a magazine for friends of the GREATER MILWAUKEE FOUNDATION

Volume 1 Issue 2 Fall 2016 Fall 2016

Generosity 19 at Work Four years in, a Imagine the federally funded 7 power of program is helping residents secure people & resources, strengthen place Art on their resiliency and create change Discover four effective 17 display within three ways the Greater From Havenwoods distressed Milwaukee Milwaukee Foundation to Lincoln Village, neighborhoods. is making Milwaukee public art is neighborhoods and our transforming the community stronger. visual landscape and neighborhood pride.

1 Greater Milwaukee Foundation A MAGAZINE FOR FRIENDS OF THE GREATER MILWAUKEE FOUNDATION VOLUME 1 :: ISSUE 2 :: FALL 2016

PRESIDENT & CEO Ellen M. Gilligan

VICE PRESIDENT, MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS Laura Porfilio Glawe

EDITOR Becca Mader

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Wendy Rausch, Alex Vagelatos

CREATIVE DIRECTOR & DESIGNER Latino Paula J. Perez DESIGNERS 23 Study Make a Kendell Hafner, Todd Schmidt A new comprehensive 25 Difference PHOTOGRAPHER Jim Moy study on Milwaukee’s Foundation- Latino community supported Hunger EDITORIAL TEAM tells the story of the Task Force mobile Marybeth Budisch, Mary Kay Mark, Jeremy Podolski, Wendy Ponting, region’s growth market feeds families and tremendous Pa Sponcia, Darlene C. Russell and fills a void in Marcus White potential. Milwaukee-area food deserts. ON THE COVER: Milwaukee artist Tia Richardson in front of a mural she designed and painted with residents in the Mitchell Street neighborhood.

CONTACT INFORMATION Greater Together is published biannually 3 President’s message by the Greater Milwaukee Foundation's Marketing and Communications Department. 4 Foundation news | Gifts to the Community Please send your comments 5 Reasons for Hope MKE Fund or address changes to Becca Mader, 22 Grantmaking at a glance | at Greater Milwaukee Foundation, Neighborhoods 101 W. Pleasant St., Suite 210, Milwaukee, WI 27 Partners in philanthropy | Fund for Lake Michigan 53212 or send an e-mail to 29 Profile in philanthropy |Allan Kieckhafer [email protected].

31 In their own words | Milwaukee Rotary Centennial Arboretum Fund greatermilwaukeefoundation.org 32 Fund Flashback | Ernest C. and Florence M. Schocke Fund 414.272.5805 33 Giving Smarter | Wendy Rusch 34 Donor Snapshot | Veterans Memorial Park of Oconomowoc

©2016 Greater Milwaukee Foundation

Fall 2016 GREATER together 2 PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE

The play area at 67th and Spokane is one of three Milwaukee play areas being redesigned and rebuilt through the Foundation’s support of the city’s MKE Plays initiative.

BOARD OF DIRECTORS f you’re not listening, you’re not leading. Previously in disrepair, this playground I think that’s an important idea for any and others like it were developed with Cory L. Nettles, Chair I organization to consider as it plans actions residents guiding the design, which reflects David J. Kundert, Vice Chair that affect or encompass others. For a the Foundation’s commitment of “doing Mary Beth Berkes community foundation, it’s imperative. with” rather than “doing to” people and Wendy Reed Bosworth communities. David J. Drury Our ability to effectively serve and Ness Flores strengthen the community depends not only Participation fosters ownership and impact, Janine P. Geske on our willingness to listen to the community which is why the Foundation focuses on Cecelia Gore but also our insistence that priorities are bringing people together to make a greater Jacqueline Herd-Barber guided by those most directly affected by difference. As our generous donors learn Paul J. Jones decisions. When you see the results, the from our listening and invest in community- Dale Kent value of this approach is undeniable. led efforts, we collectively strengthen our Gregory S. Marcus region from the neighborhood up. Last month, I visited a playground in Marie L. O’Brien Milwaukee’s Havenwoods neighborhood Success takes many forms – from bright Gregory M. Wesley that has been transformed into a vibrant, yellow porch chairs (page 13) to small modern play space through a Foundation business development (page 15) to crime investment. As children clambered excitedly reduction (page 19). All are possible as over new equipment and sprinted through philanthropy helps empower people to fresh wood chips, I thought about how improve the places they call home. all kids deserve, but not all have access to, quality outdoor play space, and how broadening opportunities for healthy neighborhood activities depends on Ellen M. Gilligan community engagement and partnership. President & CEO Greater Milwaukee Foundation

3 Greater Milwaukee Foundation FOUNDATION NEWS GIFTS TO THE COMMUNITY Foundation offers free day of exploration along the lake ho says that nothing in life is free? place to live,” said Kathryn Dunn, the Foundation’s W vice president of community investment. “But as we On Oct. 15, individuals and families were saw and heard from patrons on Oct. 15, many families offered the opportunity to visit and explore four do not have resources to access these institutions. signature lakefront destinations at no cost, courtesy Exposing children to the arts, historic places and places of the Greater Milwaukee Foundation’s Gifts to the that stretch their imaginations contributes to the critical Community program. foundational elements of their education.” Betty Brinn Children’s Museum, Discovery World, The Gifts to the Community program was created in Milwaukee Art Museum and the Port Washington 2015 as a way to celebrate the Foundation’s centennial Historical Society’s Port Exploreum and 1860 Light year. Throughout the year, 275,000 people directly Station were the featured organizations. This year’s participated in 12 surprise gifts that engaged 25 special opportunity was presented in partnership with different partner organizations, including the Mitchell the Fund for Lake Michigan. Park Domes and the Milwaukee County Zoo. “Many in our region are familiar with the art and cultural gems that make the greater Milwaukee area a great

Six thousand people made Discovery World a destination Oct. 15. All told, nearly 12,000 people took advantage of the gift of free admission to the four lakefront museums. Fall 2016 GREATER together 4 Opportunities for HOPE HEALING& stretch citywide

n mid-August, conflict and chaos erupted in IMilwaukee’s Sherman Park neighborhood following the shooting of a man by a Milwaukee Police officer. Millions of dollars in damage was done to surrounding businesses and tensions ran high.

But as one business owner said shortly afterward, Sherman Park is a community made up of strong roots and those roots are not going to go away.

In August, the Greater Milwaukee Foundation set aside $200,000 to create the Reasons for Hope MKE Fund to not only address the neighborhood’s immediate needs but also galvanize community support around all Milwaukee neighborhoods. As news of the new fund spread, an additional 32 gifts totaling $33,920 were made by individuals, foundations and community partners. The smallest gift was $10. The largest – a $25,000 contribution – was made from the Honkamp Family Foundation, a longtime Foundation donor.

