Connecting Communities with Vital Resources in Order to Truly Thrive

Families across Milwaukee County are working to thrive — but too often, they face systemic barriers like rising housing costs, limited access to healthcare and underemployment.

That’s where Wellpoint Care Network’s new Community Connections program can help.

“We are a community outreach program focused on prevention and intervention for vulnerable families who might be navigating multiple challenges like housing instability, unemployment or lack of access to mental health care,” says Eleanor McNeil, Community Connections Supervisor. “We partner with them to support the Five Pillars of Stability — Housing, Education, Employment, Health and Caring Connections.”

The program is funded by the Wisconsin Department of Children and Families through the Connections Count Grant Program, which aims to promote trauma-informed principles to improve long-term health and socio-economic outcomes for families and children in Wisconsin.

This free, voluntary program is all about linking families to local resources.

“We help strengthen their stability and plan for the future,” adds Sarah Chojnacki, Community Connections Coordinator. “We’re building those supportive relationships through neighborhood organizations, community events and an individual focus on self-care so that families can build their capacities and resilience.”

The goal of Community Connections is simple yet important — ­help families reach their fullest potential.

“We aim to help families develop the skills and knowledge to meet their own Five Pillar needs, build long-lasting supports and strengthen their community ties,” added McNeil. “We want to see families ultimately thriving without us.”

Just a few months in, the team already has several examples of this work in action.

“Some local families come to us with needs in all Five Pillar areas,” said Chojnacki. “They might be preparing for the arrival of a new baby and need extra support, such as a bed or crib to create a safe sleep space. Through Community Connections, we can also help them apply for jobs and build confidence in the workforce, purchase other essential items for their home and growing family and build strong community connections for long-term social and emotional support.”

This example outlines the program’s individualized, one-on-one approach to success.

“We don’t just hand out referrals,” said McNeil. “We build relationships, walk alongside families and help them navigate systems that often feel overwhelming.”

“We use a Five Pillar screening tool that helps us have deep, personalized conversations with families about their strengths, needs and long-term goals,” added Chojnacki. “This allows us to tailor support early and meaningfully.”

If you are interested in learning more about the Community Connections program and how it may be able to help you and your family, click here.