- Apr 17
- 7 min read
Important Dates and Upcoming Events
CSN Closed
Monday, May 25
Friday, July 3
For more information about our upcoming events, visit us at VisitCSN.org/events or follow us on
Celebrate Diversity Month: Honoring What Makes Us Unique
April is Celebrate Diversity Month—a time to recognize, appreciate, and learn from the many differences that make our community vibrant and strong. At Community Support Network (CSN), this month is especially meaningful. Every day, we see how diversity—in ability, background, perspective, and experience—enriches our lives and strengthens our connections.
Celebrate Diversity Month is an opportunity to reflect on the importance of inclusion and belonging. At CSN, we are committed to creating a space where everyone feels valued, respected, and supported in being their authentic selves. This commitment is at the heart of our work and our community.
Our clients, staff, and volunteers each bring their own unique perspectives and talents. These differences help shape a community that is creative, compassionate, and full of life. By embracing what makes each person unique, we foster an environment where everyone has the opportunity to grow, connect, and thrive.
This month also serves as a reminder that inclusion is an ongoing effort. It’s reflected in the way we listen to one another, show kindness, and ensure that all voices are heard. Small, everyday actions can make a big difference in building a more inclusive and welcoming world.
We are grateful for the individuals who make up the CSN community and for the diversity that strengthens us. Together, we continue to learn from one another and celebrate what makes each of us unique.
Let’s carry the spirit of Celebrate Diversity Month with us throughout the year—continuing to build a community where everyone belongs.
Growing Our Community
Community Support Network has had an exciting season of growth and transition across our board, staff, and volunteer community. We are thrilled to welcome two new members to our Board of Directors, Beth Hasselbacher, of the Madison Metropolitan School District (MMSD), and Chris Hubert, of the City of Madison Fire Department. We are excited for Beth and Chris bring fresh perspectives and energy to support our mission. At the same time, we are proud to share that Heather Kleist, of Lockton Companies, has been elected as Board President, stepping into this leadership role with a strong understanding of our work and a deep commitment to our community. We also extend our sincere gratitude to our outgoing president, Nicole Frank, who recently relocated to Arizona. Nicole's impact on CSN has been meaningful, and we wish her continued success.
Within our team, we recently said goodbye to Kristen Wells, who dedicated 13 years to CSN and has now moved on to pursue a new career opportunity. Kristen’s long-standing commitment and contributions have left a lasting mark on our organization. As we wish her well in this next chapter, we are excited to welcome Lisa Wilcox to the team. Lisa is already a familiar and trusted presence at CSN as a devoted volunteer, and we are so glad to have her step into a staff role.
We are also so excited to welcome Caitlin back to CSN as an intern this semester. Since returning at the end of January, Caitlin has brought incredible energy and creativity into our space. From her very first day, she captivated the group with a lively reading of Matilda by Matilda, using expressive voices and enthusiasm that have turned story time into a favorite weekly tradition. Each session has become a meaningful routine—starting with a recap, continuing the story together, and ending with thoughtful conversations where everyone can share reactions and favorite moments. Beyond the story itself, Caitlin brings warmth, care, and intention, creating an environment where everyone feels comfortable participating and connecting. Her presence has truly enriched our community, and we feel lucky to have her back for the semester.
A Look at What We’ve Been Up To at CSN
There’s never a dull moment at CSN! From thoughtful conversations to friendly competition and staying active, our days are filled with a wide variety of activities that bring people together, spark curiosity, and create plenty of fun along the way.
One of the highlights of our schedule continues to be our discussion groups. These conversations give everyone a chance to share ideas, learn something new, and connect with one another. Topics have ranged from important historical figures like Rosa Parks and Martin Luther King Jr. to some of the more lighthearted “silly” daily holidays. Whether we’re talking about International Tug of War Day or International Chopstick Day, these themes often lead to laughter, curiosity, and even trying new things together. It’s been a great way to balance learning with fun and creativity.
We’ve also been staying active with fitness opportunities throughout the week. Time spent using exercise machines helps build strength, boost energy, and support overall well-being. Whether someone is just getting started or already enjoys working out, it’s been great to see everyone encouraging one another and celebrating progress.
Of course, no week at CSN would be complete without some group games! From ping pong matches and plastic cup races to tournaments that bring out a little friendly competition, there’s always excitement in the air. Classic games like Yahtzee and Outburst have also been favorites, offering chances to work as a team, think creatively, and share plenty of laughs.
What makes all of these activities special isn’t just what we’re doing—it’s the way they bring people together. Whether we’re learning, moving, or playing, each moment is an opportunity to connect, support one another, and enjoy being part of the CSN community.
