The City of De Pere, Wisconsin

Belonging begins here... in De Pere!

Social connectedness influences our minds, bodies, and behaviors—all of which can influence our health and life expectancy. Research shows that social connectedness can lead to longer life, better health, and improved well-being. Social connectedness can also help create trust and resilience within communities.

Did you know…

• Lacking social connection increases risk of premature death by more than 60%, equivalent to smoking up to 15 cigarettes a day
• Social connection is a fundamental human need, as essential to survival as food, water, and shelter
• Social support, such as providing emotional (caring for), practical (housekeeping or financial aid), or psychological support, can help to decrease poor birth outcomes in pregnant and post-partum people and can reduce rates of substance use and developing mental illness
• Social connection with others can help:
• Improve your ability to recover from stress, anxiety, and depression.
• Promote healthy eating, physical activity, and weight.
• Improve sleep, well-being, and quality of life.
• Reduce your risk of violent and suicidal behaviors.
• Prevent death from chronic diseases.
• There are less social association/membership organizations in Brown County than the rest of Wisconsin and the US (8.2 membership organizations per 10,000 people compared to 11.2 in Wisconsin and 9.1 in US) 

Places and ways you can increase your social connection and sense of belonging:

• In De Pere:
  • De Pere Community Center is an epicenter of lifelong learning, health, fitness, recreation, enrichment, and celebration opportunities for our community and surrounding region. There is a wide variety of programming available for all ages and Community Center rooms may be rented for business/organization meetings, baby/bridal showers, small wedding receptions, reunions, banquets, or parties for any occasion.
  • De Pere Parks, Recreation and Forestry is here to help you explore your passions, hobbies, and interests (or discover new ones)!  All seasons. All ages. All abilities.
  • De Pere Urban Orchards are public fruit trees throughout the city that revitalize underutilized city property, create neighborhood activity opportunities, and promote awareness on the importance of agriculture and nutrition
  • Brown County Library- Kress Family Branch De Pere offers gathering space and events that help build new and existing connections
  • Definitely De Pere works to increase and coordinate unique activities that enliven the City of De Pere and increase the sense of community
  • Groups to join:  
    • De Pere Beautification Committee works cooperatively with the City of De Pere, Definitely De Pere, businesses, residents and volunteers in a coordinated effort to promote beauty and civic pride throughout the City of De Pere
    • Kiwanis Club of De Pere includes men and women from all walks of life, united in their commitment to serving children and their community
    • De Pere Neighborhood Watch Groups encourage neighborhood relationships while helping to keep the community safe
    • De Pere Area Men’s Club is a group of retired men working to make De Pere community a better place to live
    • GFWC Woman's Club of De Pere is a volunteer organization that supports reading for children, literacy for adults, and libraries around the world
    • De Pere Optimist Club holds the belief that the giving of one’s self in service to others will advance the well-being of humankind, community life, and the world
    • De Pere Lions Club serves and improves the community while enjoying friendship and camaraderie
    • Rotary Club of De Pere serves the community while building friendships and social skills
    • VFW Post 2113 & Auxiliary is a place where De Pere Veterans and their families and friends are welcomed in a friendly and patriotic atmosphere
    • Knights of Columbus Abbot Pennings Council 
    • Social Skills Group through Wisconsin Early Autism Project - De Pere offers opportunities for children (6-18 years old) with autism to build social skills and participate in clubs
• In Brown County:
  • The Volunteer Center of Brown County creates a stronger community by engaging volunteers to support nonprofit partners
  • Discover Green Bay lists community events happening in Brown County
• In general
  • Wisconsin-Consumer-Guide-to-Staying-Connected-6.13.23.docx (live.com)
  • End Isolation & Loneliness | WIHA (wihealthyaging.org)
  • What You Can Do to Improve Social Connectedness | CDC
  • Feeling lonely? | Campaign to End Loneliness
  • 8 Ways to Create and Build Social Connections (connect2affect.org)
  • Give the Gift of Connection (acl.gov)
  • Additional services and programs in WI: www.wellbadger.org