Chamber Blog Archives | Page 7 of 9 | Greater Green Bay Chamber

National Volunteer Week

The Volunteer Center of Brown County

Happy National Volunteer Week! Established in 1974, this week recognizes the impact of volunteer service and the power of volunteers. The Greater Green Bay Chamber is fortunate to have many groups of volunteers that dedicate their time and talents to making our programs great. We are excited to feature these individuals in a special blog miniseries published this week. Today, learn more about The Volunteer Center of Brown County and how you can get connected in the community.

Tell us about The Volunteer Center of Brown County. What is your mission?

The Volunteer Center of Brown County builds a stronger community through volunteerism. We believe the strength of a community is directly related to its volunteers. Each year, we match thousands of volunteers with hundreds of local nonprofit partners to best utilize time and talent. The Volunteer Center is creating a stronger community by engaging volunteers to support nonprofit partners.

What types of volunteers do you support?

We support all types of volunteers! Anyone who is interested in volunteering we work to ensure they are matched with a legitimate 501-C3 nonprofit organization in need of volunteers.

What types of volunteer opportunities can people find through The Volunteer Center of Brown County?

We have hundreds of opportunities between our Facebook page and monthly newsletter, The Volunteer Times, weekly newsletter, Volunteer Connect, and our Get Connected online platform. Anything from helping children with their reading through our Reading Coaches program, to stocking local food pantries to cleaning up trash in our communities. If you have a skill or interest, we can help you get connected with someone who needs it!

How do you connect volunteers with opportunities?

Leanne, our RSVP (Retired Seniors Volunteer Program) Director, meets with volunteers 55+ to discuss their interests and works with her nonprofit partners to make sure interests are fulfilled and needs are met.

Jessie, our Community Development & Special Events Director, works with all the rest of the volunteer community, to ensure both volunteers and nonprofit organizations are happy with their placements.

What events does The Volunteer Center of Brown County host?

Our most recent event was just yesterday! (Thursday, April 25^th) The 2024 WPS Volunteer Awards was held at the Lambeau Field Atrium, we honored more than 700 volunteers. We have 8 categories; United Healthcare Youth Volunteer Award, Georgia-Pacific Adult Volunteer Award, The George Kress Foundation Volunteer in Education Award, Constellation Volunteer Leadership Award, Schreiber Heart of Gold Lifetime Achievement Award, Community First Credit Union Arts and Culture Volunteer Award, Festival Foods Small Group Award and the Green Bay Packers Give Back Large Group Award. All of the nominees are so deserving, and we are happy to honor them all!

Our next event is our Annual Golf Outing, this year it’s Friday, July 19^th at Royal Scot Golf Course in New Franken.

In September we hold our annual Volunteer Expo, location and date to be determined.

And finally, we have Rake Up Green Bay that runs from October to November, where we work with folks needing help with simple raking to match them with groups that need the raking done.

All information can be found on our website or by getting in touch with me, Jessie at jessie@volunteergb.org.

What impact does volunteering have on the community? Why is it important?

There is so much impact volunteering has for community! Volunteers are the catalyst for community engagement. Increased community engagement leads to a more active community, where people work to address challenges and create positive change. Not to mention the mental, physical and, sometimes, spiritual benefits of volunteering.

What is the best way for people to connect with The Volunteer Center of Brown County?

You can check our website: www.VolunteerGB.org or stop in to the Volunteer Center located at 984 9^th Street in Green Bay.

We’re here 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m., Monday through Thursday, or give us as call at (920)429-9445.

National Volunteer Week

Leadership Green Bay

Happy National Volunteer Week! Established in 1974, this week recognizes the impact of volunteer service and the power of volunteers. The Greater Green Bay Chamber is fortunate to have many groups of volunteers that dedicate their time and talents to making our programs great. We are excited to feature these individuals in a special blog miniseries published this week. Today, learn more about Leadership Green Bay and the volunteer projects completed through the program that have transformed our community.

A long-standing program established in 1985, Leadership Green Bay convenes a cohort of professionals from a cross section of industries. In the last 40 years, 1,602 community leaders have come together to complete 199 projects in Greater Green Bay. Here’s a look down Legacy Lane at a few of those projects.

Operation Facelift – Class of 1987

In a joint effort with Neighborhood Housing Service of Green Bay a massive volunteer effort involving homeowners, individuals, organizations and area businesses of general fix-up/clean-up projects in selected neighborhoods in the near west side of Green Bay.

