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By Tristen Shorter, Milwaukee Parks Foundation
MILWAUKEE, WI ā Milwaukee Parks Foundation (MPF) announced the launch of its 2026ā2029 Strategic Plan. The Foundation aims to invest $10 million into Milwaukee County Parks and engage 24,000 peopleĀ in park programs, events and volunteer opportunities by the end of 2029. The strategic plan reinforces Milwaukee Parks Foundation’s mission to collectively steward a thriving park system and its vision of a vibrant and equitable park system for all.
“Milwaukee’s parks are where our community comes together,” said Rebecca Stoner, Executive Director of Milwaukee Parks Foundation. “The past few years Milwaukee Parks Foundation has established itselfĀ as a leading force for high quality park investment. This plan reflects our continued, deep commitment to ensuring every neighborhood has access to vibrant, welcoming, and equitable park spaces.ā
The four-year plan, developed with support from KIN Consultant Group and Leading Inside Out, is built around three priorities:
Invest in parks: Double investments in park infrastructure and community-led programming, prioritizing neighborhoods with the greatest needs using Milwaukee County Parks’ Equity Index.
Advocacy and Engagement: Expand storytelling, advocacy and volunteer engagement to inspire more residents to support and champion Milwaukee County Parks, while securing $500,000 in government grants.Ā
Capacity and Excellence: Raise $9.5 million in philanthropic support, establish a $1 million endowment, and grow partnerships with businesses and community organizations.
Since its founding in 2019, MPF has become a driving force behind park improvements, community partnerships and neighborhood activations across Milwaukee County. In just six years, the organization has pledged or invested more than $4.3 million across 77 projects, programs and events in more than 40 parks, engaged 16,000 people through park experiences, and mobilized more than 6,000 volunteer hours from board members and community leaders. The new strategic plan builds on that momentum with a bold vision for the future.
As Milwaukee County continues to grow and evolve, MPF believes parks will play an even greater role in strengthening neighborhoods, improving public health, fostering environmental resilience and creating spaces where every resident feels they belong. Community members, businesses and philanthropic partners are invited to support the plan by volunteering, investing or advocating for Milwaukee County Parks.
To learn more about Milwaukee Parks Foundation’s 2026ā2029 Strategic Plan and how to get involved, visit mkeparksfoundation.org.Ā
About Milwaukee Parks Foundation:
Milwaukee Parks Foundation (MPF) was established in 2019 with the mission to collectively steward a thriving park system. The Foundation fosters dynamic connections through our land and community, expanding what is possible in our neighborhoods, and engaging residents in supporting a safe and vibrant parks system that benefits all. Milwaukee Parks Foundation provides support where itās most needed, complementing Parks operations and expanding Milwaukee County Parks’ engagement capacity while cultivating philanthropic support and community involvement. For additional information, visit mkeparksfoundation.org.Ā
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