says "Eviction Diversion and Defense Partnership"

For Dorothy, staying in the home she loves meant addressing both safety and comfort. Project Home‘s Home Repair program installed windows and a new storm door to keep her home cozy and energy-efficient. To ensure she can navigate her daily routine with confidence, the Project Home team also installed a high-efficiency toilet and several grab bars, providing the stability and accessibility she needs to continue living independently. Dorothy said “Project Home has worked on several projects in my home over the last few years. Their programs are so remarkable… there is no way I can thank the entire team for what they have done for me. I am 84 years old, still living in and enjoying my home.”

Group of about 90 people standing in front of the Wisconsin capitol building, flying two transgender flags.

According to Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine, each year in the US, 10-20 million animals die from lead poisoning. But lead poisoning is 100% preventable. Sierra Club Wisconsin has launched a Get the Lead Out campaign to help eliminate poisoning from lead tackle and ammunition. A free toolkit is available that includes a step-by-step guide on how to safely dispose of lead tackle, instructions for building a collection container, and ideas for spreading awareness in your community.

Group of about 90 people standing in front of the Wisconsin capitol building, flying two transgender flags.

Josh Cornelius previously worked for 13 years in the special needs field and made the transition to early care and education to support his Tribal nation. He now manages the program located on Oneida reservation lands. While it has been an adjustment transitioning to early childhood education, it is fulfilling and enjoyable, he said. Importantly, he has relied on the expertise and insights of Wisconsin Early Childhood Association (WECA)’s Build It Strong coursework and resources, which are dedicated to improving and sustaining strong child care business practices. “The Build It Strong course has helped me tremendously – been lifesaving,” shared Cornelius. “I try to think about future generations – if I’m going to put my energy out in the world, I want to help the next generation.”