Northwestern Mutual commits to neighborhoods revitalization with nearly $1.7 million in grants | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Jessamyn Spaulding
July 18, 2019
Northwestern Mutual, through its Foundation, is invested in building the capacity of Milwaukee neighborhoods and residents to create a stronger city. Today, the company announced nearly $1.7 million in grants to local nonprofits and organizations that drive community development through housing support, access to youth and family resources, food programs and more.
Since 2013, Northwestern Mutual has invested in Milwaukee’s Amani, Metcalfe Park and Muskego Way neighborhoods, supporting nonprofits focused on fostering safe neighborhoods, healthy and thriving youth, strong families and quality education.
“Partnering with residents and neighborhood organizations is critical to understanding the challenges and opportunities in our city,” said Eric Christophersen, President, Northwestern Mutual Foundation. “Together, we’re laying the foundation for long-term, sustainable impact in Milwaukee.”
Spotlight: Amani Housing Strategy
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The Amani Housing Strategy was developed in partnership with residents, stakeholders and community partners to address the critical need for quality and affordable housing in the Amani neighborhood. The comprehensive plan will engage those already living in and serving the community to improve existing and new housing stock and expand the range of quality developments in the neighborhood. The strategy will concentrate resources to transform neighborhoods block by block.
A collaborative team representing LISC, Dominican Center, Amani United, Ezekiel CDC, and Northwestern Mutual will pilot this concept on a single block in Amani beginning this summer and continuing through 2020. The pilot will connect residents to existing housing programs, engage the community in the revitalization process, and provide residents with on-site training to learn transferable skills.
“The Amani Housing Strategy will not only improve the physical infrastructure of our neighborhood, but it will also deepen the sense of community and connection among neighbors, leading to improved safety, health and economic opportunity for Amani residents,” said Dominican Center Executive Director Sr. Patricia Rogers.
Existing Northwestern Mutual partners like Milwaukee Habitat for Humanitywill be among the many organizations contributing to the Amani Housing strategy. Earlier this year, the non-profit partnered with Northwestern Mutual for two Rock the Blockvolunteer events to engage neighborhood residents in beautification and improvement projects in both Amani and Metcalfe Park, including the pilot block.
The company recently unveiled a new piece of original artwork highlighting Milwaukee Habitat for Humanity, created by Evelyn Patricia Terry, in its public art exhibit, Giving Gallery: Turn Your Hope Into Action
All grant recipients are required to show measurable impact and results of their programs.
Locally, the company also collaborates with partners to improve education and make Milwaukee a great place to live. Nationally, the company supports research to find a cure for childhood cancer.