“We’ve supported more than a decade of neighborhood development and education projects with intentional giving to help break a cycle,” said Kevin Honkamp, a fund adviser and vice president of Brookfield’s Hydrite “Compassion,” a sculpture by artists Marina Lee and Ann Wydeven in Sherman Park. It was funded through Chemical Company. “Sherman Park the Foundation's Healthy Neighborhoods Initiative.

5 Greater Milwaukee Foundation is a neighborhood we are focused on. From a personal First round of grants standpoint, both my cousin and I did lots of service work there while in high school. So when we saw the request support healing, job to help restore and invest in people there, it was an training and more obvious way to help drive change we’re

interested in seeing.” Center for Youth Engagement: Support from individuals like $16,500 supported a series of events and the Honkamps served as activities in Sherman Park and nearby the fuel behind a special neighborhoods the weekend of Aug. 26 grant opportunity launched to encourage community cohesion and peace. Sept. 1 designed to support

HEALING community-based activities Frank Zeidler Center for Public Discussion: proposed by residents, $5,000 supported training for young adults grassroots groups and ages 12 to 17 in emotional and social skills neighborhood-based organizations through conflict resolution. The three 2-hour that would promote peace and build trainings included listening circles and community cohesion citywide. A An attendee of Milwaukee’s restorative conferencing, a structured dialogue 10-member committee comprised of Millwood Park Neighborhood process that explores options to heal the harm. resident leaders, young adults and Fall Family Fest. other stakeholders reviewed requests and made grant recommendations ranging from $500 to Sherman Park Community Association: $5,000. $5,000 supported Peace Garden Project MKE's efforts to serve community members, More than $40,000 was awarded through the first round families of homicide victims and youth through of grantmaking. Programs were designed to take place, peace-inspired art. The community-focused in large part, in 2016. But the Foundation’s commitment art projects repurpose vacant lots and replace to Sherman Park – and Milwaukee neighborhoods – will makeshift memorials. endure in 2017 and beyond.

“As a community foundation, we are dedicated to the Walnut Way Conservation Corp: strength and vitality of neighborhoods,” said Ellen $5,000 supported two weeks of restaurant Gilligan, Foundation president and CEO. “While the and culinary training for 20 Lindsay Heights need is far greater than $200,000, it is a beginning on residents who will be employed at The which we hope our generous community builds.” Tandem, a new restaurant in Lindsay Heights.

Woodlands Resource Center: $4,210 supported Woodlands Family Fest, a one-day festival for residents of the Woodlands Community neighborhood located north of Brown Deer Road at North 95th Street.

Northtown Church: $5,000 sponsored two events in Millwood Park Neighborhood: Fall Family Fest at Maple Tree School and a “Community Conversation” event, in partnership with Milwaukee Police Department’s District 4, For more information on Reasons for Hope MKE or to make a which allowed residents to have a discussion gift to the fund, visit reasonsforhopemkefund.org. of neighborhood and citywide issues with police officers.

Fall 2016 GREATER together 6 imagine the power of PEOPLE& PLACE

hat does it take to make a community thrive? WParticularly one like Milwaukee, which is made up of diverse neighborhoods that each has its own particular charm, distinct challenges and diverse opportunities?

It takes commitment, passion, pride and a belief that anything is possible.

Neighborhoods flourish when residents take the lead. They prosper when investments are made in small businesses, homes and parks. They succeed when neighbors know each other by name and work collectively to bring to life ideas that improve the safety, beauty and feel of the area that they call home.

The following four stories illustrate some of the ways in which the Greater Milwaukee Foundation is currently investing in people, places and partnership that collectively are advancing healthier neighborhoods and a stronger community at large.

7 Greater Milwaukee Foundation imagine the power of PEOPLE PLACE

Activist and artist Fidel Verdin (right) and friends at MLK Jr. Peace Place Park, a park he helped create in Milwaukee’s Harambee neighborhood.

Fall 2016 GREATER together 8 COVER STORY

Neighborhood Leadership Institute alumnae Jeanette Wright-Claus (left) and Maria Miramontes (right) COMMUNITY MEMBERS take training, take charge

rtist and avid gardener Jeanette Wright-Claus underway, she feels as if a whole new city is being Awas born and raised in Milwaukee. She has a built. Yet that progress doesn’t quite reach out to great affinity for the city and its people. Yet she is neighborhoods like hers in Old North Milwaukee bothered by the fact that not all neighborhoods on the northwest side. receive the same investment and attention. Thanks to the Neighborhood Leadership Institute, When she travels downtown, for example, and she has gained the skills and self-confidence to be catches a glimpse of the new construction the change she wants to see in her neighborhood.

9 Greater Milwaukee Foundation “I learned you don’t have to have a label in order to do something impactful in a positive way. Jeanette Wright-C”laus Old North Milwaukee resident

“I already knew I was passionate and the influence they provide in about having a voice in decision- neighborhoods,” said Jeanette making in our community,” Wright- Mitchell, Ed.D program director Claus said. “I learned you don’t of Cardinal Stritch University’s have to have a label in order to do Leadership Center, who helped something impactful in a positive develop the curriculum. way.” The Community Connections Neighborhood Leadership Institute participants The Greater Milwaukee Small Grants Program – a created the Community Connections Small Grants Foundation has invested more byproduct of the Neighborhood program, which supports resident-led projects as a way to continue improving their neighborhoods. than $85,000 into the 10-month Leadership Institute that is funded leadership training program since by the three foundations – gives 2012, believing that by engaging graduates a front row seat at residents like Wright-Claus and bringing about change in their and connections necessary to developing or deepening their neighborhoods as they review move their neighborhood forward. leadership skills, it offers a more and support resident driven and sustainable way of continuing the implemented projects. “Now I’m able to sit in a room and work toward improving quality of see the decision-makers and the life in Milwaukee neighborhoods. Participants have represented a movers and the shakers in the city diverse range of ages, cultures and see how things are done,” Through the program, which and experiences, a mix that said Wright-Claus, who since has is also supported by the has proven to be as rewarding worked as a community outreach Northwestern Mutual Foundation as the training sessions. Maria coordinator for Agape Community and Zilber Family Foundation, Miramontes, a Mexican native Center, headed up a community participants who work for a and 15-year Silver City resident, garden and created a weekly take training, take charge nonprofit or live in one of 23 found the program personally walking group. neighborhoods develop their transformative because of the leadership abilities, broaden their individuals she met, many of “I just want to push people to social networks and learn best whom were from north side be engaged and take charge of practices they can implement in neighborhoods she never had making decisions and choices their own neighborhood. visited. to improve neighborhoods,” she said. “Your community is only as “It is about helping them build the Fifty-six people have graduated, strong and vibrant as the people capacity to understand themselves finding the confidence, resources investing in it.”

