APA-WI President’s Message 26.03

a note from my role as president of the American Planning Association - Wisconsin Chapter:

So much of the work we do is invisible.

Even for those of us who are out in front – facilitating meetings, building things, or leading [insert process] processes. So much of what matters happens behind the scenes.

It’s the relationships that we build over time. The trust we cultivate in each other. The amount of thought that we give to the impacts of every decision, and the care we put into every word of a plan, an ordinance, and a memo, knowing they shape real outcomes in the world around us.

We’re a profession that holds itself to a high standard. We know that what we do matters. But when we care so much about communities, people, and getting it right – it can take something out of us.

I’ve been feeling it lately. And I don’t think I’m alone in it.

So this month, I want to say it out loud. The invisible work matters. The care you bring to it matters. And even if it doesn’t feel seen – I can promise you that it’s felt by this community.

If you’re feeling the weight like I am, I hope you’re also finding moments to center care for yourself. This work only continues if we can.