Over two days, Rock County became the center of an important dialogue about family, trust, and systemic change. More than sixty people gathered—including BeeHive members, a Wisconsin State Senator, community partners, and the Wisconsin Department of Children and Families Secretary—to explore how we can work together to keep families safely together. The event, planned and facilitated by BeeHive members, was part of the Rock Families First initiative, which aims to create a community where children and families thrive. It wasn’t just another meeting: it was a call to action, and a promise to do better.
The conversations were rich and deeply personal. Participants rotated through small group discussions, tackling questions about trust, dignity, prevention, and policy. They asked: What does a strong family look like? How do we rebuild trust where it’s been broken? What supports are families missing most? How can policies reflect real family experiences? These questions sparked honest dialogue and a shared commitment to change.
One truth rang clear: trust begins with listening. Families need professionals who show up as humans first—who listen with curiosity, without judgment, and with a genuine desire to understand. They need transparency and accountability, not surprises or broken promises. They need systems that admit when harm has occurred and commit to doing better.
Participants stressed the importance of centering lived experience, reminding everyone of the principle: “Nothing about someone, without someone.” Families are the experts in their own lives, and systems must give them authority—not just a seat at the table. This means shifting power dynamics, embracing humility, and creating policies that are flexible and strengths-based. It also means addressing cultural awareness and recognizing that professional qualifications alone cannot define what families need.
The conversations also revealed urgent needs. Housing, childcare, transportation, and economic opportunity were named again and again. Families are working hard, yet still struggling to make ends meet. Fear and stigma make it worse. Too many parents hesitate to ask for help because they fear judgment—or worse, losing their children. As one participant put it: “Help when, and how, it’s needed.” That simple truth could change everything.
Systemic change was another recurring theme. Current structures often perpetuate the very problems they aim to solve. Participants called for policies that reflect family realities, reduce adversarial processes, and prioritize authentic partnership. They envisioned a system where professionals and families work side by side, where language is clear and accessible, and where resources are flexible and responsive. And they reminded us: “Change requires action, not just words.”
As the Wisconsin DCF Secretary, Jeff Pertl, remarked, “The work you are doing is unparalleled. You are profound leaders in this change.” That sentiment captured the spirit of the conversations: a shared vision for a community built on trust, dignity, and collaboration—where no family fears asking for help, and every child grows up safe and supported.
This is just the beginning. More community conversations are in the works for next year, continuing the journey toward a stronger, more connected Rock County.
Learn more about Rock County's outcomes in our impact report.
Listen to remarks from Kate Luster, Director of Rock County Human Services, at the Community Conversation: