It’s difficult to capture the impact someone can have on an organization over many years and while helping out in many different ways. Jason Bennett has helped to herald the Chippewa Valley LGBTQ+ Community Center through some of its greatest challenges, and has overseen some of its greatest accomplishments, often while filling multiple different roles at the same time. Now he’s stepping back from the Center, and has agreed to share some final words about his time with the organization.
How did you get involved in the Center?
I had been volunteering for a few months at a non-friendly non-profit and wanted to find something that would help the LGBTQ+ community. It took a few months to find the Center and reach someone there (back then there was no physical space), so I finally dropped in on a meeting in April, 2012.
What was your biggest challenge as a Board Member?
Re-opening the Center. Believe it or not, we faced opposition from within our own board at the time. I don’t think we’d still be around if we hadn’t pushed that through back in 2016.
What has been your proudest moment as a Board Member?
We accomplished a lot in the 11 years I was there, so it’s hard to choose. Re-opening the Center was major, but I think bringing Pride to Phoenix Park, which took a lot of years of work, would be my proudest moment.
What advice would you give to people looking to get involved with making a difference?
There are so many ways to get involved, but the first step is doing something. Be the change.
What do you hope to pass along to future members of the organization?
Give only what you can, listen to others, and let others lead you sometimes.
What’s next for you?
I’m focusing on my career by returning to a structured work week and full time employment. My husband and I are also focusing on our family commitments as local issues in Chippewa Falls and the areas surrounding Eau Claire.
As you step into this next part of your journey, we want to thank you for your years of dedication and wish you all the very best. Thank you for everything and may your future endeavors be memorable, Jason!