Fall 2016 GREATER together 10 COVER STORY PATHWAY to possibilities

s a kid, Darryl Johnson grew up just He also recalls the blight caused by Ablocks from the Beerline Trail, which the departure of American Motors runs between Milwaukee’s Riverwest Corporation in 1988 and the struggles and Harambee neighborhoods. He the neighborhoods have seen since. But remembers regularly walking the gravel Johnson also has witnessed – and been a path to nearby Gordon Park and recalls part of – the incremental progress, a lot of fondly how the Great Circus Parade Train which has happened on and around the stopped to unload its freight there before now paved and extended 1.3 mile trail. heading downtown.

Artist Tyanna Buie saw her “Streetlights” sculpture along the Beerline Trail as a way to bridge the communities of Harambee and Riverwest. The sculpture was funded through the Foundation's Healthy Neighborhoods Arts Initiative.

11 Greater Milwaukee Foundation “I can see the momentum where engagement as a way to activate “Streetlights” by artist Tyanna Buie, things are starting to come public spaces and shape have popped up. back,” said Johnson, who heads community redevelopment. Buie saw her creation, a visual up Riverworks Development Groundwork for the project depiction of the bridging Corporation. “The trail is one of was laid in 2010 when the city together of two communities, as a those things we can definitely acquired the land, but work metaphor for the larger project. build upon.” began in earnest in 2014, thanks to investments by ArtPlace “We are the people who make our That’s what Riverworks, the America and later by the Kresge community what it is,” she said. Greater Milwaukee Foundation Foundation, both known for “We need to be the light in our and other partners envision with their creative placemaking work. community.” the Beerline Trail Neighborhood Collectively, the foundations have Project, a creative placemaking invested $1.6 million. The Greater Future plans include at least project that is developing new Milwaukee Foundation also has three additional murals, a project vibrancy along the former railway been a core funding partner in the supported in part by a $10,000 corridor. They view the trail as a project that is taking shape in two grant from the Foundation's Mary pathway – literally and figuratively of its Healthy Neighborhoods. L. Nohl Fund. – to strengthening the physical, economic and social vitality of two The trail has taken on new life “This area is like an open slate,” neighborhoods that have seen thanks to open mic nights, murals Johnson said. “For people who their share of challenges including and old shipping containers are visionaries, it gives them crime, unemployment and vacant turned into temporary creative an opportunity to really think properties. spaces. Fruit trees have been about the greatness and the planted. Art installations, such as possibilities.” Creative placemaking uses arts and culture and resident

“For people who are visionaries, it gives them an opportunity to really think about the greatness and the possibilities. Darryl Johnson” Riverworks Development Corporation executive director

Drummers performed along a portion of the Beerline Trail in mid-September as part of activities related to the city’s Doors Open Milwaukee event.

Fall 2016 GREATER together 12 COVER STORY

The Yellow Chair Project provided an opportunity to bring a diverse community together. Photo courtesy of Agape Community Center TAKE A SEAT Neighborhood project creates conversations, strengthens connections

uilding friendships and a sense of community take when they pooled their talents and teamwork as part Btime. But inroads can be made by something as of the Yellow Chair Project, which spruced up front simple as devoting a couple of hours and a smidge of yards and porches in the area. Agape Community sweat equity on a do-it-yourself project. Center organized the event, brought friends and neighbors together to share materials and a common That’s what residents like LaToya Smith of Milwaukee’s goal: assembling pre-cut Adirondack chairs and Thurston Woods neighborhood found in July 2015 painting them a cheery sunshine yellow hue.

13 Greater Milwaukee Foundation “The chairs allow my family to feel welcome and I really feel like our community is much safer.” LaToya Smith Thurston Woods resident

Fifty-five chairs are scattered throughout “I liked that we were able to come in their homes,” said Darlene front yards and porches in the together and do something great C. Russell, a Foundation senior neighborhood. Photo courtesy of Agape Community Center for the community,” Smith said. program officer who provides “The chairs allow my family to feel leadership and oversight to welcome and I really feel like our Healthy Neighborhoods. her son, Josiah, ultimately built community is much safer.” five chairs, including one for her When the grant opportunity neighbor who lives a couple of The project was funded through was presented to Thurston houses away. the Foundation’s model block Woods, Agape’s neighborhood program, a special component revitalization manager Karen The simple yet powerful idea was of the Healthy Neighborhoods Mierow wanted to create a project an award-winning one as well, Initiative that supports low-cost that would give neighbors a winning a Mayor’s Design Award projects that have a high impact. chance to start a dialogue. She in 2016. Mierow envisions the Fifty-five chairs were built, fueled believed creating chairs would block project as a model for other by a $3,000 investment each from create a conversation. neighborhoods. Layton Boulevard the Foundation and Agape. West, Harambee and Riverwest That’s exactly what Smith found already have expressed interest. The Foundation has invested when she participated this $16,079 in seven model past summer, when the project “Whether it is a social connection, block projects across seven returned due to neighborhood an identity to the landscape, neighborhoods since 2015. demand. She moved into Thurston or a way to tactically instigate Woods in March and noticed the change, I hope any community “We saw it as a way to provide prevalence of yellow chairs in front that considers a project like this neighborhoods an opportunity to yards. She immediately wanted understands that by working celebrate small wins, strengthen to be part of the unity that they collaboratively, an individual residents’ pride and encourage symbolized for the neighborhood. becomes their own agent of homeowners to continue to invest After contacting Mierow, she and change,” she said.

Fall 2016 GREATER together 14 COVER STORY BOOSTING SMALL BUSINESS

amara Johnson and April Finley both With the help of Wisconsin Women’s Thad been working in the health care Business Initiative Corporation, the pair field in different communities for nearly developed a business plan, received two decades before they met, discovered business coaching and training and their shared compassion and entertained secured a $15,000 loan to open Kastle the idea of venturing out on their own. Communities, an adult family home set to welcome its first set of clients this fall. Caring for others – particularly adults with disabilities – came naturally to them. “Just to know that someone will go to bat Business acumen, however, did not. for you is amazing,” Finley said.

Tamara Johnson (left) and April Finley (right) of Kastle Communities with their WWBIC coach and small business consultant, Lynn Keckeisen (center).

