WISCONSIN DELLS, Wis. (June 24, 2026) — The spirit of community was on full display Wednesday as hundreds of international BridgeUSA J-1 Summer Work Travel participants gathered at Intrax Residence Housing (IRH) for the "Red, White & You" Community Block Party, an event dedicated to welcoming exchange visitors to Wisconsin Dells while connecting them with the local resources they need for a safe and successful summer.
The annual event brought together employers, public safety officials, financial institutions, volunteers, local businesses, and community leaders to introduce exchange visitors to the people and organizations that help make Wisconsin Dells one of the nation's premier destinations for cultural exchange.
Students enjoyed free food and refreshments provided by BCT-Dells, a faith-based volunteer organization that supports international exchange visitors throughout the summer. They also participated in the Ronald McDonald Service Project, learning about the importance of volunteerism and giving back to the communities that host them.
Representatives from U.S. Bank, Associated Bank, and Cricket Wireless were on hand to answer questions about banking, financial safety and mobile phone services.
Safety was another major focus of the event. Members of the Lake Delton Fire Department, Lake Delton Police Department, and local EMS personnel met with exchange visitors to discuss emergency services, personal safety, and how to access help if needed while living and working in the area.
For students interested in expanding their cultural experience through additional employment, representatives from Great Wolf Lodge—along with the resort's popular mascot, Wiley—conducted interviews for approved second job opportunities.
The event also featured a photo booth, free bicycle safety lights, games, and giveaways donated by community sponsors.
Wisconsin State Representative Tony Kurtz attended the event, spending time visiting with exchange visitors, employers, and community partners. Representative Kurtz asked thoughtful questions about the BridgeUSA J-1 Summer Work Travel Program and learned more about the important role international exchange visitors play in supporting Wisconsin's tourism industry while fostering cultural understanding.
For Stacie Tollaksen, leader of the BridgeUSA J-1 Community Support Group, the event represents much more than a community gathering.
"The Wisconsin Dells community is proud to welcome BridgeUSA J-1 Summer Work Travel participants from around the world," Tollaksen said. "These exchange visitors travel to the United States not only to gain valuable work experience, but also to learn about American culture and share their own cultures with our community."
She emphasized that helping students feel informed and connected is one of the keys to a successful exchange experience.
"By ensuring exchange visitors know where to turn for assistance and understand how to stay safe while living and working in the Wisconsin Dells area, we help create a positive, rewarding, and successful cultural exchange experience for everyone involved."
The "Red, White & You" Community Block Party reflects the collaborative efforts of local employers, nonprofit organizations, government agencies, businesses, sponsors and volunteers who work together each summer to ensure international students have the support they need while experiencing life in the United States.
As the Wisconsin Dells tourism season reaches its busiest months, the event serves as a reminder that the area's success depends not only on welcoming visitors, but also on welcoming the thousands of young people from around the world who help make each summer possible.
