Description

Ninety-four years ago, our founders knew family farms were worth fighting for. They gathered in solidarity to set policy that would improve life on their family farms and in their communities. We'll continue that legacy as we celebrate Wisconsin Farmers Union's 94th convention.  

You can find more information and deadlines on our WFU Convention Page here: https://www.wisconsinfarmersunion.com/convention 

Friday, December 13, 2024

Groundswell

Engaging in Respectful Dialogue:  Ethanol as a Case Study

Join us for this interactive  workshop focused on developing the key skills needed to engage in discussions on multifaceted issues like ethanol. This session aims to foster an open and respectful dialogue among members, recognizing and honoring  the diverse perspectives within our Farmers Union community. 

Talking about differences doesn’t have to be uncomfortable.  Noticing what we hold in common – our love of the land, our need to support our families, or our desire to be neighborly – creates the fertile ground on which we can have difficult conversations that honor our shared need to be accepted and respected as part of a larger community.

You’ll learn how to check out assumptions, listen to different points of view, and strive to understand (not necessarily agree with) multiple perspectives.  You’ll learn the skill of inquiry – asking questions based in genuine curiosity – a powerful tool that helps us build bridges vs. dig trenches.

The session will begin with learning these skills, followed by a facilitated dialogue on ethanol. Note:  A requirement of participation is to attend or watch a recording of a webinar featuring expert presentations that provide insight into ethanol as a renewable fuel source as well as its environmental impacts prior to the session.  (See more info below.) We also ask that you participate in the skill development before participating in the dialogue out of respect to your fellow members and to increase your success with the experience.

Whether you’re part of the farming community, civic groups, or simply looking to improve communication in everyday life, this workshop will provide you with valuable tools to engage in thoughtful discussions and meaningful dialogue around complex, nuanced topics like ethanol with greater understanding.

There will also be a webinar that will cover this topic that will take place in November. All participants of Groundswell will be asked to attend this webinar or watch the recording before Friday, December 13th. 

Registration will open at 9:30 am with brunch starting at 10 am. Programming will take place from 11am - 5pm. 

Friday Night Fundraising Dinner 

Please join us for an exciting evening which includes a live auction, light dinner, and connecting with old and new friends as we raise money for WFU Kamp Kenwood outdoor recreation spaces.  Doors open at 6:00 pm. 

Saturday, December 14, 2024
WFU Annual Convention: Workshops, Policy Discussion, and Community

Sunday, December 15, 2024

Youth Programming

This year there will be both a childcare option and youth programming at the Convention.

Childcare will be available for youth ages 7 and under. When you select that registration option it includes both Saturday and Sunday as well as all meals during those days.  Early bird registration is $60 until November 17th, then - $80. There will be age-appropriate programming including games, crafts, and activities. Snacks will be provided. Meals will not be served in the childcare room. You will need to pick up your children to join you for convention meals in the main hall.

For youth ages 7 and up there will be separate registrations for Saturday and Sunday.

• Saturday. We will be bringing back our Youth Convention for a Saturday only. Programing will allow youth to experience a convention of their own! Join us for workshops on cooperatives and more, fun games and activities, and presentations on participating in WFU as a member now and in the future. Snacks will be provided. Youth will need to be picked up to join you for convention meals in the main hall.
• Sunday. For youth 7 and up staying through December 15th, Sunday registration will include lunch and a space for supervised independent activities.

Children aged 7 can attend either childcare or the youth convention.

For additional questions about childcare and youth programming you can contact Grace Clardy at gclardy@wisconsinfarmersunion.com

Sponsors and Exhibitors

If you are interested in being a Sponsor or Exhibitor for the 94th WFU Annual State Convention, please visit our registration page.