Community in Action: Civic Engagement

Learning By Doing: The Public Health Intern Experience

In this episode, we hear from three Greendale Public Health interns as they reflect on what makes their experience unique in our department. From hands-on opportunities to meaningful mentorship, this conversation highlights the value of learning in a supportive, community-focused environment. “I think there's that misconception that internships are mainly observation, but here at Greendale I think that's something special that everybody in this department really wants you to thrive and puts you in situations that you might not be able to get in another place if you were to go somewhere else for your internship.” (Intern Episode, 08:47) Tune in to hear how real-world public health work, guidance from staff, and immersive experiences are shaping the next generation of public health professionals.

Behind the Tap: How Safe, Clean Water Protects Our Community

In this episode of the Healthiest and Happiest Podcast, Public Health Director Ashley talks with Rod, Director of Public Works for the Village of Greendale, about the essential — and often unseen — work that keeps our drinking water safe. They explore how water moves from its source to residents’ taps, the routine maintenance and testing that protect water quality, and how Greendale’s infrastructure decisions, including never using lead service lines, support community health.  By understanding how our systems work and knowing where to turn with questions or concerns, residents play an important role in helping keep our village healthy and happy.  Learn More & Helpful Resources:  Village of Greendale Department of Public Works (DPW):  Learn more about water utilities, infrastructure projects, maintenance activities, and services provided by DPW.  *  Department of Public Works [https://www.greendale.org/departments/public_works/index.php]  * 10 Year Roads and Infrastructure Plan [https://www.greendale.org/departments/public_works/street_and_utility_capital_projects.php]  Report a Water or Infrastructure Concern:  If you notice a potential issue — such as low water pressure, suspected leaks, or water quality concerns — you can submit an online concern or service request.  * Public Works- Report a Problem [https://www.greendale.org/departments/public_works/report_a_problem.php]  Wisconsin DNR – Drinking Water Quality:  The WI DNR oversees public drinking water systems across the state and provides information on water testing, regulations, and consumer confidence reports.  * Drinking Water | Wisconsin DNR [https://dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/DrinkingWater]  Wisconsin Department of Health Services – Lead Poisoning Prevention:  Lead hides in more places than you think. You can find it in paint, soil, and even makeup. It's important to understand sources of lead and how to avoid them. Learn more about lead exposure, health impacts, prevention strategies, and resources for families, homeowners, and renters.    * Lead-Safe Wisconsin: For Families and Caregivers | Wisconsin Department of Health Services [https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/lead/families.htm]

Third Places: Essential to Creating Community

In this episode, the Greendale Public Health Strategist, Megan discusses the concept of 'third places' with the Director of the Greendale Public Library, Brian. They explore the importance of these informal community gathering spots, their characteristics, and how libraries serve as vital third places that foster social interaction and community resilience. The conversation highlights the role of libraries in providing safe spaces during challenging times and encourages listeners to find their own third places for connection and well-being.  * Welcome to the Library [https://www.greendale.org/departments/library/index.php]  * Why Third Places Are Essential to Creating Community [https://www.verywellmind.com/why-third-places-matter-8584788]  * Ray Oldenburg [https://www.pps.org/article/roldenburg]

Community in Action: Civic Engagement

What do handing out spoons, running a community fun run, and shaping local decisions all have in common? They’re all part of what makes a community truly thrive. In this episode of The Healthiest and Happiest Podcast, host Ashley is joined by Greendale's Village Manager Mike Hawes and super-volunteer Aleks Skibicki for conversation about civic engagement—aka, all the ways we show up for our community. From big-picture planning (like parks and recreation improvements) to everyday moments (like helping at an ice cream social), you’ll hear how getting involved—at any level—can boost your well-being, build meaningful connections, and create memories that last far beyond the moment. Aleks shares why sometimes the best advice is to just “jump in,” Mike explains how community voices shape real decisions, and together they remind us that you don’t need experience—just a willingness to show up (and maybe hand out a few spoons). Whether you’re ready to join a committee, volunteer at an event, or simply stay more informed, this episode will leave you feeling motivated, connected, and maybe even a little braver. Because a healthier, happier community starts with people like you. Community Resources * Our Community  [https://www.greendale.org/our_community/index.php] * Village Hall Updates: Welcome to Village of Greendale, WI [https://www.greendale.org/government/village_hall_update/index.php]  * Sign up to receive Village Hall Updates: E-mail Notification List [https://www.greendale.org/e-mail_list/index.php]  * Village Newsletters and Magazines: Welcome to Village of Greendale, WI [https://www.greendale.org/government/village_views_newsletter.php]  * Village of Greendale Facebook Page: Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/GreendaleVillageHall/]  Publications * University of Kentucky Cooperative Extension Service. (n.d.). The power of civic engagement. [https://fcs.mgcafe.uky.edu/sites/fcs.mgcafe.uky.edu/files/The%20Power%20of%20Civic%20Engagement.pdf] * University of Wisconsin Population Health Institute (2024). County Health Rankings & Roadmaps, National Findings Report 2024. 2024 CHRR National Findings Report.pdf [https://www.countyhealthrankings.org/sites/default/files/media/document/2024%20CHRR%20National%20Findings%20Report.pdf]  * Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion. (n.d.). Civic participation. Healthy People 2030. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. https://odphp.health.gov/healthypeople/priority-areas/social-determinants-health/literature-summaries/civic-participation [https://odphp.health.gov/healthypeople/priority-areas/social-determinants-health/literature-summaries/civic-participation]  * Rand Corporation. (2022). Civic engagement and health: Evidence from the United States (RR-3163). https://www.rand.org/content/dam/rand/pubs/research_reports/RR3100/RR3163/RAND_RR3163.pdf [https://www.rand.org/content/dam/rand/pubs/research_reports/RR3100/RR3163/RAND_RR3163.pdf]

Too Sick to Go?!: Talking Illness

How do you know when it's time to stay home? In this episode of the Healthiest & Happiest podcast, Public Health Nurse Cathy is joined by Greendale Schools' Nurse Practitioner to talk through common symptoms and clear "stay home" guidelines for kids and adults. They discuss fevers, vomiting, and diarrhea, lingering coughs, rashes, and the grey areas families face every day- plus why staying home when needed helps protect not just individuals, but the entire community. DPI_Too_Sick_for_School_flyer.pdf [https://dpi.wi.gov/sites/default/files/imce/sspw/pdf/DPI_Too_Sick_for_School_flyer.pdf] Childhood Communicable Diseases | Wisconsin Department of Health Services [https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/disease/childhood-communicable-diseases.htm] Nurse Practitioner Services | Greendale School District [https://www.greendaleschools.org/o/gsd/page/nurse-practitioner-services] School Nurse | Greendale School District [https://www.greendaleschools.org/o/gsd/page/school-nurse]