Sheboygan, WI, Makes it Easy to Get Connected
While exciting and new, any relocation can elicit a little uneasiness. Thankfully, leaders in Sheboygan, WI, are one step ahead, making it easy for newcomers to get connected.
Meet Leah Bischoff, a transition concierge specialist for the Sheboygan County Chamber of Commerce who helps answer questions, make connections and point newcomers to anything they might need as they begin to call Sheboygan, WI, their new home. Plus, as a relocatee herself, having moved to Sheboygan from Saukville, WI, in 2016, she is more than familiar with the challenges people face when they move to a new community.
What is a transition specialist, and how does he/she help newcomers get connected in Sheboygan, WI?
This is a new role that the chamber started in 2024. I help with anything involving workforce, housing and connecting people to the community. For any newcomer to the Sheboygan area, it’s my job to help them feel at home and provide them with information about any essential services they might need as well as just connect them to the right people, events and opportunities.
I think it’s really important that they’re dealing with a person. They’re not being sent to a robot for all these automated responses. Instead, you get that personalized service, so I can really listen to what they’re asking for and address what they need.
What is an example of something you and the chamber can offer potential newcomers?
A major campaign we have going on regarding our workforce community in Sheboygan is called the Make Your Mark program. Some of the key benefits of this program are streamline recruitment and accessibility, personalized services and transition resources. People can apply through the chamber website, and their resume gets put into a folder for more than 50 employers to view. We then help those employers make that connection. If there is a candidate an employer is considering hiring, I can give them a tour around the city.
What about for people who have already accepted a job and are moving to the area?
We can connect them to a real estate professional or set them up with tours with apartment managers. We can also help on a case-by-case basis with temporary housing, such as 60-day dorm-style housing. We help connect people with moving companies or U-Haul. We can provide gas and grocery store gift cards. We can even take people to a local event they might be interested in. Basically, anything that might help you in your new role, we can get you connected to the right people.
Is there an example of somebody you helped get connected in Sheboygan, WI?
We had one woman who talked about being a pet/dog enthusiast, and she wanted to know where she could go to volunteer. We told her about Pawsitism, which is a great nonprofit group that trains service dogs for children with autism. We also mentioned places that are pet-friendly, like 3 Sheeps Brewing Co. This is a pet-friendly community, and we wanted her to realize that right away.
What is your top tip for newcomers to get connected in Sheboygan, WI?
Get involved with any of 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 the one of the first things a newcomer to Sheboygan should see or do?
Oh, it’s hard to say just one, so I’m going to give you a few. We have a lot of low-cost and free activities around here. 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 all free and clean. You can just show up with 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 and onto the beach and out into a prairie area.
What is the best thing about Sheboygan?
Our people here 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.