Celebrating Progress in West Central Wisconsin

Celebrating Progress in West Central Wisconsin Main Photo

9 Jul 2021


News

Earlier this year, Momentum West recognized some of the organizations and businesses who have made tremendous progress in the past year. In a year that was full of challenges, it’s important to take a step back and recognize that that West Central Wisconsin is continuing to move forward. We invite you to join us in celebrating their success and promoting the positive growth happening within our region. 

#1 UW-Eau Claire and UW-Eau Claire Foundation - The Center for Racial and Restorative Justice

They received the Diversity and Inclusion Award, sponsored by Market & Johnson, for their work in fostering equity at the university and in all areas of society. Opened in fall of 2020, the center serves as a clearinghouse for research, scholarship, advocacy and action. Chancellor James Schmidt said, “The Center for Racial and Restorative Justice will ensure our graduates have the tools to be leaders in this ongoing social and cultural change.” 

#2 Water Street Deli and Grocery

They received the Entrepreneur of the Year, sponsored by WEDC/StartIn WCW, for their entrepreneurial spirit in taking the deli’s beloved fresh pitas and hummus and expanding to serve the greater Midwest through distribution in grocery stores. Renamed ‘Deem’, the company recently moved to Pomona Drive in Eau Claire, opening their first semi-automated factory. “The new factory allows us to achieve new goals we always hoped would be possible,” said Elaine Campbell, administrative secretary at the deli. 

#3 VES, a project by John and Jennifer McBride

The Top Project of the Year award was sponsored by Hoeft Builders and awarded to VES - A company that scientifically designs environmental systems that optimize cow health and productivity for dairies around the world. “Our relationship with John and Jennifer McBride, co-owners of VES dates back to 2014.  We met to discuss the possible expansion of their existing building. In 2019 the business had grown; added additional owners and capabilities and needed a new headquarter office, warehouse and research building.  VES choose Hoeft Builders because of our commitment to helping them through not only the building process, but the incentive process with the State of Wisconsin and through the approvals with the City and the County.  VES’s new 114,000 sf corporate office, warehouse and research and testing facility was completed in 2020,” said Hoeft Builders in a statement.

#4 Chippewa County YouthBuild

The Top Talent Initiative award was sponsored by Touchstone Energy Cooperatives of the Dairyland Power System. Chippewa County YouthBuild provides education, employment skills and career direction for at-risk young adults by involving them in the construction of a new house. When completed, the house is sold to an income-eligible family in the community. During the course of the program, the young adults gain valuable skills, perform community service, and prepare for post-secondary education and/or careers. 

#5 GMDC Virtual Spec Building and WiSys VentureHome

The Regional Collaboration Award, sponsored by RCU, went to GMDC Virtual Spec Building and WiSys VentureHome. The Greater Menomonie Wisconsin Virtual Spec Building is the result of regional groups collaborating to prepare a site for development. With the preliminary work complete, the GMDC Virtual Spec Building is ready for a business looking to grow. WiSys VentureHome, located in Eau Claire, is building a network of startup hubs across the state by connecting statewide resources with local initiatives to provide entrepreneurs access to a full menu of startup resources in their local communities. 

#6 Red Cedar Watershed

The Regional Impact Award, sponsored by Xcel Energy, went to the Red Cedar Watershed and the collaboration between community groups and residents in maintaining its health and beauty. 

Recognizing People Making an Impact

We also want to recognize the impact individuals are making in our communities. Our Regional Health Care Workers were recognized for their dedication to our community during the COVID-19 pandemic. The Above and Beyond Award, sponsored by CVTC, is our way of recognizing their sacrifice, impact and tireless efforts to our community’s health and wellness. 

Keri Schreiner, Economic Development Manager for the City of River Falls, was also recognized as the Young Professional of the Year, receiving an award sponsored by RCU

Who Do You Want to Recognize?

Help us to continue recognizing the great things happening in West Central Wisconsin. Share your news with us, leave a comment on social media and remember to nominate organizations, businesses, projects and individuals for next year’s awards.