We’re looking forward to even more fun, creativity, and connection in the weeks ahead!
Congratulations, Kristina!
We are excited to celebrate Kristina as she begins a new job at Camp Creatability!
Kristina has always shared how much she enjoys working with people, and finding a role where she could do that has been an important goal for her. This new position is a wonderful fit, giving her the chance to connect with others, be part of a team, and contribute in a meaningful way.
Since starting, Kristina has been embracing the experience and settling into her role with enthusiasm. It’s been great to see her confidence grow as she navigates this new environment and builds relationships along the way. She has already shared how much she is enjoying being there, which makes this milestone even more special.
CSN is proud to continue supporting Kristina as she takes this step. While she is building independence in her new role, we remain part of her support system—offering guidance when needed and celebrating her successes along the way.
Kristina, we are so proud of you and all the work you’ve put in to reach this point. Congratulations on this exciting new chapter—we’re cheering you on!
Focusing on Social Wellness
At CSN, one important aspect of wellness we see every day is social wellness—building meaningful connections and feeling a sense of belonging within a community. Strong social connections can help improve mood, reduce stress, and create a more supportive environment for everyone.
Here are three simple ways to support social wellness:
Start a conversation
A simple greeting or asking someone about their day can open the door to connection.
Participate in group activities
Joining discussions, games, or shared activities helps create opportunities to interact and build relationships.
Practice active listening
Showing genuine interest by listening, making eye contact, and responding thoughtfully helps others feel heard and valued.
Small, everyday interactions like these help strengthen our community and create more connected and inclusive environments.
Spring Recipes
Feta Chickpea Salad
Ingredients
1 - 15oz Can Chickpeas, Drained
1/2 C Roasted Red Peppers
3 Green Onions, Chopped
1 Tbsp Dried Dill
1 Lemon, Juiced
1 tsp Honey
1 tsp Cumin
2 Tbsp Olive Oil
1 C Crumbled Feta
Instructions
Place the drained chickpeas into a serving bowl.
Slice the roasted red peppers into strips and mix with the chickpeas.
Whisk the lemon juice, honey, cumin, and oil.
Add the dressing to chickpea/pepper mixture and toss to coat.
Add the green onions and feta to the salad and stir until well combined.
Top with the dill.
Serve & Enjoy!
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Taco Pinwheels
Ingredients
8oz Cream Cheese, Softened
1 C Shredded Cheddar Cheese
1 Packet Taco Seasoning
1/2 C Salsa
4 Large Flour Tortillas
1 C Shredded Lettuce
1/2 C Diced Tomatoes
1/4 C Sliced Black Olives
1/4 C Chopped Green Onions
Instructions
In a medium bowl combine softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, taco seasoning, and salsa and mix until smooth and well blended.
Spread 1/4 of your cream cheese mixture evenly over one of the flour tortillas, leaving a small border around the edges.
Sprinkle shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, sliced black olives, and chopped green onions over the cream cheese mixture.
Starting at one end, roll the tortilla tightly into a log.
Repeat steps two through four with the remaining tortillas.
Once finished, wrap each tortilla individually in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
Once the rolls have set, slice them into pinwheels.
Serve & Enjoy!
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Peanut Butter Banana Smoothie
Ingredients
2 Frozen Bananas
2 Tbsp Peanut Butter
1 C Unsweetened Almond Milk
1/2 C Plain Greek Yogurt
Honey (to taste)
Instructions
Combine ingredients into a blender.
Blend until smooth.
Pour into a glass and serve with a straw.
Enjoy!
Make a Difference
Shop for a Cause!
Visit our Online Shop for a variety of must-have items! Every purchase helps raise funds and spread awareness for our mission. By wearing our gear, you’re not only supporting a great cause but also promoting inclusion and empowerment for adults with developmental disabilities. Thank you for being a part of our community and making a difference!
Ways to Donate
Financial Donation - Financial donations are always appreciated! Checks can be mailed to CSN or donate directly on our website - VisitCSN.org
ShopRaise - Shop online using ShopRaise and your purchases from eligible retailers will help support CSN.
Volunteer - Share a hobby or talent with us. We would love to learn something new from you!
Supplies - Contact us if you have supplies to donate and we’ll let you know what we are in need of.
Hire Us!
Hire CSN clients to work at your company. Email Info@VisitCSN.org for more information.
Host an Art Gallery Event!
Learn about our clients and their lives through art. Host our art gallery at your business for a month and experience their stories and talents. Email Info@VisitCSN.org for more information.
