Become a Member Leader, Better Your Life and Maybe Even Pass on a Legacy
Volunteer leadership has long been the cornerstone of our organization’s growth. Over the years, many of our member leaders have built a legacy by passing the torch to their children and grandchildren. However, times have changed, and fewer families continue this tradition.
How Giving Back Can Transform Your Life
Volunteer leadership is about making a meaningful impact in your community. Some may wonder, “What am I signing up for?” The answer: You’re signing up to change lives. Not only will you give back to others, but volunteering can help you nurture your own well-being by bringing you greater happiness and fulfillment, career growth, and a renewed zest for life. In an era where burnout, stress, and mental health challenges are at the forefront, volunteering offers a lifeline to better ourselves while making a difference.
Making Time for Giving
Despite busy schedules and overflowing calendars, it is possible to find time to give back. According to a poll conducted by BioLife*, most people already make time to volunteer:
• 54% have donated their time to volunteering in the past year
• 31% have volunteered in the past month
• On average, volunteers spend six hours per month supporting their communities
The BetterLife member leader positions only require about one hour per month, plus additional time when planning engaging events and activities.
Discover Your Passion for Service
Whether it’s joining an animal rescue effort, packing sack lunches for food-insecure children, or volunteering at an eldercare center, we’d love to help you find and support the causes that mean the most to you.
Learn More
Our member groups offer a wealth of opportunities for leadership and volunteer service. If you’re interested or want to learn more, contact the Member & Community Engagement Team at (800) 779-1936 option 7, or memberengagement@betterlifeins.com
Ready to Take the Next Step Today?
Fill out our Member Group Interest Form at: bit.ly/MemberGroupLeadershipInterestForm or scan the QR code with your phone.
Thank you for your consideration. Now is the perfect time to help make a difference and better your community!
* Source: BioLife Plasma Services: The 2023 State of Giving and Volunteerism
Honoring a Love for Cats
Plymouth, WI
The ACFA Pedigree and Household Pet Cat Show, hosted by the Fox River Valley Cat Club and held from August 15-17, showcased over 80 remarkable cats and brought together a vibrant community of cat enthusiasts from all over the United States and Canada. Among the attendees was Alice Samse, Treasurer of BetterLife Members – Plymouth, WI, and Vice President Roman Alcantara Samse, both of whom played significant roles in supporting and celebrating this beloved event. The show was more than just a competition — it was a joyful gathering where feline lovers exchanged stories, enthusiasm, and admiration for their cherished pets. The event exemplified how shared interests can draw a community together, creating lasting memories and fostering a spirit of support and celebration.
A special moment occurred when Alice Samse (far right) presented a check to the organizers of the Fox River Valley Cat Club
Inspiring and Engaging Young Outdoor Enthusiasts
On Saturday, August 23, BetterLife Members – Mosinee, WI, participated in the 20th Annual Sporting Heritage Youth Day, an event dedicated to fostering outdoor skills and safety among youth.
Children lined up at BetterLife’s booth to spin the prize wheel, get stamped with animal tracks, and grab their ticket for a chance to win one of two bikes! Over 150 youth attendees also had the opportunity to visit 17 other stations that offered hands-on learning experiences, such as archery, turkey calls, and vital safety measures in a deer stand, each designed to educate on outdoor recreation and stewardship.
BetterLife Members – Plymouth, WI, is seeking passionate members to fill their President and Secretary roles. Please reach out to Angel Thomas if you are interested at athomas@betterlifeins.com.
A
Weekend of
Festivities,
The event’s success was made possible by the volunteers and organizations who helped ensure that traditions of outdoor skills and safety, along with an appreciation for nature, continue to thrive. The sight of happy children riding away on their new bikes was a testament to the meaningful impact we can have on our communities.
