SSM Health is investing in the health and well-being of local families through a $7,500 community health gift to the Children’s Museum of Fond du Lac, supporting year-round programs that encourage healthy lifestyles, early childhood development and family connections.

The funding will help sustain the museum’s Garden Club, Baby Networking and Screen Free Week initiatives, programs designed to address community health needs through education, physical activity and mental wellness. These programs are part of a longstanding partnership between SSM Health and the Children’s Museum of Fond du Lac that began in 2008 and focuses on promoting family health and wellness.

The supported programs address several priorities identified in community health assessments, including nutrition, physical health, mental health and early brain development. Garden Club provides hands-on gardening experiences that teach children about healthy foods and outdoor activity, while Baby Networking connects new parents and caregivers with resources that support healthy child development. Screen Free Week encourages families to reduce entertainment screen time and engage in active, meaningful experiences together.

“Supporting the health of our communities means investing in organizations that help children and families build healthy habits from an early age,” according to Laura Nakielski, SSM Health Community Health manager. “The Children’s Museum of Fond du Lac creates opportunities for learning, connection and wellness in ways that are engaging and accessible for families. We are proud to continue our partnership and support programs that promote physical, mental and emotional well-being for children and caregivers alike.”

The Children’s Museum of Fond du Lac serves 60,000 individuals annually across Fond du Lac County and neighboring communities, providing educational experiences focused on social, emotional, physical, and intellectual development. More than one-third of the museum’s 900 member families are low-income, underscoring the organization’s commitment to making programs accessible to all families.

“This partnership with SSM Health helps us provide experiences that support healthy development while bringing families together through learning and play,” according to Andrea Welsch, Children’s Museum of Fond du Lac chief executive officer. “Whether children are growing vegetables in Garden Club, families are building connections through Baby Networking, or parents and kids are participating in Screen Free Week activities, these programs create meaningful opportunities to strengthen physical health, mental wellness and community connections. We are grateful for SSM Health’s continued investment in local families.”

Together, SSM Health and the Children’s Museum of Fond du Lac are helping create a healthier future by providing programs that encourage lifelong healthy habits, strengthen family relationships and support the overall well-being of children in the community.

SSM Health leaders Shane Smith and Bill Boyd present a $7,500 community health gift to Andrea Welsch, Children’s Museum of Fond du Lac chief executive officer, supporting year-round programs that encourage healthy lifestyles, early childhood development and family connections.

Date posted: July 28, 2026