community initiative
community initiative
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These days, every dollar matters. For families navigating rising costs and tighter budgets, and for local businesses working hard to keep their doors open, the choices we make about where we spend our money can make a real difference.
So this holiday season, make your spending mean something more.
When you shop at a locally owned business, you’re supporting a neighbor, sustaining local jobs, and helping create the kind of vibrant, interesting, one-of-a-kind community we all want to call home.
The huge online and big box retailers will be just fine without a few of your purchases this year. But for a small business right here in the Chippewa Valley, those purchases can mean the world.
We know not everyone has extra money to spend this year. And that’s not what we’re asking. We’re simply encouraging you to think about where the dollars you’re already planning to spend could make the biggest difference.
Because when we support local, we support each other, and we support a stronger community.
More if you can. Less if that’s what works for you. But every purchase, every recommendation, and every choice makes a difference. Of all those who pledge and share their commitment on social media, one person will win a $1,000 shopping spree across many of the participating retailers, restaurants, and organizations.
Three other winners will win $50 in gift cards.*
Add your name to the list.
(appears here, and on the Volume One home page)
* No actual purchase is required for entry into the $1000 Shopping Spree drawing. Just your pledge to buy local, and sharing that pledge. Shopping spree will be in the form of $25 gift cards to a wide array of locally-owned businesses. Winners will be drawn and notified December 21, 2026.
“I will buy local this year.”
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Shop small, shop local. Explore the Chippewa Valley’s independent shops, makers, and retailers, whether in person or online. You might discover a new favorite.
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Give experiences. Choose gift cards, tickets, memberships, or experiences from local restaurants, theaters, venues, attractions, and non-profits.
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Make a day of it. Bring a friend, explore a shopping district, grab a meal, and enjoy the places that make our community special.
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Give back. Support a local nonprofit or community organization doing meaningful work right here at home.
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Spread the love. Recommend a favorite local business, share its posts, leave a positive review, or tell a friend. Supporting local doesn’t always require spending money.