Listening to physicians about what matters most to you in your work and communities is the top priority for the Wisconsin Medical Society (Society) and the Foundation. We believe a strong, supported physician workforce leads to improved health equity and access and a healthier Wisconsin for all. That’s why we’re so excited about our Around the State in 8 Districts campaign. We’re hoping to plan fun events for physicians and their families in every district in the state as an opportunity to listen to physicians and a chance for members to meet the Society’s CEO, Mike Flesher. Together, the Foundation, Society, WisMedPAC, WisMed Financial and WisMed Assure are your team, and we’re ready to act on what matters most in your district.
Around the State in 8 Districts is also a fundraising event. Through the Foundation’s annual Physician County Survey physicians recommended community organizations that are making a difference to improve health. Every dollar raised in the campaign goes directly to funding those organizations. Organizations like The Center for Suicide Awareness, which was recommended for funding by Jennifer Weibel, DO, a board-certified Family Medicine and Sports Medicine physician with Aurora Medical Center in Oshkosh.
“In the last 3 years HOPELINE, run by the Center for Suicide Awareness, has responded to 2,411 individuals and initiated 57 active rescues in Wisconsin,” stated Dr. Weibel as to why she championed this grant. “HOPELINE Responders are able to answer text messages 24/7/365 and all text messages receive a response within 2 minutes. This level of access is made possible by generous contributions such as that made by the Foundation.”
The Center for Suicide Awareness is headquartered in Kaukauna, Wisconsin. They are dedicated to preventing suicide through proactive education, training, emotional support, collaboration and intervention. The vision of the Center is compassionate, readily accessible, barrier free and sustained support for any individual or entity in need, while free of any mental health stigma.
Of the many Center programs and initiatives, bringing HOPELINE™ to all of Wisconsin and beyond, has given individuals free emotional support anytime, from anywhere by simply texting HOPELINE to 741741. They are also proactive in the fight against Veteran Suicides. Every day approximately 22 Veterans die by suicide in the U.S. Veterans and service men and women deserve our help and support. As a result, they began the “I Challenge You to 22” program with all efforts focused on getting a Challenge Coin in the hands of a Veteran who is struggling. The Challenge Coin also has the number for HOPELINE™. Today, Police Departments across Wisconsin and beyond are equipping their officers with Challenge Coins to share with any Veteran who is struggling.

Suicide is complex, and so are its solutions. Skilled training is one of the most effective prevention approaches along with real life experience. They know that education and experience are the two factors that break stigma. Training empowers someone to recognize these signs and provide life-saving support to that individual. With the right knowledge and skills many suicides can be prevented.
The Foundation is grateful to Doctor Weibel for bringing the Center for Suicide Awareness to our attention. The funds granted to this organization will have a powerful impact. Help us fund other worthwhile programs that will improve health in Wisconsin. Every dollar you give to Around the State in 8 Districts will go directly to fund a grant in your district that was championed by one of your colleagues. We have a goal to raise at least $40,000 to fund more grants this year. Every dollar you donate makes a difference.
If you have an idea for a fun event in your district or if you would like to learn more about the many ways the Foundation and Society are working together to respond to physicians workforce and community health needs, please reach out any time to foundation@wismed.org or membership@wismed.org.
Back to top