Bay Beach Amusement Park Train Depot – Class of 1997

The team project is to facilitate the construction of a “Depot “ for the train ride attraction at Bay Beach Amusement Park. Individual sub-projects include the design development, material procurement, solicitation of construction bids, interior design (to include historical content), risk management, solicitation of funds for project expenses, solicitation of cultural interest in the enhancement of Bay Beach, and in particular, the Train Amusement.

Teen Leadership – Class of 1998

The team’s mission is to develop and implement a three-day workshop for Green Bay teens that focuses on cultivating personal, group and community leadership skills. The Greater Green Bay Chamber is preparing to celebrate the 26th class of teen leaders graduating from this program in May. Today, high school sophomores from Brown County meet once a month to learn about areas such as the history of our community, government, economic development, wellness, the environment, and much more.

Flags in Leicht Park – Class of 2006

The goal of the team project was to raise flags in the newly developed Leicht Park to celebrate the diverse ethnic groups and countries of origin that are found in Green Bay and surrounding areas today. Leicht Park is located along the west side of the Fox River in downtown Green Bay.

Lighting the Way to the Kroc – Class of 2011

The team decided to support and collaborates with the Ray and Joan Kroc Community Center. The center is a Community Center run by the Salvation Army and will benefit low income families on the east side of Green Bay. The team worked on lighting and installing cameras on the path that leads to the center for the safety of the children.

Olde North Neighborhood Community Garden – Class of 2014

In partnership with the Brown County UW-Extension office, the team is developing a vacant lot in the Olde North neighborhood of Green Bay into a community garden. This neighborhood is recognized as one of the most challenged neighborhoods in the City of Green Bay and is considered a food desert, meaning there is an extreme lack of access to healthy and affordable food within this area. The design of the garden will include raised beds, tabletop gardens, a children’s garden, pergola, walking path and fence. The team’s vision is that the garden will serve multiple needs for the neighborhood by not only providing healthy food, but also connecting neighbors together, providing educational opportunities for all age levels, especially youth, and offering tabletop gardens for individuals with disabilities.

Stage at Whitney Park – Class of 2016

Their project was a stage at Whitney Park in downtown Green Bay. Whitney Park is used for the music in the park series as well as comedic entertainment. The stage will enhance the experience for those attending the park and provide a better venue for the performers. Congratulations to the Leadership Green Bay Class of 2016 Team #1 for raising over $28,000 to get the stage accomplished.

Playground at NEW Zoo & Adventure Park – Class of 2019

Our project is to replace the preschool playground at the NEW Zoo. There is only one designated playground for preschoolers (ages 2 to 6) and it is the original playground from 1994. In addition to laughter and fun, playgrounds offer many opportunities for children to develop physical, cognitive, sensory and social skills. In its current state, the play space is very limited for children with differing abilities. We aim to offer a more inclusive environment that encourages children and their families to play together and create lasting memories of their trip to the zoo. Our goal is to create an inviting space that incorporates a sensory-rich environment that is welcoming and user-friendly to young children of all abilities to engage, learn and explore.

Chappell Elementary School Orchard – Class of 2023

Team Five partnered with New Leaf Foods to plant an orchard at Green Bay School District’s Chappell Elementary. We solicited funds from employers of various team members, and thanks to their generosity, we are able to plant 6 fruit trees with the potential to further the project at another school. This has been a rewarding project, and we look forward to seeing the orchard thrive!

Check out the full list of projects here.

National Volunteer Week

CYP Serves

Happy National Volunteer Week! Established in 1974, this week recognizes the impact of volunteer service and the power of volunteers. The Greater Green Bay Chamber is fortunate to have many groups of volunteers that dedicate their time and talents to making our programs great. We are excited to feature these individuals in a special blog miniseries published this week. Today, learn more about the volunteer program through Current Young Professionals (CYP) known as CYP Serves.

What is CYP Serves?

CYP Serves is the initiative led by the Community Partnerships Committee, to get Young Professionals out in the Greater Green Bay community in a service-oriented capacity.

Who can participate?

Anyone who is part of CYP can participate in a CYP serves event. Non members are also invited for an additional fee to many CYP events.

How does the initiative work?

