BEACON
A Newsletter for Our Wisconsin Members
A Heartwarming Celebration of Creativity and Togetherness
Mosinee, WI
BetterLife Members - Mosinee, WI, led by Secretary Pam Thompson, hosted a heartwarming celebration with the residents of Acorn Hill Apartments in May. Pam's passion and commitment to Acorn Hill were evident in every detail, making the day memorable for all.
This year's festivities marked a special appearance by BetterLife's Board of Directors and senior leadership team, who worked behind the scenes to ensure the event's success. The collaborative effort of the two teams reflected the organization's mission of fostering joy and community.
Two new planter boxes were introduced this year, giving residents additional space for gardening. The residents were thrilled and got started planting right away. Everyone took a break together and enjoyed a delicious lunch and wonderful treats provided by Panera Bread.
Additionally, a crafting station turned out to be a hub of creativity where residents transformed plain doormats into colorful masterpieces. Bingo drew a lively crowd, and participants decided to extend the game. Other activities included hallway bowling, a movie screening, balloon volleyball, spa treatments, and nail care.
Thanks to the combined efforts and collaboration of BetterLife Members - Mosinee, WI, the BetterLife Board of Directors, and our senior leadership team, the day turned ordinary moments into extraordinary memories. Acorn Hill residents left the celebration with smiles and hearts full of gratitude for BetterLife's unwavering support.
The ever-popular game of bingo brought everyone together for fun and conversation. The event was such a hit that participants voted to extend play.
Residents, friends, BetterLife staff, and the BetterLife Board of Directors shared a memorable day of playing games, crafting, eating a delicious lunch, and gardening at Acorn Hill Apartments in Mosinee, WI.
StrawberryFest (Forever)
Saturday, June 21, was a hot and windy day. That didn’t stop BetterLife Members – Sun Prairie, WI, from hosting their 38th annual StrawberryFest at the Colonial Club senior citizen center in Sun Prairie. Attendees enjoyed family-friendly activities including face painting, balloon art, various craft vendors, Future Farmers of America Kiddie Farm, carnival games, a cash raffle, Touch-A-Truck, live music, food, drinks, and, of course, strawberries! BetterLife members and volunteers served fresh strawberries and hundreds of delectable strawberry shortcake desserts during the five-hour event. Proceeds from the activities and refreshments helped support the work BetterLife Members – Sun Prairie, WI, does with seniors in their community.
Chills and Thrills
at the Annual Member Picnic
In June, BetterLife Members – Pilsen, WI, gathered for their annual member picnic at Bay Beach Amusement Park in Green Bay, WI. Despite the chilly winds sweeping off Lake Michigan, the event brought the community together in a heartwarming celebration. Families and friends gathered with enthusiasm, sharing laughter and camaraderie. The potluck was a success, with an impressive variety of dishes and minimal leftovers — a testament to the guests' appetites, delicious food, and thoughtful planning. This year's picnic also welcomed new members, adding fresh energy and expanding the sense of community. From sharing stories to enjoying rides, the day was a joyful reminder of the strength of the BetterLife member group bonds.
BetterLife Member Group - Black River Falls, WI, and friends gather around the 1941 John Deere tractor owned by Gene
Gene
A Car Show for Dad
On Sunday, June 15, BetterLife Members – Black River Falls, WI, held their second annual Antique Tractor, Car, and Bike Show at the historic Bohemian Hall. What a fitting event for Father’s Day! Event goers relaxed on lawn chairs and blankets while mingling with fellow antique automobile enthusiasts. The event itself was free to the public and attendees had the option to add a freewill donation for food and drinks while admiring the stunning lineup of vintage vehicles. Funds raised went towards upkeep of the 88-year-old Bohemian Hall. Cash donations were also accepted. It was an all-around beautiful day to admire the classics with Dad!
BetterLife Members - Pilsen, WI, along with family and friends, gathered for their annual picnic at Bay Beach Amusement Park in Green Bay, WI. Despite the chilly winds, the day was full of great food, thrilling rides, and a strong sense of community.
