Every day, there are stories unfolding across Janesville and Rock County that are helping shape our community's future. Businesses are expanding. Employers are investing in their workforce. Community organizations are partnering to solve challenges. Local leaders are making decisions that will impact our economy for years to come.

But none of that work has its full impact if people don't know it's happening.

That's the focus of this month's Forward Thinking column, now published in The Janesville Gazette.

In the column, Forward Janesville President & CEO Shar Hermanson explores why communication is about much more than sharing news. It's about helping businesses, residents and community partners understand the "why" behind the work — whether that's workforce development, housing, economic development or celebrating the milestones that make our community stronger.

The column also introduces Forward Motion, Forward Janesville's new weekly email designed to help member businesses stay informed about the initiatives, partnerships and opportunities moving our region forward. While Forward Motion is a benefit of membership, many of the stories it highlights are shared publicly through our blog, social media channels and community events because an informed community is a stronger community.

As Shar writes, communities don't move forward simply because good work is happening. They move forward when people understand that work, recognize how it's connected and discover where they can play a role.

We invite you to read the full column to learn why staying informed — and staying connected — matters to the future of Janesville and Rock County.

Read the full Forward Thinking column in The Janesville Gazette here