Fitchburg is a growing city with more ethnic, economic and religious diversity than most of Wisconsin. Rather than allowing these perceived differences to divide the community, an unlikely pairing of faith leaders and city officials created a dialogue that has taken on a life of its own.
From initiating the Good Neighbors Personal Essentials Pantry and coordinating volunteer efforts at the senior center and area schools to acting as a support system during times of crisis, groups that were once simply discussing issues faced by the community are now creating relationships, branching off and finding solutions.
“The (Fitchburg Faith Network and City Leaders) as a whole has not taken action or positions. It is more of a networking place,” said Pastor Phil Haslanger of Memorial United Church of Christ.