Sun Prairie, WI
Black River Falls, WI
Pilsen, WI
(L to R) Volunteer Nancy Talbot, BetterLife Agent Steve Ernst, and BetterLife Members - Sun Prairie, WI, President Susan Vertz and Vice President Rich Vertz, work together serving fresh strawberry shortcake at the festival.
Maurer. (L to R) Secretary Pam Jones,
Maurer, Jessica Green, Treasurer Joan Hanson, Vice President Mary Maurer, President Barb McNulty, Jill Prochaska, Cathy Brauner, and Member & Community Engagement Administrator Andrea Hedquist.
Upcoming Events Around Wisconsin
Events, dates, and times are subject to change. For the latest information and details about the events below, and more activities for you to join, go to:
betterlifeins.com/events or call the Member Engagement at (800) 779-1936 option 7
Has your member group held an event or fundraiser recently? We would love to feature it in our next issue. Send photos and information to memberengagement@betterlifeins.com. Have a personal story or experience to share about BetterLife? We'll help craft the story from your written or verbal details. Call (800) 779-1936 option 7, or email (see above) to speak with the Member & Community Engagement Team.
Help Bring BetterLife's Mission to Life in Your Community!
There are thriving towns and cities where member groups are just waiting for someone like you to use your passion and become a member leader. Whether you’re ready to reignite your local member group or curious about getting more involved, now is the perfect time to help better your community.
Fill out our Member Group Interest Form to get started today at: bit.ly/MemberGroupLeadership-InterestForm or scan the QR code with your phone.
Melon Sorbet Float*
All of us in Wisconsin know that summertime means a lot of sunshine and a lot of heat. Before you head outside to enjoy some fresh air this weekend, throw together one of these easy, refreshing melon sorbet floats for instant relief from that summer heat!
Ingredients:
Assorted melon balls (watermelon, honeydew, cantaloupe, etc.)
2 scoops homemade fruit sorbet (3 cups frozen fruit, 4 Tbsp milk of choice)
Fresh mint leaves
Seltzer water
Directions:
Healthy Recipe Ideas.
Freeze melon balls. Make homemade sorbet by combining three cups frozen fruit with four tablespoons milk of choice in blender. Blend until smooth. Add two scoops sorbet to the bottom of a glass and store the rest in freezer. Add frozen melon balls and fresh mint on top of sorbet in glass, then finish with seltzer. Let sorbet melt, and enjoy!
*Source: rachlmansfield.com/fruit-sorbet-2-ingredients/ and http://fifteenspatulas.com/4-refreshing-summer-drinks
Leave Your Loved Ones the Gift of Security
Our Better Final Expense solutions can help ease your worries by providing your loved ones with funds to cover final expense costs whenever that time comes.
Find out more about our suite of Better Final Expense products and how they could work for your needs, by visiting: betterlifeins.com/life-insurance/final-expense
To speak to our Member Services Team, call (800) 779-1936, or email info@betterlifeins.com
Hello Sunshine, Goodbye Social Isolation
Angel Thomas - Community Ambassador, SVP, Member & Community Engagement athomas@betterlifeins.com
In Wisconsin, July is the ideal time to reconnect with the outdoors and rekindle community connections. However, for many, social isolation remains a significant challenge. Here are some ways that we, as individuals and communities, can foster inclusion and connection:
• Check on neighbors: A visit or phone call can brighten someone’s day.
• Organize gatherings: Host a potluck, morning coffee, or game night.
• Participate in local events: Attend activities at community centers, libraries, or outdoor venues.
• Be proactive: If you feel isolated, seek out support groups or workshops.
As we enjoy the activities July brings, let’s focus on reducing social isolation and its associated health impacts. By working together — as communities and individuals — we can ensure that every resident feels valued, connected, and supported.
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Contact the Member & Community Engagement Team at 608-833-1936 (option 7) , or memberengagement@betterlifeins.com Learn about more events from our 78 BetterLife Member Groups by signing up for BetterLife Connect! Visit connect.betterlifeins.com/signup or scan the QR code
To register scan the QR code or visit: betterlifeins.com/regional-gatherings You can also find an event schedule, pricing for members and non-members, and a downloadable, printable registration form here.
Unable to go online to register?