MADISON (WTAQ-WLUK) — A Kaukauna resident was presented the Wisconsin Heroes Award Thursday at the state capitol for her dedication to suicide awareness.
Barb Bigalke, the founder and executive director of the Center for Suicide Awareness, received the award from First Lady Tonette Walker.
“It’s an incredible honor to be recognized by the state. It’s not really about the recognition, but it’s that we’re doing incredible work. We are really appreciative of the work that we do, saying hey, you’re making a difference in the state of Wisconsin,” Bigalke said.
The recognition is awarded each month by Mrs. Walker to a Wisconsin resident who uses their time, effort and ideas to make the state a better place.
The Center for Suicide Awareness is a non-profit that provides education training and resources to individuals, schools, families, and businesses who need them.
The center also operates Hopeline, the only Wisconsin text-based emotional support service.


