Click here to read the testimonies from 40Plus Alumni 

40 Plus of Southeastern Wisconsin proudly celebrated its 50th Anniversary in June 2026, marking five decades of helping job seekers and professionals navigate career transitions through education, networking, and peer support. It was a special night of celebration and connection. The evening honored the founders, longtime volunteers, facilitators, and board members whose dedication has sustained the organization for 50 years. Vice President Amy Whittenberger shared President Dennis Cherne’s (not present) reflection on the organization’s history, mission, and continued commitment to serving the community.

Executive Director, Robert Bachman, presented the highlight of the evening, which was hearing from a dozen 40Plus alumni who shared how 40Plus played a meaningful role in their career journeys. Their stories were a powerful reminder of the lasting impact the organization has had on thousands of individuals over the past five decades.

40 Plus also recognized WaterStone Bank for being our very first meeting and gathering place for the past five decades, and whose generosity and support have been foundational to our growth, connection, and community. In honor of the milestone, WaterStone Bank presented a $500 donation to support the organization’s ongoing mission. The celebration also featured a generous Dale Carnegie course raffle donated by Steve Bobowski, awarded to Nancy Kugel, as well as 40Plus raffling their recommended set of job search books to several 40Plus job seekers.

We extend our sincere gratitude to every volunteer, facilitator, board member, sponsor, donor, and participant who has contributed to the success of 40 Plus. These 50 years are a tribute to the people, stories, and relationships that have made 40Plus what it is today. We are proud of our mission of “putting experience to work” day after day, year after year, decade after decade.  As we celebrate this milestone, we look ahead with the same spirit of service and commitment, while remaining a trusted community where experience is valued, connections are built, and futures are shaped.