Description

The Greater Wausau Chamber of Commerce's Immersion Project is unlike any other program in the region. This important employee retention tool is designed to connect new employees to the community. It is an intensive eight-month program designed to provide a greater insight and perspective on the various aspects of the Greater Wausau region through: 

• Educational and behind-the-scene tours
• Interactive activities and experiences 
• Meaningful discussions
• Access to business and community leaders 

Participants will: 

• Learn about the Wausau region history and heritage and how the region is positioning itself for the future
• Understand the various aspects of government, public safety and the judicial system 
• Engage in discussion about issues that face the region and how to get involved
• Explore the many forms of education and how it is repositioning for the future 
• Learn about the importance and impact of entrepreneurship and agriculture in the region 
• Understand the important roles and impact of service organizations in the region 
• Gain a deeper understanding of what makes the region thrive and why it is a great place to live and work.

The Immersion Project Schedule:

• Session 1: Community Economic Landscape - Wednesday, January 10, 2024, Location: Greater Wausau Chamber of Commerce
• Session 2: Community Development - Wednesday, February 14, 2024, Location: Wausau Curling Club
• Session 3: Community/Social Challenges - Wednesday, March 13, 2024, Location: Community Partners Campus
• Session 4: Business + Industry - Thursday, April 18, 2024, Location: Business EXPO ****PLEASE NOTE: THIS MONTH MEETS ON A THURSDAY!
• Session 5: Education - Wednesday, May 8, 2024, Location: TBD
• Session 6: Arts, Culture + Diversity - Wednesday, June 12, 2024, Location: TBD
• Session 7: Government + Public Safety -  Wednesday, July 10, 2024, Location: TBD
• Session 8: Community Involvement - Wednesday, August 14, 2024, Location: TBD

Facilitator:

Ann Werth worked for the City of Wausau for more than 40 years, retiring from her role as the Community Development Director in 2016. She started as a draftswoman in the private sector, became a housing inspector in Wausau and worked her way to the top of the department. In 2009, Werth took over as community development director.

Werth worked on many local development projects, including the east side renewal along the Wisconsin River. She also played a critical role in assisting a group of Hmong refugees in the 1980s help form a housing cooperative.

Werth has served as the facilitator of the Chamber's Immersion Project in previous cohorts.