The Community Partnerships Committee seeks out local service projects in the community that align well with the Current Young Professional’s goals and values and creates an easy access point to get young professionals connected through structured events.

What can participants earn for their service?

Young professionals who log their hours on the “Get Connected” platform can earn incentives for reaching 25, 50, 75, and 100 service hour milestones within the CYP fiscal year.

Which businesses offer discounts for CYP Serves?

Generous participating business reward our Young Professionals for their commitment to service in various ways including gift cards, and discounts to their establishments. Current participating businesses include Copper State Brewing, Badger State Brewing, Cupcake Couture, Dunkin’ Donuts, Graystone Alehouse, Hagemeister Park, The Bar, Pizza Ranch, Scooters Coffee and Zambaldi Beer.

What is the impact of CYP Serves? How does the initiative tie into the overall mission of CYP?

CYP Serves fosters a culture of volunteerism and service among young professionals, empowering young professionals to engage with and invest in the wellbeing of their community. Service and volunteerism are at the core of strong communities. By actively engaging in service and work, participants develop a deeper understanding of local issues and challenges, while taking an active role to help shape the future of their community.

Learn more about the CYP Serves program and how to get involved here.

National Volunteer Week

Current Young Professionals

Happy National Volunteer Week! Established in 1974, this week recognizes the impact of volunteer service and the power of volunteers. The Greater Green Bay Chamber is fortunate to have many groups of volunteers that dedicate their time and talents to making our programs great. We are excited to feature these individuals in a special blog miniseries published this week. Today, learn more about members of the Current Young Professionals (CYP) Leadership Committee.

Abby Vandenberg

Heartland Business Systems

When did you join CYP? 2019

Past & Current CYP Leadership Position(s): Vice Chair of D.E.N. Committee – 2022-2023, Chair of D.E.N. Committee – 2023-2024

Why did you decide to join CYP? Pursue a leadership position?

I joined CYP in efforts to expand my professional network as a young professional. In 2020 I decided to join a committee because I wanted the opportunity to be more involved in CYP programming, planning After 5’s have always been my favorite! Taking the next step into leadership was stepping out of my comfort zone, but I found myself really wanting to develop our programming and events, and creating opportunities for fellow young professionals to connect.

What impact has CYP had on your life personally and professionally?

I joined CYP hoping to expand my professional network, but it has given me so much more than that. I have connected with so many fellow young professionals to collaborate with, but I have also developed some very strong friendships. The relationships I have built within CYP I know will last a lifetime.

Kelsey Lutzow

New Buildings Institute

When did you join CYP? 2019

Past & Current CYP Leadership Position(s): Ambassador Committee Task Force Lead, Ambassador Committee Vice Chair, Ambassador Committee Chair, Leadership Team Vice Chair, Leadership Team Chair

Why did you decide to join CYP? Pursue a leadership position?

I joined CYP in hopes to find fulfillment in my professional career, but I found so much more. I’ve connected with a network of likeminded people across various industries, established several mentorships, and built lifelong friendships. I’ve discovered resources and support to grow as a young professional and develop as a leader. I’ve also engaged with community organizations and non-profits, and expanded my understanding of local government and policies. My CYP experience inspired me to pursue a leadership position within the organization to help other young professionals have an impactful experience.

What impact has CYP had on your life personally and professionally?

The support from CYP helped me during several career challenges and transitions. I’ve also developed life-long friendships with young professionals I’ve met through CYP – even stood up as Matron of Honor in a wedding! I’ve witnessed love stories blossom and families grow through CYP. It’s very special.

Kris Neyrinck

AmFam Group

When did you join CYP? End of 2019

Past & Current CYP Leadership Position(s): Vice Chair/Chair role for Community Partnerships Committee

Why did you decide to join CYP? Pursue a leadership position?

I initially joined CYP as a way to build connections with other local YPs in the Green Bay area outside of the workplace. Love the assortment of events offered as there is something for everyone!

What impact has CYP had on your life personally and professionally?

I have enjoyed my time attending various events and networking with young professionals. The Community Partnerships Committee has allowed me to make an impact in the community by helping to plan program events and enhance my leadership skills with taking on the chair role. Happy to have a program like this in Green Bay and grateful for the wonderful connections and experiences made!

