About
Lunch & Learns are virtual opportunities for employees to hear more about some of the charities in the Partners in Giving campaign that are making an impact locally, nationally, and internationally.
Each week, we featured a different topic with speakers from 2-3 different charities, selected from the hundreds of charitable options available in the campaign.
Lunch & Learns occured every Tuesday over the lunch hour during the Partners in Giving campaign. Sessions were held for 30 minutes via Microsoft Teams. Sessions were recorded and are posted below.
Previous Sessions
Education/Youth Opportunity
Explore the critical role education and youth opportunity plays in shaping the future of our community. In this session, our partner charities will share how their programs provide youth with opportunities to grow, learn, and succeed. From mentoring initiatives to educational support, discover how these agencies are empowering the next generation and breaking down barriers to ensure every child has the chance to thrive.
Session Speakers:
- Tracy Anderson – Big Brothers Big Sisters of Dane County
- Beca Borkowski – Wisconsin Association for Environmental Education
- Sarah Giovannetti – United Performing Arts Fund
Mental Wellness
Session focused on mental wellness and the importance of emotional health in our community. Local non-profits will discuss how they support individuals facing mental health challenges and promote well-being for people of all ages. From counseling services to community outreach programs, learn how these agencies are making a difference by providing the tools and resources needed to foster resilience, reduce stigma, and ensure access to mental health care.
Session Speakers:
- Taylor Reisdorf – United Way of Greater Milwaukee & Waukesha County
- Kathy Ziegert – Chrysalis
- Sarah, Giovanetti – United Performing Arts Fund
Disaster & Crisis Response
Local non-profits will share how they step in during times of crisis, offering critical support to individuals and families affected by emergencies. From natural disasters to personal crises, discover how these agencies provide rapid assistance, essential resources, and long-term recovery efforts to help communities rebuild and recover when they need it most.
Session Speakers:
- Ed Wall – United Way of Dane County
- Kathie Nettles – International Relief Teams
- Mike May and Jen Howard – Aid for African Catholic Missionaries
Environment
Focused on the efforts to protect and sustain our natural resources. Local non-profits will showcase how they are working to combat environmental challenges, promote conservation, and create healthier, more sustainable communities. Learn about initiatives ranging from habitat restoration to education on climate change, and discover how you can support efforts to safeguard the environment for future generations.
Session Speakers:
- Beca Borkowski – Wisconsin Association for Environmental Education
- Erin Smith – The Nature Conservancy
- Sara Walling – Groundswell Conservancy, Inc.
Global Health Equity
Local non-profits will discuss their efforts to bridge healthcare gaps and promote well-being across the world. Learn how these organizations are addressing critical health challenges, from combating infectious diseases to improving access to medical care in underserved communities. Discover how their work is driving lasting change by creating more equitable health outcomes for all, regardless of geography or circumstance.
Session Speakers:
- Lauren Rutledge – Americares
- Elena Deans – Doctors Without Borders
Food Insecurity
A session addressing food insecurity and its impact on individuals and families in our community. Local non-profits will share how they are working to combat hunger by providing access to nutritious food, supporting local food pantries, and addressing the root causes of food scarcity. Learn how these agencies are helping to ensure that no one goes hungry and how you can be a part of the solution to create a more food-secure future for all.
Session Speakers:
- Mike May or Jen Howard – Certified Humane
- Meagan Keeney – Feed the Children
Children & Family Services
Local non-profits will highlight how they support families and help children thrive by providing critical services such as early childhood education, family counseling, and parental resources. Learn how these organizations work to strengthen families, promote healthy child development, and create supportive environments where every child and family can succeed.
Session Speakers:
- Taylor Reisdorf – United Way of Greater Milwaukee & Waukesha County
- Rebecca Goldfinger – Reading is Fundamental, Inc.
Ending Poverty
The session is dedicated to ending poverty and breaking the cycle of economic hardship. Local non-profits will share their work in providing vital resources such as housing, job training, financial education, and access to basic needs. Discover how these organizations are empowering individuals and families to overcome poverty, build self-sufficiency, and create pathways to a more stable and prosperous future.