Nestled on Houdini Plaza, our Family Resource Center will shine as a beacon of community spirit in Appleton’s vibrant downtown, surrounded by cultural landmarks and educational spaces. This historic location will remain a cherished asset, now filled with fresh opportunities for families. With parks, schools, the public library, and the Building for Kids nearby, the center will be a convenient, inspiring place for all.
ANNOUNCING
a program powered by first 5 fox valley
We are thrilled to unveil our most exciting project yet—the transformation of the historic downtown Appleton Trout Museum Building into the Together for Families: Fox Valley Family Resource Center. At the heart of this vision is our mission: to create a place that welcomes all families to lead, learn, and play through the power of connections. This incredible new center will burst with energy and possibility—a vibrant hub where families can access a wealth of resources, take part in enriching parent education programs, and enjoy a free, year-round public play space. More than a building, it will be a true community anchor—sparking belonging, connection, and joy among families.
The Need
In the Fox Valley, many families face challenges—from economic insecurity to limited access to services that support healthy child development. Navigating a complex web of resources can be overwhelming and discouraging.
Family Resource Centers change that—empowering parents, building social connections, and reducing stress. Every dollar invested delivers strong social returns and measurable savings in child welfare. Families gain stability, health, and support; children thrive with greater academic success, stability, and lower rates of abuse.
The Data
Backed by Research,
Built for Families
This snapshot of data only begins to show the importance of this work. The response to the need has been invaluable in moving this project forward. Together, we are building stronger families, healthier communities, and a brighter future for our children. The facts that follow reflect what both the data—and the families themselves—continue to affirm: when we invest in Family Resource Centers, everyone benefits.
We’re in a Gap Zone
68% of Wisconsin counties have FRCs—yet Outagamie County is one of the few without one nearby, with the closest located in Green Bay (32 miles away) and Fond du Lac (49 miles away).
Overwhelming Support
270 community members signed a letter of support, 60 agencies endorsed or signed on, and partnership agreements are underway to strengthen and expand family support services through collaboration.
Addressing Loneliness
In Wisconsin, 65% of parents, 69% of mothers, and 77% of single parents report feeling lonely. FRCs help bridge that gap by creating spaces where families can connect and belong.
34,203 Families
In 2023, 34,203 families were served by Family Resource Centers across Wisconsin—a powerful reminder of their value. Where FRCs exist, families show up, find support, and strengthen their connections to community.
Restoring Balance
Nearly half (48%) say stress is overwhelming most days—compared to just 26% of non-parents. FRCs reduce isolation and stress by offering connection, community, and support for parents, helping restore balance in lives.
High ROI
Every $1 invested in FRCs returns $4.93 in social benefits and $3.65 in child welfare savings—strengthening families, preventing crises, and building a stronger, healthier, more resilient community.
The Project
What is a Family Resource Center?
A Place for Families to Connect
Family Resource Centers are welcoming community hubs where parents, caregivers, and children come together. Families find a safe place to build relationships, share experiences, and access support that helps them thrive.
Support That Meets Families Where They Are
From parenting classes and playgroups to resource navigation, referrals, and play areas—FRCs meet families where they are. Support groups, developmental screenings, and parent leadership opportunities ensure help is meaningful, relevant, and responsive to each community’s needs.
Collaboration Under One Roof
FRCs bring family-serving organizations under one roof, creating opportunities for collaboration and shared solutions. By working together, these partners expand access to services, reduce duplication, and improve outcomes for the entire community.
Creating the Foundation for Bright Futures
Research shows FRCs reduce isolation, increase economic stability, and strengthen family health. The result is a stronger, more connected community where children grow up safe, supported, and ready to succeed.
The Vision
The Fox Valley Family Resource Center
A Program Powered By First 5 Fox Valley
Our ambitious renovation of the Trout Museum building at 111 W. College Avenue, Appleton, WI, marks a monumental step forward. In July 2024 – July 2025, we purchased the building, launched the Capital Campaign, and began planning and design—laying the groundwork for an incredible transformation. From August 2025 – September 2026, renovations will reshape the facility with a new roof, solar panels, HVAC systems, energy-efficient lighting, and mechanical innovations, while we also hire the FRC Director and secure partner agency leases. This building will also feature an exciting new play space for children.
Fall 2026 will bring the grand opening of the Together for Families: Fox Valley Family Resource Center—a momentous occasion that will mark the beginning of a new era for families in our community.
Below, you’ll find the giving levels and architectural renderings that bring this vision to life—showing exactly how your support will help transform the space into a vibrant hub for families.
The Preview
A First Look at Each Level of the Family Resource Center
STREET LEVEL: A dynamic family welcome desk, a large interactive play exhibit open year-round, a play space designated for infants and toddlers, a cozy baby store for exchange and resale of baby/child items, a toy-lending library.
LEVEL 2: A family wellness studio, art and technology innovations, books & puzzles, and space for community partners to connect families with resources.
LEVEL 3: Early Learning Center - a space for childcare, preschool classes, or short-term drop-off childcare.
LEVEL 4: Partner office space where partner agencies can collaborate with one another and meet with families, including a meeting room for services like play therapy and health/vision screenings.
LEVEL 5: State-of-the-art training and meeting space for up to 75 people including room for parent education and agency meetings, all equipped with cutting-edge technology.
The People
Hear the Stories, Join the Journey
From our team and volunteers to parent ambassadors and donors—every voice adds power to this movement. We’ve gathered just a few stories of impact to show how, together, we’re building a thriving community where all families feel valued and children have the best start in life.
Come see the difference being made, feel the impact, and join us in creating a lasting legacy for families in the Fox Valley. Your support will help write the next chapter of this extraordinary journey.
The Funding
Investing Wisely.
Supporting Families.
Sustaining the Future.Our fundraising goal is $8,000,000, divided into three key areas of donor support:
- $5,500,000: Purchase of the Trout Building, renovation, and remodeling
- $1,000,000: $575,000 program start up and sustainability and $425,000 project contingency
- $1,500,000: Operating reserve and ongoing sustainability for program and building support
Fundraising To Date
*Figures updated monthly | As of September 2026
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0
Public Grants
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Foundations
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Corporations
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Families & Individuals
The Future
Building a
Stronger Community
CREATING A LEGACY
A SUSTAINABLE FUTURE
The Family Resource Center will provide prime office space to 15 organizations, encouraging collaboration and delivering vital services. Child care classrooms on the 3rd floor will generate income, supporting financial sustainability. Campaign funds are dedicated to an Endowment/Board designated reserve, securing the center’s future so it remains a trusted community resource for years to come.
EXPANDING OUR REACH
Our support for families extends far and wide. The Fox Valley Family Resource Center will serve as a dynamic central hub, with additional “spokes” across the region. We are conducting listening sessions in under resourced and rural communities to shape our support around local needs, ensuring every neighborhood is included, valued, and empowered to thrive in ways that make sense for them.