Tom Murphy

Associated Bank

When did you join CYP? May 2021

Past & Current CYP Leadership Position(s): YPAC Vice-Chair/Chair

Why did you decide to join CYP? Pursue a leadership position?

I joined CYP to step out of my comfort zone and meet new people in the community. Taking on a committee leadership position with YPAC was a natural next step as I believe strongly in civic engagement and wanted to help engage young professionals in issues that matter in our community.

What impact has CYP had on your life personally and professionally?

I have participated in so many thoughtful and meaningful discussions with inspiring leaders and other young professionals through attending CYP events. CYP also introduced me to the Leadership Green Bay program, of which I am a graduate of the class of 2023. Expanding my network of community-minded individuals lead me to running for local office in 2023, where I now have the privilege to serve as a Trustee on the village board of Bellevue, doing my best to make informed decisions for the betterment of our community.

Parker Wolf

Breakthrough

When did you join CYP? 2021

Past & Current CYP Leadership Position(s): Ambassador, Vice Chair of Leadership

Why did you decide to join CYP? Pursue a leadership position?

I joined CYP because I believed I could help take the program to new heights… If you know me, pun intended. But in all seriousness, I wanted to help young professionals feel welcome in our community and also wanted to practice my leadership skills outside of my workplace.

What impact has CYP had on your life personally and professionally?

Through CYP, I’ve created meaningful connections with business leaders and young professionals who have become my support system within our community. These connections and the experiences I have had within CYP have made me feel not only valued, but also integral to our community—both socially and professionally. While networking can seem intimidating, my consistent practice within CYP has made it into a skill I embrace. I’m eager to help empower others to master this skill among others as well.

Jacob Brunette

Nsight/Cellcom

When did you join CYP? I went to my first CYP event in October 2022.

Past & Current CYP Leadership Position(s): Vice Chair of Ambassadors

Why did you decide to join CYP? Pursue a leadership position?

I was informed about CYP plays and that is what got me interested. I have wanted to grow professionally and take a leadership role.

What impact has CYP had on your life personally and professionally?

It has been mostly personally. I have got to meet some great people and develop my social skills. Professionally it has taught me how to be a better leader.

Danielle Freeman

Northeast Wisconsin Technical College

When did you join CYP? September 2022

Past & Current CYP Leadership Position(s): Community Partnerships Committee Member, CP Vice Chair, CP Chair starting September 2024

Why did you decide to join CYP? Pursue a leadership position?

I joined a committee originally to help me get more engrained with CYP from the beginning. I really enjoyed my time on the Community Partnerships committee and the impact that we had on engaging young professionals to with service opportunities, and decided to become Vice Chair be a stronger presence in helping our committee presence grow and continue to explore opportunities to foster a strong service connection between Current Young Professionals and our local community.

What impact has CYP had on your life personally and professionally?

Being a part of Current has been a great tool in broadening my connections within the community. This platform has provided me with invaluable opportunities to engage with both business and young professionals across various industries and get connected to the Green Bay community on a deeper level that I would have otherwise, which has been a great experience having returned to Green Bay area after 14 years away.

National Volunteer Week

Greater Green Bay Chamber Ambassadors

Happy National Volunteer Week! Established in 1974, this week recognizes the impact of volunteer service and the power of volunteers. The Greater Green Bay Chamber is fortunate to have many groups of volunteers that dedicate their time and talents to making our programs great. We are excited to feature these individuals in a special blog miniseries published this week. Today, learn more about the Greater Green Bay Chamber Ambassadors through a short Q&A with Joe Malcore, chairperson of the group, and Liz Krumwiede, 2023 Ambassador of the Year.

About the Greater Green Bay Chamber Ambassadors

Greater Green Bay Chamber Ambassadors serve as a liaison between the Chamber and its members. This volunteer role serves as a resource for both members and nonmembers, answering questions about the work of the Chamber, helping promote member businesses, networking at various events and sharing in members’ celebrations, by participating in ribbon cuttings and groundbreakings. The current 28 ambassadors from organizations across our community are an extension of the Chamber membership staff’s strategy of membership outreach and retention.

When did you become a Chamber Ambassador?

Joe: “I became an Ambassador in 2018.”

Liz: “I joined the Ambassadors in September of 2022.”

Why did you decide to become a Chamber Ambassador?

Joe: “Having been raised in a family business with a legacy spanning over a century, staying informed about new business ventures and forging connections with other local leaders and non-profit organizations in northeast Wisconsin is deeply important to me.”