Flavor, and Fellowship
Weyerhaeuser, WI
The 77th Annual Booster Days transformed the heart of Weyerhaeuser, WI, into a vibrant celebration of heritage and unity. On Saturday, August 30, BetterLife Members – Weyerhaeuser, WI, hosted a booth, with the kolache cookie – a delicate pastry filled with cream cheese and apricot – taking center stage. Sunday, BetterLife members distributed T-shirts and candy in the parade, festivalgoers danced their hearts out to live polka music, and enthusiastic members of the community filled the pavilion. Thank you, BetterLife Members –Weyerhaeuser, WI, for your dedication in helping make this event a success!
Mosinee, WI
Cat Show, underscoring the spirit of generosity and camaraderie that defines the group. In the background, a judge held Junior, the beloved cat of Alice's daughter, Jackie. Although Junior did not participate in the event, he was present to support his sibling, who proudly took home third-place honors.
BetterLife Members - Weyerhaeuser, WI, pause for a picture as they get the BetterLife float ready for the 77th Annual Booster Days parade. (L to R sitting) Steve Zmrazek, with his two granddaughters Scotlyn and Emersyn Zmrazek. (L to R standing) Sharon Czekalski, Kathy Patterson, and Craig Patterson.
Gladys Ruha, Treasurer, Sharon Altenhofen, and Pam Thompson, Secretary, pose with bikes donated from BetterLife.
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.
Pork Chops with Apples and Butternut Squash
Ingredients:
4 thick-cut pork chops
Salt and pepper
2 tsp Italian seasoning
4 Tbsp butter, divided
1 Tbsp olive oil
3 cups butternut squash, cubed
1 onion, diced
5 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp fresh rosemary, minced
2 Tbsp brown sugar
½ tsp ground cinnamon
¾ cup apple cider
2 apples, cored and sliced
Directions:
Healthy Recipe Ideas.
Season pork chops with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Melt 2 Tbsp butter in large skillet. Add pork chops and cook until internal temp is 145 degrees. Transfer to plate. To same skillet, add squash and 1 Tbsp butter. Cook for 5-8 minutes, stirring frequently. Add onion; cook until soft and translucent. Mix in garlic, rosemary, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Cook for 1-2 minutes. Mix in cider and apples. Tuck pork chops into mixture. Cook until pork internal temp is 145 degrees, approx. 3-4 minutes. Top with remaining butter and remove from heat.
Refer a Friend and Win!
Invite friends and non-members to join BetterLife Connect and win a prize!
Referring someone is easy! Have them sign up at connect.betterlifeins.com/signup. Tell them to enter your name in Step 2 under If you were referred by someone, help us give them credit!
Invite 1 person and choose a BetterLife tire gauge or sling bag.
Invite 3 people and upgrade to a BetterLife nail kit or tape measure key chain.
No email? No problem! Call us at 608-833-1936, option 7. Or visit bit.ly/BLConnect-Paper-App (or scan the QR code) to download and print an application.
Mail your application to: BetterLife
6522 Grand Teton Plaza Madison, WI 53719
Attn: Member Engagement
BEACON
Madison, WI 53701-1527 betterlifeins.com f l @betterlifeinsco
Building a Better Future, Together!
Angel Thomas - Community Ambassador, SVP, Member & Community Engagement athomas@betterlifeins.com
As you read this issue of the Beacon, I invite you to reflect: Are you seeking greater fulfillment beyond your career or current activities? If so, volunteering can be a powerful way to find it. One small step can lead to significant changes, so don’t let doubt or the idea of starting small hold you back. As a member of BetterLife, you have the unique opportunity to make a real difference in your community — and to discover what matters most.
Our member groups offer a wealth of opportunities for leadership and volunteer service. If you’re interested or would like to learn more, you can start by visiting betterlifeins.com/betterlife-connect. You’re also more than welcome to reach out to me directly. Call or text me at (920) 323-7539 — I’d love for you to join our incredible volunteer team. Together, we can build stronger community connections and a better future.
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