15 Greater Milwaukee Foundation We need to remove the obstacles and improve “ access to resources that allow diverse small businesses and entrepreneurs to thrive. Darlene C. Russell” Greater Milwaukee Foundation senior program officer

Recognizing that small business low for small business startups owners like Johnson and Finley compared to 15 other similar JoAnne and Maanaan Sabir, WWBIC are critical to the economic growth regions. Despite minorities clients and owners of The Juice Kitchen, of a community like Milwaukee, comprising 37.5 percent of the a locally sourced juicing company in Lindsay Heights. Photo provided by the Greater Milwaukee Foundation population, only 12.3 percent of WWBIC. has partnered with and invested Milwaukee businesses are minority in WWBIC for nearly 30 years to owned, according to WWBIC. “This leveraged significant help spur job creation, particularly national support for micro and by targeting underserved In 2016, the Foundation provided small business education, coupled populations including women, a $150,000 grant to help WWBIC with targeted loan capital,” said minorities and lower-wealth target individuals in underserved Wendy Baumann, WWBIC’s individuals. It was one of WWBIC’s areas – the Near West Side and president and chief visionary initial funders and has provided Transform Milwaukee area, which officer. “We will be able to focus in more than $770,000 in grants includes neighborhoods around the heart of Milwaukee now with since to support its growth. the Menomonee Valley, 30th even greater depth and breadth.” Street Industrial Corridor, Harbor “Communities are strong when District and Riverworks. The grant As a successful entrepreneur and the economies are fair and matches funding provided by as someone who has mentored inclusive and work for everyone,” Wells Fargo Diverse Community multiple minority-run businesses, said Darlene C. Russell, senior Capital Fund and will serve 225 Foundation donor Terry Anderson program officer who heads up entrepreneurs over two years. understands the powerful impact the Foundation’s neighborhood of small businesses. Impressed grantmaking. ”To reach those “Small businesses are an by WWBIC’s success, his fund has goals, we need to remove the integral part of the fabric of supported the organization in obstacles and improve access to every neighborhood and every the past. resources that allow diverse small community,” said Kathryn Dunn, businesses and entrepreneurs Foundation vice president of “Nine out of 10 businesses go to thrive.” community investment. “Certainly out of business within 10 years,” these businesses offer critical he said. “WWBIC takes city folks Small business ownership is not goods and services to neighbors without much money and teaches an area in which Milwaukee or the but also serve as places of them how to run a successful region fares well. According to the employment and contribute to business. It doesn’t just throw Foundation’s 2015 “Vital Signs: one’s sense of quality of life in people out there. They can always Benchmarking Metro Milwaukee” the community.” come back for help.” report, metro Milwaukee ranks

Fall 2016 GREATER together 16 ART on display Foundation-funded public art projects add color, points of pride to area neighborhoods Concrete sculptures in late artist Mary Nohl’s Fox Point property, which are undergoing restoration, thanks to a grant from the Foundation.

“Benches of Havenwoods,” is a set of new public art pieces that creates a new identity for the northwest side Milwaukee neighborhood. This industrial bench was created by artist Ann Mory Wydeven, Monarch Corporation and Hentzen Coatings and can be found on the corner of 60th Street and Florist Avenue.

17 Greater Milwaukee Foundation Photo by Allison Steines, Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service

(Above) Wisconsin Black Historical Society director Clayborn Benson and artist George Gist in front of the new mural that adorns the side of the nonprofit’s Sherman Park building. It replaces one that was originally created in the 1990s.

(Above) Kinnickinnic River Neighborhood residents provided input and ideas into the two Marina Lee-designed whimsical benches that are perched around the perimeter of Pulaski Park.

(Left) A group of totem poles in Kosciuszko Park, designed by artist Juan Flores, features images that represent the great ethnic and cultural diversity of the Lincoln Village neighborhood on Milwaukee’s south side. Fall 2016 GREATER together 18 GENEROSITY AT WORK

DETERMINED TO CHANGE THEIR REALITIES Foundation matches funds for program that catalyzes community-driven change

ilwaukee’s Amani, Metcalfe Park and Muskego Way neighborhoods have struggled for Myears with blighted properties, high poverty and unemployment rates, disinvestment, and as a result, disempowerment.

But three residents who call those neighborhoods home, Octavia Parker, Danell Cross and Paula Jones are determined to change the reality and destiny of the people who live there. Their hope drives them and the Building Neighborhood Capacity Program, a 4-year-old federal program, is giving them the knowledge, resources, skills and opportunities to create transformation.

While their neighborhoods still face ongoing challenges, each is showing signs of revitalization and new hope, as evidenced by new parks, increased resident engagement and decreased crime.

Deborah Armstrong, Bethesda Baptist Pastor Robert Armstrong and Octavia Parker, a BNCP community organizer, at the first Amani community cookout. The cookout is one of many activities and projects designed to strengthen the neighborhood.

19 Greater Milwaukee Foundation Between 250 and 300 people attended the summer cookout in Amani.

STABILIZING capacity, both at the resident NEIGHBORHOODS and community level. To date, “You take pride in your the Foundation has provided neighborhood and your $295,000 in matching funds neighborhood will come back to toward BNCP. flourish,” said Parker, an Amani resident and community organizer Since 2006, through its Healthy with BNCP. Neighborhoods Initiative, the Foundation has focused its REVITALIZING BNCP operates under the principle neighborhood grantmaking PLACES AND TRUST that when empowered, community largely on Milwaukee’s middle Years ago, Amani was known residents can be the best catalysts market neighborhoods. More than as one of the premiere middle for change. Milwaukee was $4 million in grants over the past class neighborhoods for African selected in 2012 to participate in 11 years has supported projects Americans, said Patricia Rogers, the program, which offers training, that have helped residents executive director of the technical assistance and resources strengthen social connections, Dominican Center for Women. to distressed neighborhoods that stabilize the real estate market, historically have encountered improve physical conditions and “Now it’s known for any deficit you barriers to revitalization. Flint, promote positive image in 19 can find in an urban community,” Michigan; Fresno, California; and different neighborhoods. she said. Amani has 38 percent Memphis, Tennessee also were unemployment and 52 percent of chosen. BNCP neighborhoods are not residents living in poverty. middle market; they face greater A cross-sector partnership of challenges and deeper histories of Neighborhood safety and lack about 15 of Milwaukee’s civic, disinvestment. of jobs for young adults are business, philanthropic and among Metcalfe Park’s struggles, community leaders pledged their “We wanted to increase Cross said. support to bring the program to the capacity to stabilize Milwaukee, citing the potential neighborhoods beyond our With nearly 34,000 residents in to better align resources and Healthy Neighborhoods 1.5 square miles, Muskego Way leverage investments as an and viewed BNCP as a great is the most densely populated. important reason. opportunity to address challenges It is more ethnically and racially in Milwaukee’s neighborhoods in a diverse, a strength and a BNCP was a natural fit for the more comprehensive and cohesive challenge, said resident Paula Greater Milwaukee Foundation manner,” said Kathryn Dunn, the Jones, who moved there from the because of its history and desire Foundation’s vice president of suburbs 1-1/2 years ago. to improve neighborhood community investment.