Liz: “I had recently moved to Green Bay, and I wanted to get more involved in the local community. It was also an opportunity for me to share House of Hope’s mission and commitment to collaboration. I hoped to grow my personal and professional network, develop new relationships, and identify opportunities to work together. I have gotten to do all of that—and more—as an Ambassador!

What are your duties as the chairperson of the Chamber Ambassadors?

Joe: “I guide a dynamic team of over 30 local leaders, all dedicated to welcoming organizations to our business community and fostering professional growth and development through networking. My responsibilities primarily involve chairing monthly meetings, collaborating with Chamber staff on strategic initiatives in line with Ambassador objectives, and making sure our team effectively engages with both new and current Ambassador members.”

How would you describe your experience as a Chamber Ambassador?

Joe: “Serving as a Chamber Ambassador allows me to connect with local entrepreneurs, business leaders, and dedicated volunteers, all united in their commitment to make Green Bay one of the best communities to live in.”

Liz: “The main purpose of an Ambassador is to serve as a liaison between the Chamber and its members. This means reaching out to new and existing members to make sure they understand their membership benefits and encourage their active engagement with the Chamber. I really enjoy getting to see people’s passion in action and hearing the stories behind the business. It’s also rewarding and fun to help celebrate members’ accomplishments at ribbon cuttings, groundbreakings, and special events.”

What has been your favorite memory/moment as a Chamber Ambassador?

Joe: “Beyond participating in ribbon-cutting ceremonies, groundbreaking events, and a host of networking gatherings, I particularly enjoy the Annual Business Recognition Luncheon. It’s a moment of pride for those involved in small and family-owned businesses—which account for 99% of all enterprises—to witness their hard work and dedication being celebrated for excellence. The joy and satisfaction on their faces during these recognitions is something I truly treasure.”

Liz: “I was deeply honored to be named the 2023 Ambassador of the Year. I will never forget the morning when Chamber staff surprised me with the news at my office. Being an Ambassador has been a more rewarding experience than I ever would have imagined, and it’s helped me grow so much. I am grateful for the relationships I’ve developed because of the Chamber.”

What would you say to someone interested in becoming a Chamber Ambassador?

Joe: “If you’re passionate about networking with local professionals and eager for direct engagement with community leaders, this presents an excellent opportunity within the Greater Green Bay Chamber.”

Liz: “The Ambassadors are a welcoming and supportive group. If you want to showcase your organization, become a networking guru, support our community’s economic development, and have tons of fun, consider becoming an Ambassador!”

WOMEN’S HISTORY MONTH

Chiropractic Family

March is Women’s History Month, a time to recognize and reflect on the contributions of women in society. Greater Green Bay is filled with strong women making positive change in their communities and inspiring those around them as they make their mark. This month, the Greater Green Bay Chamber will publish a blog miniseries dedicated to shining a light on local women in business.

Meet Dr. Emily Radka, owner and founder of Chiropractic Family. Learn more about her business and her journey as a business owner by reading her answers to the questions below.

Tell us about your business and the services that you offer.

“I offer chiropractic services to little babies to those in their golden years and everyone in between. We make sure that everyone’s care has an individualized approach because everyone is different with a set of different needs. At Chiropractic Family, our mission is to provide compassionate and personalized chiropractic care to help you achieve optimal health and wellness. We are dedicated to educating and empowering our patients, encouraging them to take an active role in their own health. Trust, respect, and outstanding service are the pillars of our care.”

When did you decide to become a business owner and what motivated you to make that decision?

“I decided I wanted to become a business owner within the first few months of starting chiropractic school. I knew that I wanted to open a different kind of chiropractic office. Knowing that I had the potential to grow and become an integral part of the Green Bay community was so exciting. Being a chiropractor most people open up their own practices after a few years so I decided to jump into the business ownership route right away. I went to school and got my chiropractic degree and that was hard so I was up for another challenge.”

How would you describe your journey as a business owner?

“Challenging. I came from a chiropractic/medical background with almost no understanding of business ownership. I got involved with SCORE and different business mentoring groups so I would be able to navigate business ownership. I went an untraditional route and did not get a business loan so I work another job in order to make sure I am able to keep my dream alive. I love being able to work everyday at my dream job and have a space that is so welcoming to be in. I wouldn’t want it any other way. The highs and lows are all part of the process and it is so exciting the growth and potential I have.”

