Volunteer spotlight: Chad & Heidi Fett

Chad and Heidi Fett have been active supporters of Family Resource Center St. Croix Valley since Chad joined the Board of Directors in 2014. Chad is a Senior Vice President at First State Bank and Trust, and says he was motivated to be a part of the Family Resource Center because of the direct return on investment. “Education, energy and funding put into our children has both an immediate and long-term positive effect on our children and communities,” said Chad, who is in his sixth year of service on the board and served as Board President in 2018. He and his wife Heidi have participated in the annual Reach for the Stars gala as well as other special events and projects, including UWRF-Bowls for Hope and the expansion of the Baldwin office space.

“As the 2018 board president Chad was always there to lend guidance and support, said executive director Agnes Ring. “He brings thoughtfulness, humor, and a great appreciation for the parent educators on the front lines of our work. The building expansion project was a major undertaking last year. Chad rallied the board members to share in the hands-on labor of priming, painting, and laying out the ceiling. We are so lucky to have both Chad and Heidi as great ambassadors of our annual Reach for the Stars gala event!”

Heidi joined the Reach for the Stars gala planning committee in 2017 and has helped to plan raffles, arrange catering and generally do whatever is needed. “I am grateful for the creativity and perspective Heidi brings to the committee,” said Development & Communications Coordinator Kristin Thompson. “She has good ideas and is always game to try something new. I also appreciate her positivity and great sense of humor.”

Chad and Heidi both said they enjoy hearing first-hand from parent educators and as well as parents who have participated in programming. A recent success story that stands out for them is that of a grandparent who received home visits while providing temporary foster care for his granddaughter. His parent educator provided him with basic infant care information, education on use of baby equipment and supplies, and help understanding developmental stages and milestones. “The parent educators are heart of the organization,” said Chad.