Events

The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) is the nation’s largest grassroots mental health organization dedicated to building better lives for the millions of Americans affected by mental illness. For twenty-eight years, NAMI St. Croix Valley has provided free mental health support, education, and advocacy in Pierce and St. Croix Counties, yet many residents still haven’t heard of them. Michelle Hansen, the first paid Executive Director, will introduce NAMI's work and the growing need for mental health resources. She’ll highlight free support groups, community education, and plans for expansion, including new groups and the first-ever NAMIWalks event in Hudson in 2027. When individuals and families don’t know where to turn, NAMI offers support, understanding, and connection.

Michelle Hansen is the Executive Director of NAMI St. Croix Valley and its first paid staff member in twenty-eight years. She previously served for two and a half years as volunteer Board President, leading efforts to strengthen the organization and establish its first staff position. Her background spans project management, mortgage finance underwriting, and professional writing. She holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology and is trained in QPR suicide prevention and COMET mental health training.

Michelle serves on the Pierce County Human Services Board, the St. Croix County Comprehensive Community Services Board, and the Restorative Services of St. Croix Valley Board. Volunteer service has included food assistance, victim advocacy, and supporting military families through Army Community Service at Camp Casey, South Korea, where she received the Army Community Services Award for Voluntary Service. Today, she leads efforts to expand free mental health education and support across Pierce and St. Croix Counties.

Invocation: Megan Boldig

Greeters: John Dusek & Steve Wilcox

Coming to the Fall Harvest Fest at Camp St. Croix? Make sure to stop by Hudson Daybreak Rotary's Chapina Bonita Stove Demonstrations, where our Club members will cook up some good food and showcase our good work.

These stoves are part of an international project our Club champions in Guatemala to reduce the number of women who cook their meals on open fires — putting them and their families in danger. Eye infections, respiratory illness, headaches, and other health problems are frequent. Open-fire cooking can shorten a person’s life by 10-15 years.

The Chapina Bonita stoves are made with 100% local Guatemalan materials: cement blocks, clay bricks, mortar, steel tops, and stove pipes. Every family is asked to pay for 50% of the cost of a stove, and the other portion is paid for through donations. Click here to learn more about the project.

Please join us for our quarterly club update.

Invocation: Dave Drewiske

Greeters: Lee Kroll & Mike Moseman

• Horse-Drawn Wagon Rides 
• Pumpkin Decorating 
• Petting Zoo 
• Games and Activities 
• Food & Treats 

Saturday, October 24, is World Polio Day. Please join us for a presentation on Rotary International's efforts to eradicate polio. We will also recognize our Students of the Month.

Invocation: Cassie Bliven

Greeters: Gar Christenson & Kristy Yaeger

Everyone is invited to join us in participating in a 1-mile event aimed at promoting awareness and raising funds for World Polio Day. Participants will walk across the Lift Bridge in Stillwater, Minnesota, starting in Lowell Park and heading to the "Welcome to Wisconsin" sign before returning to the starting point. Along the way, you will have the chance to learn more about polio and the work of Rotary.

A suggested donation of $25 to Polio Plus is encouraged. 

Please consider this time an opportunity to take action through committee meetings, fundraising, or a project. Our location will not be available during our "off" weeks so please use other locations.