What has been the most rewarding part of being a business owner?

“Being able to impact the community. I love being able to make an impact on people’s well being and knowing that I am a positive part of the community brings me so much joy. It is my favorite part of knowing that I am helping someone feel better and I have a space to do that in the Green Bay community.”

What has been the most challenging part of being a business owner?

“Marketing and growth. There are chiropractors everywhere in Green Bay so being able to market myself as someone and something different in chiropractic. It has been difficult to just getting my name out there that I am here for you whenever you may find yourself in need of a chiropractor.”

What impact do you hope your work has on the community?

“I want to be a safe space for those in the community where people want to be and feel safe and heard, and most importantly cared for in a loving manner. I made my office space feel very comforting and I really wanted to stand out from a “standard” doctors office. My purpose of Chiropractic Family is “Empowering wellness, embracing family”. It is so important to me to have a family feel to my office. I want the people coming in to know they are loved and are safe here. My main goal is to provide a safe and empowering place in the health care space.”

What advice do you have for other women wanting to start a business?

“The work you are doing is so important and never to give up. There have been so many times that I was ready to throw in the towel. I remember to stay true to my vision and to push on, which has gotten me to where I am and the growth that is yet to come. There are days that are hard but don’t let your bad days outnumber the good ones.”

Check out Chiropractic Family: 677 Baeten Rd, Suite 201, Ashwaubenon, WI 54304

Website: https://chiropracticfamilygb.com/

Social Media:
Facebook: Chiropractic Family Green Bay
Instagram: @chiropractic_family_gb

WOMEN’S HISTORY MONTH

Green Bay Named #5 Small Metro in the Midwest for Women in Tech

A market study conducted and published by CoworkingCafe.com, a platform for professionals to find and book co-working spaces, names Green Bay the #5 small metro in the Midwest for women in tech. According to the study, less than one-third of workers in tech were female in 2023 even though women represented 48% of the global workforce. Researchers analyzed over 200 metros and looked at metrics including the percentage of female tech workers out of the total number of tech professionals, earnings and unemployment rates to determine the best places for women in tech to live. Those metros were ranked according to their size: large, mid-sized and small. Here are the key findings from the study that contributed to Green Bay ranking as a top community for women in tech.

29.5% of tech workers in Green Bay are female. That number went up 12.5% between 2018 and 2022.
The average annual salary of a female working in the tech industry in Green Bay is $85,882, up 67.4% between 2018 and 2022.
Green Bay boasts some of the lowest unemployment rates for females compared to similar sized metros (2.4%) and ranks as one of the most affordable communities.

“As we celebrate Women’s History Month, it’s crucial to shine a light on the remarkable women in our area leading the way in technology. One standout leader, who’s new to the Green Bay tech community, is Jen Ryan, the founder of Croux, an app that connects talent with flexible work opportunities in the hospitality and events space. Jen attended Princeton University where she earned a degree in English while playing volleyball for the university. She spent over a decade in NYC working for Goldman Sachs, made her mark on Birmingham, AL, by building businesses and creating jobs, and now resides in Green Bay. Her relentless drive to serve the hospitality and events community comes from starting her own restaurant, which motivated her to launch Croux,” said Jill Enos, TitletownTech Managing Partner. “The recent market study recognizing Green Bay among the best places for women in tech underscores the quality of talent in our community. It’s leaders like Jen, who challenge the status quo and take risks, that truly embody the spirit of innovation in the tech sector. At TitletownTech, we’re committed to supporting and amplifying leaders like Jen.”

The market study also mentioned the presence of Amazon and high-quality education at the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay’s Richard J. Resch School of Engineering as contributing factors to the high ranking.

Asian American & Pacific Islander Heritage Month

Bambu Dessert Drinks

Bambu Dessert Drinks opened its doors in July 2023. It is one of the businesses that has received support and resources from Maria Padilla, diverse small business manager at the Greater Green Bay Chamber, and their first year has brought a lot of growth. Learn more about owner, Danny Thao, and Bambu Dessert Drinks by reading his answers to the questions below.

Introduce yourself and tell us about your business.

