Making a Difference in Point: A Community Leader's Journey

Since moving to Point in 1994, Judi Cumley has been an active and dedicated member of the Portage County community. Originally from California, she and her husband, Gary, settled in the area when he took a job at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point. Over the years, they have become well-established, with a network of friends, engagement in social activities, and, most significantly, a strong presence in the local faith community.

Judi's journey of community involvement began at Redeemer Lutheran Church, where she embraced her faith and found her passion for volunteering. In her years at Redeemer, she held various leadership positions, including Education Director, Financial Secretary, President, and Treasurer. 

About six years ago, Redeemer Lutheran Church joined forces with Intercession Episcopal, creating the Beloved Community, a community of Lutherans and Episcopalians committed to learning from each other and meeting local needs. Naturally, Judi has been an active part of leading this charge. Her motivation for getting involved in helping local people in need, stems from her deep-seated desire to help those who are struggling, whether emotionally, financially, or in any other way. She firmly believes that by being a listening ear and offering support, she can make a meaningful difference in people's lives.

Judi's professional background as a former special educator specializing in Assistive Technology has equipped her with the knowledge and experience to assist individuals who face various challenges in life. Whether it's physical disabilities, emotional difficulties, financial instability, or unmentioned struggles, Judi believes that a strong community is one where members work together and support one another.

Through the Beloved Community, Judi volunteers with multiple organizations, including the Compassion Response Team which provides support and resources to people in need locally and globally. Judi is also a companion with One Big Tent, a group of various local faith-based organizations that work together to connect people in need with local resources. One Big Tent is based in the IDEA Center located at 1039B Ellis St, Stevens Point, WI 54481. First and foremost, as a companion, she listens to the people she works with. Then she helps them connect with needed resources.  In addition to working directly with the public, Judi is also on the board of One Big Tent. 

Her volunteer work extends to the city housing assistance program,  RentReady, where she is also a companion.  Here Judi helps people find housing and just like with One Big Tent, she listens first and builds relationships. 

Some of Judi’s most memorable moments are when her neighbors through The Beloved Community remember her not by name but by the kindness and help, she has offered. Many of her neighbors find solace in attending the church's gatherings on Wednesdays, knowing that they will be met with love and respect.

Looking ahead, Judi envisions her work positively impacting Portage County by fostering growth and expanding services and commitment to help those in need. Her involvement with organizations like One Big Tent, and the Compassion Response Team, contribute to the advancement of the community's support systems. She reminds us that small steps can have a big impact. For example, a brief encounter with a gas station clerk who learned about her efforts to provide gas cards to struggling neighbors led to more people getting involved. This demonstrates how small actions can inspire others to volunteer and make a positive impact in their community. If you want to get involved with these organizations, reach out via the links in this article.