Tara Draeger Named Women of Vision Honoree

Aspirus System Community Health Improvement Director Tara Draeger was recognized as a YWCA Women of Vision Honoree.

 

Tara works with several community groups which inspired collaborations that bring healing activities to diverse populations.

 

In her current role with Aspirus, Tara developed a Fruit and Veggie prescription program, connecting the medical community with local farmers to bring fresh, local produce to Aspirus patients and community members. She also coordinates an on-site Farmer’s Market to increase access to local foods for patients, staff and community members and this food is used in the cafeteria at Aspirus Wausau Hospital.

 

Tara is an advocate for recovery and mental health services. As the co-founder of a local participatory mural arts program, Rise Up Central Wisconsin, she was an integral part of the grassroots efforts to create the 501c3 nonprofit status and then worked on fundraising, grant writing, program support and strategic planning.

 

Tara also shares her creative energy in her work through various boards and committees in central Wisconsin. Beside those already mentioned, she serves on the Women's Community Board (current president), Marathon County LIFE Steering Community, Marathon County Board of Health, Healthy Marathon County Alliance, and Aspirus Social Responsibility Committee.

 

The annual YWCA Women of Vision event, held this year on May 20, is meant to highlight some of the incredible women who have made a difference in our communities. These women align with the YWCA's mission to promote peace, justice, and dignity for all by providing advocacy and programming in Marathon County that improves our community's inclusiveness and the health, safety, and economic advancement of women and girls.