“You take pride in your neighborhood and your neighborhood will come back to flourish.” Octavia Parker Amani resident and BNCP community organizer

Fall 2016 GREATER together 20 GENEROSITY AT WORK

“It can be challenging to identify REDUCED CRIME, NEW and Safe and Sound, efforts that shared goals in an area populated JOBS AND MORE have led in part to a 21 percent by so many different kinds of Four years in, success stories reduction in crime. Jones and people,” she said. have emerged. A neighborhood others transformed a vacant lot group – Amani United – formed into a new gathering place that Through BNCP, each and Parker notes how turnout boasts a colorful mural inspired by neighborhood is tasked with at monthly meetings continues residents and created by artist Tia creating a revitalization plan. to grow. Residents mobilized to Richardson. A lead agency oversees the provide design input into the $2 program for each neighborhood; million revamped Moody Park, “The mural brings clear evidence residents identify priority areas. winning such elements as a full that working together can make Community organizers like walking track and water fountains. a tangible difference,” Jones Amani’s Parker, Metcalfe Park’s They’ve also held block clean-ups, said. “There is a sense here of Cross and Muskego Way’s Juanita resource fairs and vacant being on the cusp of something Valcarcel act as galvanizing forces lot parties. progressively new in urban to connect residents to resources. development.” “Residents now are able to All three areas have assets to build challenge the powers to be in a Despite federal funding ending in upon – whether anchor institutions way in which they can be heard,” October, local funders, partners like Amani’s Dominican Center, Rogers said. and residents have vowed to committed residents like Metcalfe continue the work because of the Park’s Cross or Muskego Way’s Metcalfe Park residents created momentum established. diversity. a job training program that engaged young adults to install “We’ve seen what happens when Getting residents engaged takes rain gardens and rain barrels. you build the capacity of residents time, especially to earn their trust. A neighborhood group called by connecting them to resources,” Community Bridges was born said LaQuondra Shaw, program “The impact of hopelessness, and residents developed stronger officer at Northwestern Mutual futility and fear is debilitating,” relationships with the police. Foundation. “It’s quite amazing!" Jones said. “Individuals don't feel as if their participation will make a Muskego Way residents formed difference.” three new block clubs and have worked But partners find it ultimately can closely with MPD be more powerful and viable.

“It’s harder when you work with residents like me, because it takes more time,” Cross said. “But it’s more sustainable because I’m still here.”

Milwaukee artist and south side resident Tia Richardson in front of a mural she designed and painted with residents in the Mitchell Street neighborhood.

21 Greater Milwaukee Foundation GRANTMAKING AT A GLANCE

Strong and healthy neighborhoods are critical to the overall health and well-being of a city and its residents. That is why the Greater Milwaukee Foundation WAYS has invested in and worked we are making an with community development 3 corporations, neighborhood impact in neighborhoods improvement programs, government and local and national Community Development Alliance groups to strengthen Milwaukee’s The Foundation is a founding partner of the Community Development Alliance, a residents and its neighborhoods. consortium of nearly 90 members that began in 2010 in an effort to align place- based activities and investments in Milwaukee neighborhoods. Representing foundations, banks, government and other stakeholders, members meet quarterly to discuss neighborhood issues. The alliance has collaborated on several projects including the Neighborhood Leadership Institute, a resident leadership development program, and attracted national resources for Partners for Places, which developed 20 vacant lots into orchards and pocket parks.

Neighborhood news Milwaukee’s neighborhoods have a lot of assets that often go unnoticed or underreported. Believing it’s important to raise the visibility of the powerful work for change underway in area neighborhoods, the Greater Milwaukee Foundation has invested in two area news outlets – Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service and 88.9 Radio Milwaukee – so they can share these stories.

Healthy Neighborhoods Initiative Since the Foundation launched Healthy Neighborhoods Initiative in 2005, it has coordinated monthly meetings among the neighborhood lead agencies as a way to create synergy, build trust and understanding and create a learning community. Neighborhood coordinators share resources and information about upcoming projects, and collaborate on projects across neighborhoods.

Cherry Street Park

2016 NEIGHBORHOOD GRANTMAKING Contact Darlene C. Russell, $1.02 million our senior program officer, at Total investment in strengthening neighborhoods 414.336.7044, to learn more about our investments in neighborhood and (which includes Healthy Neighborhoods Initiative community development. and Reasons for Hope MKE fund grants) $4 million Total investment in Healthy Neighborhoods Initiative since 2005 Fall 2016 GREATER together 22 COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

A look at the Latino community New Foundation study underscores significant role of Milwaukee’s growing population

f not for the growth in metro since 2000, as well as all the to be the first comprehensive IMilwaukee’s Hispanic community, enrollment growth in the study of metro Milwaukee’s our region’s population would be region’s public schools. Latino community. The Greater all but stagnant. Milwaukee Foundation These findings were among commissioned the University of Growth in the Hispanic community the many discovered through Wisconsin-Milwaukee to conduct accounted for virtually all the “Latino Milwaukee: A Statistical the study, which was released population growth in Milwaukee Portrait,” which is believed earlier this year.

“The findings underscore the significant role the Latino community will play in the future of our region,” said Marcus White, the Foundation's vice president of civic engagement. “To be a globally-competitive, 21st century region, we need a diverse and vibrant population. The youthfulness of the Latino community is very promising for that future. At the same time, this report presents us with important questions to explore together as a region in order to assure that promising future.”

The study examines in great detail how Latino Milwaukee has changed through the years, how the Latino community compares to other groups in metro Milwaukee, and how conditions for Latinos in this region compare to those in the 50 largest U.S. metropolitan areas.

A K4 student at Nativity Jesuit Academy.

23 Greater Milwaukee Foundation LATINO POPULATION GROWTH

of the net population growth in metro Milwaukee and all of the net population 90% growth in the city of Milwaukee since 2000.

SCHOOL ENROLLMENT IN METRO MILWAUKEE

Total non-Hispanic enrollment Latino enrollment declined by 32,000. grew by almost 22,000.

