Investing in Our Future: VARC President | CEO Liz Filter Engages with Governor Evers on Community Needs

LA CROSSE, WI.—Governor Tony Evers and a host of local leaders held an essential talk back in February to discuss the area's most vital funding issues. This roundtable held at the La Crosse Public Library underscored the need for steady investments in childcare, disability initiatives, and, quite pointedly, workforce development.

As the 2025-27 biennial budget approaches, Governor Evers painted a picture of relief that zeroes in on the daily costs that stretch family budgets. He talked about the costs of childcare, medical prescriptions, and state taxes that family budgets shouldn't have to bear. "That's a big deal," Evers said. And no wonder. Wisconsin families face enough economic headwinds without the state doing anything to exacerbate them.

This meeting was an opportunity for VARC to advocate for vital community programs that support their clients with disabilities. "What we're talking about today impacts everybody," said Liz Filter, VARC President | CEO. "Childcare impacts everyone, and our workforce, whether you have kids or not. Programming and services around support for people with disabilities affect not only the families and individuals served, but our local businesses in which they work."

Photo courtesy of WXOW News 19

The governor's proposed budget seeks to eliminate sales taxes on essential items for families and working individuals. It also proposes an earned income tax credit as a means to facilitate tax relief for those trying to get by on low incomes.

At the talk participants shared an array of personal stories and insights that highlighted the different kinds of experiences families and individuals have in the community. They made the case for an economically supportive, all-in mandate that sees and serves the whole family. Additionally, they underscored the need for an approach to economic support that respects the interconnectedness of childcare, services for people with disabilities, and workforce development.