Wisconsin Healthy Communities Summit

Organized by the Wisconsin Bike Fed and the Wisconsin Office of Outdoor Recreation, the Wisconsin Healthy Communities Summit brought together community leaders, advocates, planners, elected officials, health professionals, outdoor recreation champions, and engaged citizens from across the state for two inspiring days focused on building stronger, healthier, and more connected communities. The Summit once again demonstrated that when people from different backgrounds come together around a shared vision, meaningful progress is possible.

Hosted in Wisconsin’s Basecamp, Wausau proved to be an ideal setting for this year’s event. Surrounded by natural beauty, thriving trails, and a culture of outdoor recreation, the city served as a living example of how investments in active transportation, parks, and public spaces can improve quality of life while driving economic growth. Participants experienced firsthand the energy and momentum that communities can create when they prioritize health, accessibility, and opportunity.

Keynote Speakers and Sessions
This year’s summit featured two outstanding keynote speakers in Rebecca Rusch and Carter Lavin, and breakout sessions challenged attendees to think bigger about the future of Wisconsin communities. These inspiring voices shared practical ideas, bold leadership strategies, and personal stories about resilience, innovation, and creating lasting impact. Their messages set the tone for a summit centered on action and collaboration.

Throughout the conference, attendees explored topics that matter deeply to communities across Wisconsin. Sessions focused on trail development, bicycling and walking infrastructure, downtown revitalization, economic development, public health, youth engagement, recreation access, and policy solutions that help communities thrive. Presenters shared success stories from towns and cities of all sizes, proving that no matter the population or budget, progress is possible when there is vision and commitment.

Connections and Field Trips

One of the most valuable aspects of the Healthy Communities Summit continues to be the opportunity for connection. Leaders from different sectors were able to exchange ideas, build new partnerships, and learn from one another’s experiences. Whether in formal sessions, hallway conversations, networking breaks, or shared meals, the spirit of collaboration was evident. The summit created space for people to find allies and inspiration to bring back home.

The Friday field trips were another highlight of this year’s event. Participants had the chance to get outside and experience the assets that make the Wausau region special. From bike rides and trail tours to visits highlighting recreation, conservation, and grassroots action, these hands-on opportunities reinforced an important truth that healthy communities are best understood when you can see, feel, and experience them. All of the fiend trips showcased how outdoor amenities can strengthen local identity, attract visitors, and improve residents’ everyday lives.

People-Focused Goals

Throughout the summit was the thread of an idea that healthy communities are not created by accident. They are built intentionally through thoughtful planning, smart investments, and leaders willing to champion long-term outcomes. Whether discussing safe routes for children, accessible trails for families, vibrant downtowns for local businesses, or recreation opportunities that support physical and mental health, the message was clear. Communities that invest in people-focused infrastructure are investing in their future.

Thanks to Sponsors

We want to take a moment and thank the many sponsors, exhibitors, volunteers, speakers, and partners whose support made this event possible. Special thanks to Kafka Granite, Gary Barden Design, REI Engineering, Becher-Hoppe Associates, TOPS Inc., the Village of Rib Mountain, and Visit Wausau. Their contributions helped create a welcoming, high-quality experience for attendees and demonstrated a strong statewide commitment to this work. Events like the Healthy Communities Summit succeed because so many organizations believe in the importance of creating places where people can live well, move safely, and stay connected.

Reflection on 2026 and Looking Ahead to 2028

Now that the 2026 Wisconsin Healthy Communities Summit has come to a close, we leave grateful for everyone who attended and contributed to its success. Wausau welcomed us warmly, inspired us deeply, and reminded us what is possible when communities embrace health, connection, and opportunity.

Thank you for being part of this year’s summit. Together, we are building a healthier Wisconsin one community at a time. We look forward to seeing you again, and hearing about all your successes, when we see you next time in 2028.

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Enjoy select pics from the 2026 Summit with thanks to Gary Barden Design!
(Check back again later for an album with more photos from the event!)