1997-98 275,419 1997-98 19,331 2013-14 243,159 2013-14 41,225 A fifth grader at Nativity Jesuit.

Sue Smith, president of Nativity The school hopes to increase making rules,” Aldrete said. “What Jesuit Academy on Milwaukee’s its enrollment to nearly 380 studies such as this continue south side, knew the Hispanic students from its current 200 to highlight is our need and community was the area’s fastest students by 2024 – and plans to willingness to acknowledge how growing, but even she found the use data from the study in its we need to improve.” numbers remarkable. The school efforts. Aldrete was born in Milwaukee, is dedicated to educating students “The study could not have been but lived in Mexico until age from the Hispanic community and better timed for us because it 11, when she returned to is using survey results to plan its confirmed that our strategic the city (“I’m an example of expansion from a middle school to enrollment growth plans are reverse immigration.”) She a K4-8 academy. on mark and that we must is profoundly aware that the “Of all the statistics, the ones that respond to the increased need Hispanic community is close-knit, are most striking are how Latinos in our community,” Smith said. religious, dedicated to hard work represent all the net growth in “Especially when there are and education and eager to do K-12 enrollment and how strong expected to be nearly 20,000 volunteer and service work. the desire is to attend a private Latino children ages 9 years and As the leader of a nonprofit school,” Smith said. “Plus, Latinos younger living in the Nativity that supports Hispanic students are the fastest growing segment neighborhood by 2018.” and professionals in nonprofits, of the Catholic Church and the The growth in Milwaukee’s governments and corporations, most underserved by Catholic Latino community also did Aldrete is well aware of both schools.” not surprise Griselda Aldrete, the community’s potential and As the school’s board of directors executive director of the the disparities between it and was considering expansion plans, Hispanic Professionals of Greater other groups. as well as its capital campaign, Milwaukee and a member of the “Latino population growth is like the survey provided strong study’s advisory committee. the sleeping giant in Milwaukee,” evidence. Nearly 18 percent of “We are a community that is Aldrete said. “We’ve always been all metro Milwaukee Latino growing very rapidly, but are here and been growing. There’s students attended private still underrepresented in a lot of no more ‘if, when and how.’” schools in 2011-12, the highest areas, such as policy decisions and percentage of Latino K-12 students attending private schools among the nation’s 50 The full study is available at greatermilwaukeefoundation. largest metro areas. org/latinostudy. Contact Marcus White at 414.336.7026 for further information on the study or to schedule a briefing for your organization.

Fall 2016 GREATER together 24 MAKE A DIFFERENCE FILLING the VOID Donors and Hunger Task Force bring fresh food to area food deserts

The Pick ‘n Save Fresh Picks Mobile Market makes 35 stops each month across Milwaukee County to meal sites, food pantries and senior housing complexes, like 25 Greater Milwaukee Foundation Juniper and Canticle Court in St. Francis. We think the mobile market is a great way to reach“ people living in our community who may not have access to fresh, wholesome food. ” -Lindsay Stevens Gardner, adviser to the Kopmeier Family Fund and mobile market supporter

ell before the 100-foot trailer Pick ‘n Save, Milwaukee County Along with other staples, the Wfrom the Hunger Task Force and Hunger Task Force are partners mobile market offers more than – full of fresh produce, meat, eggs, in the Pick ‘n Save Fresh Picks 40 seasonal fruits and vegetables bread and milk – pulls into the Mobile Market, the grocery store and more than 10 high-demand lot behind the Canticle & Juniper on wheels which travels Monday meat and dairy items. The market the VOID Courts senior apartments in St. through Friday year-round to does not sell canned items or Francis, some of its patrons are neighborhoods and communities processed foods. Walk-ups are waiting patiently. with limited access to fresh and encouraged; anyone can use the healthy foods. It enables people mobile market when it’s parked The stop is one of two this day. in underserved neighborhoods, and open for business. Average The other is at nearby Sacred food deserts (defined by the sales per site have risen from Heart Senior Apartments, one American Nutrition Association $73 in 2015 to $480. of 35, monthly 90-minute stops. as areas in which healthful fresh Each month since October 2015, Sherrie Tussler, Hunger Task Force’s foods are more difficult to purchase the trailer and its heavy-duty executive director, said the former because of a lack of grocery stores, pickup truck have visited locations NASCAR trailer has proved to be farmers’ markets and healthy food in Milwaukee County, loaded with efficient in its task. The high volume providers), senior centers and other fresh food. of meat sales made a powerful locations to purchase healthy and point: People with limited access to Agnes Passafaro has been waiting nutritious food at discounted prices. grocery stores or with low incomes an hour, although she sheepishly Hunger Task Force received a sometimes skip buying meat, an admits she had the time wrong. $100,000 federal Food Insecurity important source of protein. “I was here early. But that’s not a Nutrition Incentive grant enabling That’s not a problem for David problem. It’s such a beautiful day it to offer a 25 percent discount. Kulesza, 62, who rests on a and I love the shopping. It’s very, In addition, the Greater Milwaukee bench with a bag of fruits and very convenient,” said Passafaro, Foundation recently awarded the vegetables: “I don’t like to shop, so 84. “I got milk, eggs, meat, produce, program a $20,000 grant. this eliminates one trip to the store. things I really need. I usually spend They always have what we need.” around $10.”

FUNDING NEEDS: $3,600 supports Mobile Market fuel costs for one year $6,000 supports Mobile Market operations for one month $36,000 supports Mobile Market operations for six months

INTERESTED IN INVESTING IN THIS PROJECT? Contact Marybeth Budisch at [email protected] or 414.336.7068 to make a gift from your fund.

Fall 2016 GREATER together 26 PARTNERS IN PHILANTHROPY

The Fund for Lake Michigan, a donor advised fund at the Greater Milwaukee Foundation is a sponsor of Sturgeon Fest, an annual event that introduces baby sturgeon back into the Milwaukee River Watershed with the hopes of reestablishing a breeding population of the prehistoric fish after a 100-year absence.

