Tempo Racine upcoming events

Breaking Free, Building Forward: Resources That Change Lives (Thursday, May 14, 2026)

Thu, 14 May 2026 16:30:00 GMT

Our May Tempo Racine program features two local nonprofits who support women through what can be isolating and scary experiences. BeLEAF Survivors and Women's Resource Center serve as lifelines for those facing unimaginable circumstances. These organizations provide safe shelter, counseling, legal advocacy, a 24-hour hotline, and medical advocacy for survivors of sexual assault and domestic violence, as well as women starting over independently after leaving abusive situations. Through real stories and practical insights, the session emphasizes resilience, community impact, and the importance of accessible, around-the-clock resources that empower survivors to heal, regain stability, and move forward with dignity and hope.

Samantha Sustachek is BeLEAF Survivor's Co-Director-Operations. In her role, Samantha tends to administrative duties and the day to day running of the agency and provides support to program staff.

In 2003, Samantha received a B.S. in Psychology with a minor in Criminal Justice from UW-Parkside. She joined Sexual Assault Services in 2005 as the Volunteer and Community Education Coordinator, took on the role of Family Support Advocate in 2009, and transitioned into the position of Program Supervisor in 2015, Program Director in 2021, and Co-Director in 2025.

Annabell Bustillos is the Co-Director-Programs at BeLEAF Survivors, where she oversees Sexual Assault Services (SAS) and Stop Child Abuse and Neglect (SCAN). Annabell’s career with SAS began in 2013 as the Bilingual Outreach Advocate (BOA), providing direct services to Spanish-speaking survivors and their support networks, including personal, legal, and medical advocacy.

Annabell’s deep passion for advocating for survivors in her community drives her ongoing commitment to making a lasting impact. Her promotion to Co-Director in 2025 is a significant milestone in her dedication to empowering and supporting survivors.

Jori Chambers is the Executive Director of the Women's Resource Center. Jori has spent the past eight years serving survivors and families at WRC, where she is dedicated to supporting safety, healing, and empowerment. Jori holds a Bachelor’s degree in Juvenile Justice and Child Protective Services from Bellevue University and an Associate’s degree in Human Services from Gateway Technical College. In addition to being a Leadership Racine graduate, Jori earned a certificate in Nonprofit Management, strengthening her commitment to effective leadership and community impact.

Tempo Racine's Annual Book Talks and State of Tempo (Thursday, June 11, 2026)

Thu, 11 Jun 2026 16:30:00 GMT

What's the last book that you just couldn't put down? Or the podcast episode that kept you thinking for days? We want to hear all about it at our annual Tempo Racine Book Talk program!

Each attendee is invited to share a book or podcast episode that has impacted them in some way. Whether it's a life-changing read, a recent favorite, or just a fun book you're enjoying right now, bring it along and share why it resonates with you. The book does not have to be business-related—this is about connecting through stories and discovering new reads together!

What is a book talk?
A book talk is like a commercial, advertisement or trailer designed to create interest and motivate people to want to learn more. It's not a review or a book report. A book report tells somebody you read the book; a book talk tries to convince the person to read the book. The key to book talking is to "sell, don't tell." Learn more HERE.

Do I have to share?
Nope! Feel free to attend, listen in, and leave with a list of books and podcasts that will keep you entertained and thinking for weeks to come.

If you would like to share, please indicate that at registration so that we can plan a schedule that allows for everyone who would like to share to do so!

Before the book talks begin, we'll enjoy lunch, networking and a brief State of Tempo presentation.

Save the date! Tempo Racine's Annual Summer Picnic (Thursday, July 09, 2026)

Thu, 09 Jul 2026 16:30:00 GMT

Event details and registration coming soon!

Save the date! The Arts in Racine County (Thursday, September 10, 2026)

Thu, 10 Sep 2026 16:30:00 GMT

Our September 2026 speaker is Diane Carlson, executive director of the Racine Arts Council.

Full event details and registration information coming soon!