How to Get Connected in Northeast Wisconsin
While exciting, relocating to a new community can evoke feelings of uneasiness. Fortunately, for people moving to Northeast Wisconsin, those nervous feelings soon disappear. No matter where you choose to live in this 18-county region, it is easy to make new friends, get involved and become ingrained in one of the communities. Learn from these two residents on how to get connected in Northeast Wisconsin.
Leah Bischoff moved to Sheboygan County in 2016. She is a transition concierge specialist for the Sheboygan County Chamber, meaning she helps answer questions and guides newcomers to anything they might need.
Tracey Fuller, who moved to Brown County in 2021, is the founder and CEO of Allure Crown & Glory, a beauty supply store and beauty bar that she launched in 2024.
Leah Bischoff
What is your top tip for newcomers to get connected in Sheboygan?
Get involved with our chamber events. We have roundtables geared toward your industry where you can connect with like-minded individuals. We also have deep-dive groups involving one person from each industry. They meet once a month, give their pitch, say what they’re looking for and connect with other businesses. That’s a fabulous opportunity – really just showing up for any sort of community event is. You can come from anywhere and find a spot where you can fit in through all our different resources.
What is one of the first things a newcomer to Sheboygan should see or do?
We have a lot of low-cost and free activities. Some top ones are Above & Beyond Children’s Museum, our botanical gardens called Bookworm Gardens and the Stefanie H. Weill Center for the Performing Arts. We also have a plethora of beaches that are free and clean. You can just bring your picnic and have a great day at the beach at no cost. Kohler-Andrae State Park has some of the most beautiful hiking trails that take you through the woods and sand dunes as well as onto the beach and out into a prairie area.
What is the best thing about living in Sheboygan?
Our people are very warm and welcoming. You get those good Midwest feelings and vibes. People around here are very happy to help. They’re not too rushed, running off to the next thing and pushing you aside. They’re happy to include you and show you around because there is so much pride here in our opportunities and quality of life.
Tracey Fuller
What organizations did you join that helped you build your network?
When we moved here, my former employer was really intentional about getting connected. That’s how I got involved with the Greater Green Bay Chamber and their Leadership Green Bay program. Court Appointed Special Advocates of Brown County is another local organization near to my heart. I’m also active with the Brown County United Way. It’s mind-blowing to see how people give back.
How did making friends go for your children?
My kids are involved in sports through school and otherwise. That’s given me and my husband a way to meet other families and get time with them away from school. I love that my kids believe that they’re from Green Bay. This is where they’ve made their friends.
How can a newcomer make Brown County/Northeast Wisconsin feel like home?
Find a local church. Those are great places for the whole family to meet others and get connected. Don’t underestimate Facebook groups or social media pages. Facebook groups are gold mines for finding things to do and people to meet. There’s always something going on in Green Bay.
What advice would you give to someone moving to a new area where they don’t know anyone?
Be open minded. Get to know your coworkers and connect with your local chamber of commerce. Never underestimate what a city can offer you or what you can offer a city.
Get to Know Northeast Wisconsin
Want to learn more about living and working in the New North? Check out the latest edition of Livability Northeast Wisconsin – New North Region.