27 Greater Milwaukee Foundation Add

Fund for Lake Michigan CLEARLY MAKING A DEEP IMPACT

t’s helped prehistoric fish Clean Wisconsin and Sierra governments while others have Imake a comeback in southeast Club to address concerns over included nonprofits, universities, Wisconsin, breathed new life into the expansion of the Oak Creek utilities and faith-based groups. a 24-acre blighted and neglected Power Plant along the shores of The fund’s impact transcends the industrial property in the Lake Michigan. That agreement environment. Since 2011, it has Menomonee Valley and improved provided quite a boon for the created over 800 full-time jobs, water quality and access to local environment: a commitment added $65 million to the local beaches along the lakefront. to infuse $4 million annually to economy and leveraged about area projects that will restore and Not too shabby for a fund that’s $35 million in public and private protect the quality of our backyard only five years old. But that investments. beauty and treasured national doesn’t even scratch the surface resource: Lake Michigan. And it is just getting started. The at the kind of impact that the Fund agreement calls for investments in for Lake Michigan has had in the In that time, the fund has awarded the health of Lake Michigan and area. 216 grants totaling more than its communities through 2035. $15 million. Grants have ranged The donor advised fund was in size from $500 to $500,000, So get ready, southeastern created as result of an agreement with an average amount of about Wisconsin. The work has just between We Energies, Madison $70,000. Roughly one third of the begun. Gas and Electric, WPPI Energy, fund’s grantees have been local

Learn about the fund’s grantmaking history and its impact on the health of Lake Michigan by visiting www.fundforlakemichigan.org.

Fall 2016 GREATER together 28 PROFILE IN PHILANTHROPY

COMMITTED to serving community& country t 92, Allan Kieckhafer has an Among the many organizations Kieckhafer Charitable Fund, which Aencyclopedic memory of the assisted by the Kieckhafers are the he created in 2014 at the West community he has spent a lifetime Cedar Lakes Conservation Foundation; Bend Community Foundation, a supporting. his alma mater Beloit College; the West partner foundation of the Greater Bend High Schools Columns Fund for Milwaukee Foundation. His Born and raised in West Bend, scholarships; BloodCenter of Wisconsin attorney and long-time West Bend Kieckhafer rose to key sales and sales and Wisconsin Historical Foundation. resident, Jim Spella, encouraged management positions in the West And that’s just the short list. him to start a fund because of the Bend Aluminum Company, from which tax and administrative benefits. he retired in 1987. He and his late On May 29, 1987, West Bend wife Jean had four children and 11 celebrated Allan C. Kieckhafer Day in “Working with the Foundation is a grandchildren. honor of his philanthropic efforts. much better way for me to handle my gifts,” he said. Through their adult lives, the couple Allan has supported many of the gave back to West Bend and the region same organizations for decades and Kieckhafer’s story is also that of through many philanthropic endeavors. now does so through the Allan C. three prominent and generous West Bend families who share ties to the former West Bend Aluminum Company. Betty Nelson

29 Greater Milwaukee Foundation “ No one is more committed to the West Bend community than Allan. Laurie Winters ” Executive director, Musuem of Wisconsin Art

– whose husband Cliff was a When Jean Kieckhafer was co-founder with Douglas Ziegler concerned about her health, Allan of the West Bend Community left the West Bend Company and Foundation – has known the two spent the next 10 years Kieckhafer since kindergarten. The traveling. They visited 69 countries Nelsons, Kieckhafers and Zieglers before Jean’s death in 2007. were friends, and shared a love for Despite the years of giving, and the West Bend community. deep appreciation of many, it’s not Betty Nelson has her own take on easy for Allan to explain his drive Kieckhafer and the crew survived her friend’s philanthropy. to help his community. Often, the the Battle of Leyte, and also fought stories are personal and reflect his “He was a child of family with at Iwo Jima, Saipan, Guam and hands-on approach. some means; his father was Okinawa. president of the West Bend His charitable relation with the He returned home, finished Aluminum Company,” Nelson Boy Scouts is Kieckhafer’s oldest. school, married Jean, and began said. “He probably realized he had He started Boy Scout Troop 80 for his career. many advantages as a young man his two sons and others and was a and he wants to continue on to key member of regional Boy Scout Perhaps Kieckhafer’s most visible help people.” organizations. contribution can be found at the Museum of Wisconsin Art, where And it could be that Kieckhafer is Another insight into Kieckhafer’s he has served as a board member also a Wisconsin-born-and-bred personality may be found in his and major contributor to its new really nice guy. pride of military service. He joined building, which includes the Jean the Navy at age 18 and ended up “Allan still drives his car and is and Allan Kieckhafer Gallery. as a lieutenant JG with its Asian so generous about picking up Amphibious Fleet. Kieckhafer continues to support any one of us who needs a ride,” the museum’s educational Nelson said. “If someone asks him, “We were on a Landing Ship-Tank, program and special events. he’ll take you.” transporting tanks to beaches during invasions,” he said. “The “No one is more committed to the Nelson said her late husband and ship had a number, but no name, West Bend community than Allan,” Kieckhafer shared many values, because we were expendable. We said Laurie Winters, the museum’s even if they came from different didn’t tell the crewmen that.” executive director. backgrounds.

Contact Philanthropic Adviser Will Janisch at 414.336.7062 or [email protected] to discuss ways in which you can give back to support your community.

Fall 2016 GREATER together 30 IN THEIR OWN WORDS

New fund protects and preserves urban oasis Milwaukee Rotary Centennial Arboretum Fund

ot every organization turns blighted piece of property into a N100, so when it does reach living classroom where people can such a milestone, it wants to make go and enjoy the outdoors in the sure it celebrates in a memorable city and kids can learn to value the way. For the Rotary Club of environment. Milwaukee, that meant providing a gift to the community that would Why create a fund at the Greater long outlast it and its nearly 400 Milwaukee Foundation? members. Ken Leinbach (UEC executive It chose a project in conjunction director): The Foundation has with the Urban Ecology Center been part of the beginning of that converted industrial land many things in this community, Mary McCormick, executive director of the Rotary donated by the late Pieter Godfrey one of which is the Urban Club, and John Franke, a Foundation donor whose Ecology Center. We felt a level fund helped support the Arboretum’s 3 Billion Year into a natural jewel in the heart of Walk, a new path of rock sculptures. Milwaukee. Called the Milwaukee of confidence that our funds Rotary Centennial Arboretum, would be well taken care of at the Foundation because that is what the urban oasis opened in 2013, beautiful. There is some donor they do and we have relationships spans 40 acres and extends from recognition for the preservation North Avenue to Locust Street. with people who do it. fund we still have going and some In 2015, the two organizations Mary: We see the Arboretum as signage. Some erosion control created an agency endowment at a community asset. Having it at that needed to be done that the Greater Milwaukee Foundation the Foundation gives it a greater wasn’t in the original plan. to contribute to its continued sense of community ownership. preservation. Mary: By the end of 2017, it We believe it is a force for good in should be at a $1 million, which is What attracted Rotary to the idea the community and we know our a good start to have to protect and funds will be well managed and of the Arboretum? preserve. We really do want to see protected. Mary McCormick (Rotary Club it grow and change and see it be a executive director): It really What are your plans for the vibrant asset for our community. brought together Rotary’s Arboretum over the next 12 to 18 commitment and passion around months? education and taking care of the environment. We had the Ken: This fund will be used to opportunity to transform this forever keep the Arboretum

