Unlocking Opportunity: United Way of Racine County Invites Grant Applications to Enhance Technology Access and Equity

RACINE, WI — Here’s the scoop on recent happenings in Racine County. The United Way is now accepting applications to improve access to technology, job openings for CNAs are available, and there’s a new timeline set for the Buc-ee’s project at I-94 and Elm Road.

United Way Opens Grant Applications

The United Way of Racine County is inviting applications for its Equity Through Technology Fund. This fund aims to support projects that foster equality and decrease technology gaps. Launched with Microsoft in December 2023, it has already helped twelve projects, reaching 638 residents.

Ali Haigh, the organization’s President and CEO, shared how important this fund is:

“We’re excited to offer this second round of funding. This initiative is part of our ongoing work to help everyone access technology, ensuring our community has the tools to thrive in a digital world.”

Racine’s commitment to digital equity is clear. The city is also providing free laptops, tech support, and training for 460 families over the next seven years.

For further details about the grant, check out UnitedWayRacine.org/ETT.

National Wear Red Day: Women’s Heart Health Awareness

On February 7, people nationwide will wear red to spotlight women’s heart disease, the leading cause of death for women. The Go Red for Women campaign, headed by the American Heart Association, addresses the gaps in research and prevention for women.

Historically, women have been overlooked in heart disease studies, resulting in misdiagnoses. Many heart diseases can be prevented through education, early detection, and healthy lifestyle choices like a balanced diet, exercise, and managing stress.

This event encourages everyone to get involved by wearing red, spreading awareness, and supporting heart health research.

Hospice Alliance Hiring Certified Nursing Aides

Hospice Alliance is on the lookout for Certified Nursing Aides (CNAs) to join their respected team. They will host walk-in interviews every Thursday in February from 1–3 p.m. at their Pleasant Prairie office (10220 Prairie Ridge Blvd.). Positions are full-time with pay starting at $18.50 per hour and include benefits like paid time off and health insurance.

Applicants should bring a resume, CNA certification, driver’s license, and proof of auto insurance. More details can be found at hospicealliance.org/careers.

John Nichols to Speak at Siena Retreat Center

Celebrated journalist John Nichols will speak at Siena Retreat Center on February 25 from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. His talk, Perspectives and Projections, will tackle major economic, political, and social issues of today.

Nichols, a correspondent for The Nation, is known for his insightful commentary. He’s written several significant books and is respected for his deep understanding of civic issues.

This in-person event has a registration fee of $20, and spaces are limited. Early registration is recommended at sienaretreatcenter.org/retreats.

He recently spoke in Racine about Project 2025, discussing its threats to American democracy.

Caledonia’s New ‘Do Not Solicit’ Registry

Caledonia has launched a Do Not Solicit Registry for residents wishing to opt out of commercial solicitations at home. This follows a new ordinance changing the name of Transient Merchants to Direct Sellers.

Signing up for the registry will stop solicitors from visiting your property, enhancing privacy and reducing unwanted visits.

Enrollment is open and voluntary for all residents. Interested individuals can register online at caledonia-wi.gov/donotsolicit.

Updates on Buc-ee’s Travel Center Proposal

The Oak Creek Plan Commission has updated the timeline for reviewing the Buc-ee’s travel center at I-94 and Elm Road. Here’s the revised schedule:

• March 18, 2025: Public hearing for rezoning and land use changes.
• April 22, 2025: Review of Certified Survey Map and Conditional Use Permit for the fueling plaza.
• May 20, 2025: Public hearing for the Conditional Use Permit and parcel combination request.
• June 10, 2025: Final site and construction plan review by the Plan Commission.

While the Plan Commission will make recommendations, the Common Council will make the final decisions. Residents can attend public hearings for updates. More information is available on the City of Oak Creek’s website.

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