“I’m Danny Thao. My fiancé, Nadine Lee, and I are both owners and operators of Bambu Dessert Drinks. Bambu Dessert Drinks is a smaller Asian inspired franchise that is expanding. It features all sorts of desserts drinks and desserts like Mochi ice cream, macarons, smoothies, teas, coffees and unique, fresh and authentic Che’ drinks.”

What motivated you to open your own business?

“Honestly, I no longer wanted to be caught in the rat race of the corporate world, so this opportunity highly motivated me to open my own business. I’ve also always had an entrepreneurial mindset, wanted to do something for myself and bring something new and unique to the area.”

What challenges have you faced/adversity have you overcome as a business owner?

“A ton! We’ve run into major challenges in demolition and construction, hiring an unprofessional contractor who didn’t finish our floors, and the list can go on. As much planning as I did, I still had unforeseen funds that would go into the build out, permits, licenses, small ware, etc…”

What are you the proudest of during your time as a business owner?

“That I am my own boss (even though I put in hours on end being here) and how the layout and design of the shop turned out. I am happy.”

What advice would you give to other aspiring entrepreneurs?

“To do it wholeheartedly and always remember why you want to be an entrepreneur. Be honest with yourself and your goals in the end game. You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take.”

What impacts do you want your work to have on future generations?

“That with hard work, a positive mindset and great work ethics, you can go far in life.”

Check out Bambu Dessert Drinks:

Visit their website: https://www.drinkbambu.com/

Follow their social media:

Facebook: Bambu Dessert Drinks – Green Bay
Instagram: @bambu_green_bay

Visit in-person: 424 S Military Ave, Green Bay, WI 54303

Women’s History Month

GoGirl! Life Coaching

Meet Tameika Hughes-Foote, owner and founder of GoGirl! Life Coaching. Learn more about her business and her journey as a business owner by reading her answers to the questions below.

Tell us about your business and the services that you offer.

“GoGirl! Life Coaching is a non-clinical approach to healing, restoration and rejuvenation to empower women to have faith in themselves. Today, women still struggle with insecurities living in a world where they have to face challenges of sexism, racism and economic inequality, to name a few. At GoGirl!, we equip women with the tools to power themselves with confidence, and a renewed mindset, and to find joy within them to face these adversities.”

When did you decide to become a business owner and what motivated you to make that decision?

“I have always had a passion for empowering women, with my personal life experiences from teenage parenting, domestic violence, etc. I recognized for me to overcome some of the trauma it was necessary to recognize my self-worth and deserve more. Through that, I have learned the importance of self-development. Working in the human services field for nearly 20 years has confirmed the need beyond the services given. This is when I decided to truly dive into my purpose and start my own business as a life coach, to be an addition to the holistic healing of women.”

What are the core values of your business?

“Respect: We recognize and respect women as women with their unique challenges, obstacles and strengths. Hope: We thrive on instilling hope in what may feel or look like hopeless situations. Joy: We encourage and equip women with the tools to obtain lasting joy. Courage: We prepare and support women to have the courage to face obstacles and challenges.”

How would you describe your 20-year journey as a business owner?

“My motto is ‘BeBrave, BeYou,’ and I aim to empower women to empower each other. With this is mind, I am dedicated to continuing my legacy of inspiring women to embrace their courage and authenticity. I strive to be operating a successful academy called GoGirl Academy, where women can be encouraged to be the best version of themselves and equip others to do the same.”

What has been the most rewarding part of being a business owner?

“The most rewarding part for me is two-fold: the community support, and it has been a great jump start to my confidence. It’s not often that we get the opportunity to live in our purpose. I consider it a blessing that I get to do so.”

What has been the most challenging part of being a business owner?

“Stepping out of my comfort zone and doing it while also balancing my 9-5, family and business.”

Tameika Hughes-Foote in the GoGirl Booth

What impact do you hope your work has on the community?

“I once heard the phrase, ‘Heal a woman, heal a community.’ When we focus on healing women, we’re not just addressing individuals; we’re nurturing the very core of families. Women, as mothers and nurturers, hold pivot roles within communities. If they are not well, it becomes challenge for them to ensure the well-being of others. Therefore, investing I the health and well-being of woman has a profound impact on the entire community.”

What advice do you have for other women wanting to start a business?

“Do it! If it’s truly a desire in your heart and a need in your community, then do it.”

