Paul Soglin: Waxing America

Congratulations Madison Public Library!

I was pleased to hear that the Madison Public Library has been placed among the 30 finalists for the 2016 National Medal for Museum and Library Service! The National Medal, presented by the Institute of Museum and Library Service, recognizes institutions that have shown a commitment to innovative public service in their community.

For years the Madison Public Libraries have provided accessible facilities for learning, activities, children’s programming, and internet access. I could not be more proud of the work they have done thus far and will continue to do to serve our Madison community and am confident that they are deserving of this recognition. Congratulations on this achievement and thank you for all you do!

Project SOAR Kickoff

Recently I joined 100 Black Men of Madison President, Dr. Floyd Rose; Madison Metropolitan School District Superintendent, Dr. Jennifer Cheatham; United Way of Dane County President and CEO, Renee Moe; Police Chief Mike Koval; County Executive Joe Parisi; Journey Mental Health Executive Director, Bill Greer; and CUNA Mutual Executive Director, Steve Goldberg, to kick off the 100 Black Men's new initiative, Student Opportunities, Access and Readiness or Project SOAR.

Photo Credit: Paul McMahon

Under Project SOAR, 100 Black Men and community partners will mentor 300 African American male students, ages 12-17, who are currently enrolled in the Madison Public School District. The Project SOAR mentoring program will pay particular attention to those students who are economically disadvantaged, from single parent homes, homeless, in foster care, or in the juvenile justice system.

When conducting the youth and young adult surveys and interviews for President Barack Obama's My Brother's Keeper (MBK) Madison initiative, our boys and young men of color frequently mentioned a desire to see increased opportunities for mentorship. I am pleased to support Project SOAR as it aligns with our MBK Madison goals and seeks to address a critical need within our Madison community.