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.