Check out GoGirl! Life Coaching:
Website: https://www.gogirllifecoach.org/
Facebook: Go Girl Life Coaching/You Inc

Prevea Surgery Center a staple of Green Bay’s west side medical corridor

Drive along Shawano Ave. in Green Bay and its sleek, modern design is hard to miss. The Prevea Surgery Center, an ambulatory surgery center built in 2022, is a staple of the city’s west side medical corridor, nestled between the 3-story Prevea St. Mary’s Health Center and HSHS St. Mary’s Hospital Medical Center.

If you’ve received care with us at the Prevea Surgery Center, then you know who we are and what we do. If you’re just learning about us now, we get it. From announcements about new buildings, services, partnerships and more – the health care landscape is always changing, and Green Bay is no different. It can be hard to keep up, and unless you’re focused on a health care concern of your own or a loved one you may not be thinking about it at all.

What we’d love for you to know:
With 5 operating rooms, 10 procedure rooms, 8 post anesthesia care unit rooms, and 30+ surgery prep and recovery rooms, the Prevea Surgery Center can provide same-day, outpatient surgical care right here in Green Bay. It’s the first ambulatory surgery center in Green Bay to offer multiple types of specialty medical care for procedures that don’t require you to be in the hospital. Think ear tubes for little ones, colonoscopy, cataract surgery, hip and knee scopes, kidney stone removal and more.

How we got here:
The Prevea Surgery Center is a partnership between Prevea Health and Hospital Sisters Health System (HSHS), which operates two major hospitals in Green Bay: HSHS St. Vincent Hospital and HSHS St. Mary’s Hospital Medical Center. Prior to the Prevea Surgery Center, Prevea Health surgeons performed all procedures – outpatient and inpatient – within the hospitals. As the demand for surgical care in the community grew, there was a need for more space for our surgeons and more importantly, better access to surgical care for our patients. In 2022, Prevea Health and HSHS proudly opened the doors to the state-of-the-art Prevea Surgery Center!

Why it matters:
Today, more than half of all surgeries performed in the U.S. are done on an outpatient basis. Yet, there is still a critical need for hospital surgical settings for things like emergencies and complex surgeries that require a hospital stay. The existence of both the Prevea Surgery Center and the HSHS hospitals in Green Bay ensure our patients are receiving the best possible care, in the best possible location for the very best value. As Prevea Health and HSHS shift outpatient, same-day surgeries to the Prevea Surgery Center, they create more room and appointment availability for all patients in need of surgical care in our community – whether it be in the surgery center or the hospital.

How this benefits our patients:
There are three major benefits our patients experience in having access to the Prevea Surgery Center for outpatient, same-day surgeries and procedures.

Quality
Just like in hospital operating rooms, the surgeons, nurses and medical professionals at ambulatory surgery centers follow very specific protocols and procedures for the safety and well-being of patients. Likewise, regular, comprehensive assessments are conducted on the quality of care provided to patients. Prevea is also unique in that it is a health care organization led by doctors, which ensures the well-being of our patients always come first.

Cost
Did you know there is an estimated 20 to 40 percent reduction in cost for patients receiving care at ambulatory surgery centers, like the Prevea Surgery Center? This is due, in part, to the lower costs required to operate a freestanding ambulatory surgery center. This means lower out-of-pocket costs for those with high-deductible plans and up to 59% lower costs for those with commercial insurance. However, it is important to note not all ambulatory surgery centers offer this amount of cost-savings. Be sure to ask!

Convenience
A freestanding ambulatory surgery center means patients do not have to navigate complex hospital campuses and registrations. In most cases, parking is easier to navigate, appointments are easier to schedule and wait times shorter with care at an ambulatory surgery center. Also, surgery is all we do! This means we can easily identify and work to improve the process and experience for the patient.

Choosing your care
We know you have a choice when it comes to health care, and that when it is on your mind, quality, cost and convenience are part of the discussion. We’re proud of what the Prevea Surgery Center has to offer, and it is our honor to care for you. An appointment at the Prevea Surgery Center starts with a referral from your primary care provider. To find a doctor, visit www.prevea.com. Take a video tour and learn more about the Prevea Surgery Center at www.prevea.com/ASC.

Prevea Surgery Center Operating Room door

*Blog post is result of a Chamber event sponsorship package.

Category: Chamber Blog

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Prevea Surgery Center a staple of Green Bay’s west side medical corridor

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