The Greater Milwaukee Foundation today announced the establishment of the Reasons for Hope MKE Fund to address immediate needs in Sherman Park as the community unites in its efforts to rebuild and heal in the aftermath of the violence last weekend and to advance resident-led, neighborhood efforts across the city.

Continuing its longtime commitment to strengthening neighborhoods, the Foundation will seed the new community-wide fund with an initial grant of $200,000 and invites individuals, foundations and community partners to join in support. While the initial funding is designed to provide a timely response in Sherman Park, the Foundation and other philanthropic partners have been deeply engaged in supporting resident-led, neighborhood improvement efforts across the city. This fund is the next step in strengthening those long-term efforts.

Ellen Gilligan, president and CEO of the Greater Milwaukee Foundation, said:

“As a community foundation, we are dedicated to the strength and vitality of neighborhoods throughout Milwaukee. We are listening as residents and partners in the community express both their challenges and hopes for restoring and reinforcing positive conditions and well-being in their neighborhoods. The Greater Milwaukee Foundation’s long-standing commitment to healthy neighborhoods includes deep partnerships in Sherman Park and other neighborhoods, supporting residents as they work to strengthen social connections, physical conditions and market confidence.

Community organizations in Sherman Park and across the city have been providing helping hands to people in their neighborhoods since day one. Our role is to lift up these partners and grow the resources available for their efforts. While the Foundation maintains its commitment to advancing equity and quality of life in neighborhoods throughout the region, the pressing needs of residents, businesses and properties in Sherman Park warrant urgent action. We will ensure that people are heard and that community voices are prominent in identifying the most immediate needs and actions to be taken. While the need is far greater than $200,000, it is a beginning on which we hope our generous community builds.”

Contributions to the Reasons for Hope MKE Fund will be used to support the most pressing needs in the Sherman Park area and to continue support for resident-led efforts to strengthen all neighborhoods. The Fund’s purpose and use will be determined by a community advisory committee.

Donations are being accepted at the Greater Milwaukee Foundation’s ReasonsForHopeMKEFund.org and can also be made by check payable to:

Greater Milwaukee Foundation
101 W. Pleasant St.
Suite 210
Milwaukee, WI 53212

Marshaling these resources continues the progress of a long-term effort by the Foundation, its donors and partners to address barriers and systemic inequities so that individuals and communities across our city and region can reach their full potential.

More specificity and additional information will be shared as details are finalized in the near future.