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Northwestern Mutual, through its Foundation, today announced more than $1 million in grants to 25 nonprofits through the company’s neighborhood grants program. The grants will support initiatives dedicated to effecting change in the Amani, Metcalfe Park and Muskego Way neighborhoods in Milwaukee.
Since 2013, Northwestern Mutual has invested in these neighborhoods, supporting nonprofits focused on fostering safe neighborhoods, healthy and thriving youth, strong families and quality education. More than 70,000 residents living in these areas benefit from the programming these organizations offer.
“The strength of our community is shown by the residents spearheading efforts in these neighborhoods, which will create a lasting impact,” said Eric Christophersen, president, Northwestern Mutual Foundation. “With the support of local programs and organizations, they’re influencing positive changes that will continue to drive Milwaukee toward a better tomorrow.”
Teens Grow Greens Spotlight
One of this year’s grant recipients is Teens Grow Greens, an organization that instills teenagers with valuable life skills through a nine-month paid internship. Over the duration of the internship, these teens plant, tend and harvest fresh produce at gardens in Milwaukee and then mentor elementary students on these skills. The grant will support the expansion of the program to the Amani neighborhood.
“Experiential learning in nature can have an incredible impact on helping children develop a sense of purpose,” said Charlie Uihlein, executive director, Teens Grow Greens. “We’re very thankful to be partnering with Northwestern Mutual to bring our program to the Amani neighborhood and help local youth discover their potential for growth.”
Graduates of Teens Grow Greens complete their internships with resumes of work experience and supportive references. In fact, 93 percent of all graduates were able to obtain employment or attend pre-college programs during the summer of 2017, and all graduates have graduated or are on track to graduate high school.
2017 Neighborhood Grant Recipients:
ACTS Community Development Corporation, Artists Working in Education, Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Milwaukee, COA Youth & Family Centers, Data You Can Use, Dominican Center for Women, Feeding America, Frank Zeidler Center for Public Discussion, Harry and Rose Samson Family Jewish Community Center, Journey House, Junior Achievement of Wisconsin, Legal Aid Society of Milwaukee, Local Initiatives Support Corporation, Metcalfe Park Neighborhood Association, Milwaukee Christian Center, Milwaukee Community Business Collaborative, Milwaukee Repertory Theater, Neighborhood News Service, Pathfinders, PEARLS for Teen Girls, Rogers Memorial Hospital Foundation, Safe & Sound, Sixteenth Street Community Health Center, Sojourner Family Peace Center, Teens Grow Greens and The Parenting Network
All grant recipients are required to show measurable impact and results of their programs.
Locally, Northwestern Mutual also collaborates with partners to improve education and make Milwaukee a great place to live, work and play. Nationally, the company supports research to find a cure for childhood cancer.
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