SSM Health is investing in the health and well-being of local youth through a $5,000 community health gift to REACH Waupun. The funding will support REACH Waupun’s efforts to reduce barriers that prevent children and families from accessing resources, educational opportunities, and healthy activities.
REACH Waupun serves more than 430 youth annually through programs that address social determinants of health and improve outcomes for children and families in the Waupun area.
The gift is part of SSM Health’s ongoing commitment to improving community health and supporting organizations that address local needs.
“Community health is about more than medical care – it’s about ensuring children and families have access to the resources they need to thrive,” according to Laura Nakielski, SSM Health Community Health manager. “REACH Waupun has a proven track record of removing barriers for youth and creating opportunities that support physical, emotional, and social well-being. We are proud to partner with an organization that is making such a meaningful impact in the lives of local families.”
Founded in 2015, REACH Waupun provides a variety of programs designed to help youth overcome obstacles and achieve success. Its initiatives include assistance with sports and activity fees, transportation needs, school supplies, food insecurity, mentoring programs, and emergency support for families facing difficult circumstances.
Last year, the organization helped hundreds of children through programs that included gas cards for medical appointments, eyeglasses, winter apparel, hygiene products and school lunch assistance.
The gift will help REACH Waupun continue providing critical support to children and families while addressing needs such as access to healthy activities, transportation, school-related expenses and other challenges that can affect a child’s health and ability to learn.
“We are incredibly grateful to SSM Health for this generous support,” says Jayne Harmsen, REACH Waupun executive director. “This funding will help us continue serving youth and families who are facing challenges that can impact their health, education and overall well-being. By investing in local children, SSM Health is helping create opportunities for brighter futures and stronger communities.”
REACH Waupun’s mission is to reduce obstacles, increase resources and improve outcomes for youth and families. The organization’s programs focus on addressing barriers that can limit opportunities, helping children stay active, succeed in school and access essential resources.
Through its Community Health gift program, SSM Health supports initiatives that address identified community health needs and improve quality of life across the communities it serves.
REACH Waupun students help celebrate an SSM Health community health gift to support the organization’s efforts to reduce barriers that prevent children and families from accessing resources, educational opportunities, and healthy activities. They were joined by SSM Health team members (left to right) Tara Rhodes and Laura Nakielski, as they present a check to Jayne Harmsen (center), REACH Waupun executive director.
Date posted: August 6, 2026