In communities of all sizes, social isolation is an increasing concern that impacts mental health, wellbeing and overall quality of life. In New Ulm, a collaborative effort is underway to address this challenge through a new initiative designed to help residents strengthen meaningful connections and build supportive networks.
Through a partnership between CAST, Bridge on Center and the Heart of New Ulm’s Brown County Mental Health and Wellness Action Team, a new class series CONNECT: A Social Isolation Campaign was recently offered to community members seeking greater connection and belonging. This initiative was made possible through grant funding provided by South Country Health Alliance’s Community Impact Program, reflecting a shared commitment to improving mental health and reducing isolation across the region.
At the heart of this effort is a simple but powerful idea: connection matters. Whether it’s strengthening existing relationships, building new ones or feeling more connected to the community, the CONNECT program is designed to meet people where they are and offer practical tools to enhance their social wellbeing.
Participants in the program explored key strategies to:
- Enhance their social connections
- Identify and strengthen their personal support systems
- Expand networks and community resources
- Develop healthier habits around social media use
The class series is structured around the workbook “Connect: 100 Ways to Create Happiness in Your Life” by Dr. Julie Radlauer. Through guided discussions, activities and reflection, participants discover practical and accessible ways to bring more connection and joy into their daily lives.
The impact of the program was reflected not only in participation, but in the experiences shared by those involved.
Jackie Nelson, Bridge on Center coordinator, shared, “This class helped me realize how important meaningful connection is. I gained practical tools to strengthen my relationships, build a stronger support system and feel more connected to my community. I can’t speak for everyone who attended the Bridge on Center group, but I think many of us would agree that this class helped us realize we are more connected to our community than we initially thought. It also gave us great ideas and practical ways to strengthen those connections even more.”
Another initiative by the team is the creation of the Connect.Explore.Belong page on our website. This page serves as a resource for community members to explore opportunities for connection and discover ways to get involved. The page reflects the broader vision of the campaign: to help individuals not only connect, but also explore new possibilities and ultimately feel a deeper sense of belonging in New Ulm.
The CONNECT campaign represents more than just a class — it is a community-wide movement to address social isolation with compassion, intention and collaboration. By bringing together local organizations, leveraging trusted community partners and focusing on practical, human-centered strategies, this initiative is creating a pathway for stronger relationships and healthier lives.
In a time when many people are seeking connection, this partnership between CAST, Bridge on Center, the Heart of New Ulm Mental Health and Wellness Action Team and South Country Health Alliance is a reminder that meaningful change begins at the community level. Together, they are helping New Ulm not only connect — but truly belong.
Why is connection for people so important?
- The American Heart Association recognizes social isolation and loneliness as key factors affecting brain and heart health.
- Social isolation and loneliness can increase blood pressure and inflammation, worsening existing conditions and raising the risk of chronic illness and infections.
- Even small steps to increase or strengthen social connection can improve immune response and lower disease risk.
- The protective benefits of social connection start early and last throughout life.
- Spending 10 minutes outside or short breathing exercises can improve feelings of social isolation.