Community Development

Community, Natural Resource and Economic Development programs help Wisconsin communities deal with their unique challenges of land use and smart growth initiatives, natural resource and water quality issues, local government operations and finance, economic development, community decision-making and leadership issues. Backed by University of Wisconsin research, CNRED educators work with local governments, civic organizations, businesses and community leaders to enhance local decision-making and help communities respond to new challenges and opportunities.

Jill Hietpas
Community Development and Broadband Educator

Jill is working with the Chippewa Valley (Eau Claire, Dunn, and Chippewa Counties) and the Office of Broadband Sustainability in Madison, WI to address the broadband infrastructure and outreach needs of Western Wisconsin communities. Jill will work collaboratively with the Chippewa Internetworking Consortium (CINC), the Indianhead Federated Library System, and local non-profit agencies to maximize the use of broadband and improve the local economy and quality of life in the Chippewa Valley.

Building Community Capacity through Broadband (BCCB) Videos 
Building Community Capacity through Broadband (BCCB) CCB Grant Information

Training Opportunities to Help Bridge the Digital Divide

Digital Literacy Training Calendar 
Schedule a Digital Literacy Workshops and Presentations 
Learning Links of Interest
Chippewa Valley Road to Technology Resources

If you have questions regarding Broadband or computer technology, please contact:

  Jill Hietpas
  Community Development and Broadband Educator
  Phone: 715-839-4712 (Eau Claire County)
  Phone: 715-726-7957 (Chippewa County, Monday’s Only)
  Fax: (715) 839-6277
  Email: Jill.hietpas@ces.uwex.edu
  UWEX Website: http://eauclaire.uwex.edu/
  BCCB Website: http://broadband.uwex.edu/