The Arboretum offers the Urban Ecology Center additional outdoor classroom space to educate area children and families. 31 Greater Milwaukee Foundation FUND FLASHBACK

Bequest broadens public appreciation for Wisconsin communities Ernest C. and Florence M. Schocke Fund

magine traveling to more than a and Florence M. Schocke Fund, McGivern and Milwaukee-born Idozen Wisconsin communities a designated fund created after historian and author John Gurda each year, visiting some of the Ernest Schocke passed away at – spends about a week in each best businesses, sports teams and age 98, leaving a $2.4 million community and speaks to up to gems those areas have to offer bequest to the Greater Milwaukee two dozen people to get a flavor and discovering what makes each Foundation. The WWII veteran was of each area. truly unique – for free. an instructor at MATC for 38 years It’s a concept that truly has gained and believed in the impact of That’s what “Around the Corner a following. The show consistently public broadcasting. He specified with John McGivern,” a half-hour is the highest rated local show that 75 percent of his fund series produced by Milwaukee on MPTV, has been picked up by support MPTV and PBS nature Public Television, provides viewers Minnesota Public TV and Chicago and documentary programs. each season, thanks to the Public TV and is the highest-rated The remaining percent supports generosity of a Greater Milwaukee show on any PBS affiliate in the WUWM. Foundation donor. country in its time slot. The program has showcased 78 It takes a look at what it’s like to “Around the Corner with John locations, traveling as far south as live, work and play in Wisconsin McGivern” airs 7 p.m. on Beloit to as far north as Bayfield. communities. Its first episode Thursdays on MPTV. Its sixth The MPTV crew – which includes debuted Jan. 26, 2012, thanks to season began Jan. 5, 2017. Emmy Award-winning actor John the generosity of the Ernest C.

The Around the Corner crew has traveled to 78 communities since 2012. Photo by Lois Maurer Fall 2016 GREATER together 32 GIVING SMARTER

Publicly Traded Securities - The Smart Gift

by WENDY RUSCH Rusch is a shareholder in Reinhart, Boerner Van Deuren's Trusts and Estates and Corporate Law practices

onors have many choices equal to the securities' fair market you should first sell the securities Dwhen deciding which value as of the date of the gift. and then donate the sale assets to give to charity. One of At the same time, you and the proceeds to charity. You can then the smartest choices from an charity both avoid paying capital realize the loss on the sale and income tax perspective may be gains tax on any appreciation receive an income tax charitable publicly traded securities—stocks in the securities' value since deduction equal to the value of and bonds—owned by a donor. you acquired them. As such, the cash contribution. There are several reasons why it’s beneficial for you to give the As with all charitable gifts, there publicly traded securities make charity the appreciated securities are limits on the deduction an excellent charitable gift. First, themselves—not the proceeds of depending on your income, so if the securities have appreciated their sale. If you sell the securities check with your tax adviser on (increased in value) since they and then donate the proceeds to your specific situation. were acquired, you can give them the charity, you will be taxed on to charity without recognizing the gain. The end of the year is traditionally taxable gain. Second, in general, a popular time to make charitable Publicly traded securities that are because they are publicly traded, gifts. This year, consider donating held for less than 12 months and the securities are easily valued, your winning stocks or bonds one day are considered "short- eliminating the need for an directly to your fund at the Greater term" securities. Your deduction appraisal. Third, publicly traded Milwaukee Foundation and save for a gift of short-term securities securities are easy to transfer. some tax dollars while helping to a public charity is limited to others. The length of time you have held the lesser of your basis in the the publicly traded securities securities or the fair market value affects the tax consequences of of the securities. From an income For more information about the donation. If you have held tax perspective, therefore, it is less them for at least 12 months and advantageous to donate short- donating stocks, bonds or one day, they are considered term publicly traded securities to mutual funds to the Greater "long-term" securities. When charity. Milwaukee Foundation, contact donating long-term securities to Mary Kay Mark, Director of Gift Planning, at Of course, not all securities a public charity, you receive an appreciate. If the publicly traded [email protected] or income tax charitable deduction securities have declined in value, 414.336.7066.

Please note: The election is over and we are looking at a rare instance in which one party controls both chambers of Congress and the White House. With that comes the probability of tax reform, including changes in the deductibility of charitable contributions. With future deductibility highly uncertain, and with the recent run up in equity markets, now is the ideal time to make those charitable contributions from your appreciated securities. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to make a gift and lock in your income tax deduction before tax changes occur. For more information, contact Mary Kay Mark, director of gift planning, at 414.336.7066.

33 Greater Milwaukee Foundation DONOR SNAPSHOT

Local philanthropists pool money to provide living tribute to area veterans

ow does a community When it came to designing the branches and a curved honor walk Hproperly honor those men memorial, resident and former bearing the names of 3,500 area and women who have given their Marine Mac Dorn and his friend, veterans. lives to their country? Kurt Schrang, were determined to Ultimately, $550,000 was do it right, no matter the cost. No In Oconomowoc, gratitude raised solely through private price could be put on the sacrifice takes the shape of a majestic donations, a goal the pair set that area veterans made through memorial on a one-acre green from the beginning. It was one their military service. They worked space overlooking Lac La Belle. easily accomplished through the with four area veterans groups Called Veterans Memorial Park of likes of community contributors on the details, which include Oconomowoc, the one-year-old such as the Oconomowoc Area two Fort-style entry structures, city park pays tribute to veterans Foundation, a partner foundation a water fountain surrounded stretching as far back as the War of the Greater Milwaukee by five 24-foot-tall white pillars of 1812. Foundation. representing the five military

Fall 2016 GREATER together 34 Nonprofit Organization U.S. Postage PAID Milwaukee, Wis. Permit No. 3121 101 W. Pleasant St. . Suite 210 Milwaukee, WI 53213

GreaterMilwaukeeFoundation.com

facebook.com/GreaterMilwaukeeFoundation

twitter.com/GrMkeFdn

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This fall, the Foundation made a $100,000 grant toward restoration work at late artist Mary L. Nohl’s Fox Point property, which is recognized on the National Register of Historic Places. Funding supports preservation of the iconic cement sculptures, which have fallen into disrepair due to weather and neglect.