Local Spotlight

September 04, 2024

It is always a joy to have guests on the podcast. We love to spotlight the amazing things happening in our community, and this episode is no exception. We were overjoyed to have Michelle Willie and Laura Greene from Project Wild Rooted join us. It was a privilege to learn more about "Project Wild Rooted" and how they are impacting not only the next generation but also shaping the future of our community.

For those who aren’t familiar, Project Wild Rooted is a nature-based learning program that focuses on helping children build meaningful connections with the outdoors while fostering essential life skills that will serve them for years to come. In today’s fast-paced world, it’s easy for kids to become disconnected from nature. This program offers a space where children can experience hands-on learning in nature and develop a deep sense of curiosity about the world around them. Whether it’s learning how to garden, exploring local ecosystems, or simply taking the time to observe wildlife, Project Wild Rooted offers kids the chance to slow down and engage in a way that’s becoming increasingly rare.

What stood out to me during our conversation was the genuine passion Michelle and Laura have for this mission. They’ve created something truly special that not only teaches kids practical skills but also helps them build confidence and resilience—traits that are so important for becoming leaders in the future. By encouraging curiosity and problem-solving through outdoor exploration, Project Wild Rooted is giving children the tools they need to thrive not just academically, but personally as well.

You’ll definitely want to watch the full-length video to get the inside scoop on how this amazing program operates and how they’re inspiring the next generation of leaders right here in our community. Trust me, their energy is contagious, and it’s clear they are making a lasting impact on everyone involved.

But that’s not all. If you’re looking for a fun and meaningful way to get involved, you won’t want to miss their upcoming Farm to Table Fall Fundraiser! This event is guaranteed to be a great time, featuring a gourmet farm-to-table dinner that will highlight fresh, local ingredients prepared by talented chefs. You’ll also enjoy live music, a silent auction, a meat raffle, and the chance to meet and greet local farmers and artisans from our area. It’s an event that brings together so many amazing aspects of our community, and I can’t wait to be a part of it.

Now, I know many of you love supporting local causes, and this event is a perfect opportunity to do just that. All proceeds from the Farm to Table Fall Fundraiser will go toward the Friends of Project Wild Rooted non-profit, which works to keep field trip costs low for schools and provide teachers with outdoor learning resources. It’s a wonderful way to ensure that more children have access to the kind of nature-based education that’s becoming increasingly essential in today’s tech-heavy world.

But wait—there’s more! I’m so excited to announce that The Leonhardt Team is sponsoring a FULL table of 8, and we’re giving away tickets for you to join us at this special event. If you’d like a chance to win and support this incredible cause, just comment "Sponsorship" below, and we’ll add your name to the drawing. You could be one of the lucky winners who gets to attend, enjoy an amazing evening, and support a local organization that’s truly making a difference.

So, whether you’re interested in learning more about the importance of nature-based education or just want a fun night out filled with great food, music, and community spirit, this event has something for everyone. Let’s come together to support Project Wild Rooted and the impact they’re making on the future generation!

Meet Laura Greene

Hi! I’m Laura Greene. I’m a wife, mother, teacher and business owner. I’m a proud native to our rural community and am passionate about growing lifelong learners who have a deep connection to their environment. My husband and I own Wood Pallet Treasures where we pride in creating beautiful, functional, and practical items out of reclaimed wood. We are advocates for hands on learning and embedding life skills in educational programs. I have 18 years of teaching experience with a K-8 teaching license and an environmental education certificate. I’ve been trained in Project Learning Tree and Project Wild and hold a MAEd degree and a school administration license. I can’t even explain how excited I am to start our third year of Project Wild Rooted. We took an idea and turned it into a reality! Let’s Get Rooted!

Meet Michelle Wille

Hi! I’m Michelle Wille. I’m a born and raised country girl who fell in love with a farmer. Our family takes pride in our agricultural practices for the last 24 years at our Wille Farms. I am also a mom and a teacher within my small rural community. I have 20 years of teaching experience holding a 5-8 general science license, 9-12 Life Science license, and a M.A. in Teaching. I want to provide kids the opportunity to embrace the beauty and wonder of the natural world around them with hopes of promoting environmental stewardship and whole-body learning experiences. Having two years under our belt has given us just a taste of how meaningful this program is to our community. I am excited to continue with this journey as we join parents in keeping our youth rooted!