Justin Brown, Founder & Executive Director, Fox Cities RISE
E: [email protected]
P: (920) 574-0442
Chamber Ambassador since 2026
Fox Cities RISE stands for Resources for Interview Success & Employment. We help adults strengthen their interview readiness, build confidence, practice real interview conversations, and connect with supportive professionals from across the community.
Through structured mock interviews, practical feedback, coaching, and career-readiness resources, RISE gives people a safe place to prepare before an employment opportunity is on the line. We are not a staffing or job-placement agency. Our goal is to help people recognize and communicate the value they already possess so they can approach their next interview with greater confidence, clarity, and preparation.
What do you most enjoy about working in the Fox Cities?
I originally moved to Appleton in 2013 for a job, but I found something much bigger—a community that became home. I built lasting friendships, found the love of my life, and discovered how much the Fox Cities has to offer. From professional opportunities and community events to great restaurants, outdoor spaces, and a strong sense of connection, this area has given me so much more than I expected when I first arrived.
Why did you become a member of the Fox Cities Chamber?
I first joined the Fox Cities Chamber through a previous employer for a ribbon cutting ceremony, but I quickly realized there was so much more value beyond that one event. The public calendar, networking opportunities, community visibility, and ability to connect with other local professionals made it clear how important the Chamber is to the Fox Cities business community.
When I started Fox Cities RISE as a nonprofit, signing up for the Chamber was one of the first things I wanted to do. I had already seen the value firsthand, and I knew RISE needed to be connected to the people, businesses, and organizations that care about strengthening this community.
Please share your favorite/most impactful moment as a Fox Cities Chamber Ambassador.
Because I am still early in my Ambassador journey, my most impactful moments have come from seeing how much difference a simple welcome, conversation, or introduction can make.
As an Ambassador, I have the opportunity to help people feel more comfortable walking into Chamber events, especially when they may not know many people yet. I know how powerful it can be when someone takes the time to make a room feel less intimidating, introduce you to the right person, or help you see where you fit.
Those moments remind me why I wanted to become an Ambassador in the first place. It is not just about attending events or representing the Chamber. It is about helping create a community where people feel seen, supported, and connected.
How do you help make the member experience an impactful experience at the Fox Cities Chamber?
I help make the member experience more impactful by helping people understand what the Chamber itself has to offer. There are so many resources, events, introductions, and opportunities available, but sometimes members need someone to help them see where to start.
At networking events, I try to connect people with others who may be valuable to know, whether that is a business contact, community partner, or simply someone who can make them feel more comfortable in the room. I also strongly encourage members to attend events consistently, because the real value of the Chamber often grows through showing up, building relationships, and staying engaged.
Do you have any advice for someone considering joining the Fox Cities Chamber?
My advice would be to join, but do not just join on paper. Show up, introduce yourself, attend events, ask questions, and let people get to know you.
The Fox Cities Chamber is more than a membership. In many ways, you are joining a family that wants to see you succeed and will not let you fail quietly. There are people here who will make introductions, offer guidance, share opportunities, and help you find your place.
The value comes from being present and engaged. The more you participate, the more relationships you build, and those relationships can become one of the most meaningful parts of your Chamber experience.