About the Project
Faces of Literacy – Voices from Our Community celebrates the cultural fabric that makes up the Fox Valley. Through a musical, storytelling-based journey, viewers can experience directly from those whose lives have been transformed by volunteer-powered literacy services at Fox Valley Literacy.
The 2025 Voices from Our Community project is comprised of original songs written by familiar Mile of Music artists inspired by the moving stories of courage and determination written by individuals living and working in our community. It’s a powerful reminder of how the skills and confidence gained through literacy can open doors to greater opportunities, a more fulfilling life, and a stronger community.
The project includes new songs from Mile of Music Artists: The Belle Weather • Laura Bomber • Amelia Ford • Christopher Gold • Michael Grabner • Kurt Gunn • Claire Kelly • Eric W. Krueger • Listening Party • Hillary Reynolds • Natural Satellite • Tom Thiel
"Daydreaming"
Song by Eric W. Krueger
You can also find all the Faces of Literacy – Voices from Our Community songs on Flipside, Appleton Public Library’s local music streaming platform.
Go to flipside.apl.org and search “Faces of Literacy”
to stream this song on your computer or mobile device.
Song Artist Statement – Daydreaming
The song "Daydreaming" came to me almost instantly after reading 5 stories from the Faces of Literacy - Voices of the Community project. While each story was unique and incredibly moving in their own right, they shared common themes of hope, perseverance, and transformation. "Daydreaming" channels those themes layered with visions of a new future paved from the inspiration of loved ones who planted the seeds to embrace change, one day at a time. It has been a privilege to be a part of such an inspiring and impactful project!
"Our Voices Are Strong"
Song by Michael Grabner
You can also find all the Faces of Literacy – Voices from Our Community songs on Flipside, Appleton Public Library’s local music streaming platform.
Go to flipside.apl.org and search “Faces of Literacy”
to stream this song on your computer or mobile device.
Song Artist Statement – Our Voices Are Strong
I was tasked with writing on the broader theme of “voices from our community,” and was also provided a number of other storyteller’s stories for inspiration. I am a firm believer that diversity is our strength in this country and locally, and that a diverse community of people that lift each other up and help each other out is an ideal to strive for. So I came at my song from that perspective, with an emphasis on the fact that we often take for granted the things that make our communities great, and that in a time of great societal unrest, our diverse voices are strong, and powerful enough to fight off the rise hate that we’re seeing. But it takes a village.
About the song artist – Eric W. Krueger
Wisconsin artist, Eric W. Krueger has a career in music spanning thirty years and it’s one that will be going for decades to come. From his first band, Treehouse, in 1994 to the various bands he’s part of today like A-Town Unplugged, Leading The Blind, and Eric W. Krueger and the Sheesh, Eric’s talent as a vocalist, guitarist, and writer is something a lot of artists only dream of. Whether he’s cranking up the volume or dialing it back, one thing can be said of his performances: he’s consistently excellent.
About the song artist – Michael Grabner
Michael Grabner is a singer-songwriter and Appleton, WI native. His unique sound is rooted in the traditions of country, folk, and rock music, and his sound is best described as Americana or alt-country. Michael cites Neil Young, Elliot Smith, and Bob Dylan as major influences. His unique vocal style, captivating lyrics, and intricate guitar picking engage his audience, whether they are listening to him live or through his work in the studio. Michael has released two full length albums- "Restart" and "A Story I Can't Tell"- and plays live at venues and festivals throughout Wisconsin.
We Thank Our Project Sponsors and Partners!
About Fox Valley Literacy
Did you know that one in seven Wisconsin adults struggles with low literacy? Literacy is the key to personal and community growth. When people’s literacy improves, their opportunities expand, and communities become stronger.
Fox Valley Literacy provides free adult education in English, General Ed, Civics & Citizenship, and Individual Projects. We rely on volunteers and donors to make these programs possible, and we’re a proud member of Wisconsin Literacy, serving the Fox Valley region.
Our services are FREE to all adult learners who seek help! We rely on the support of VOLUNTEERS and DONORS and are 100% privately funded and receive no government help. LOCAL COMMUNITY DONORS are critical to the students we serve.
