1. African American Chamber of Commerce Wisconsin
Gant made in honor of AAWF’s 20th Anniversary. The African American Women’s Fund was established in 1999 and is dedicated to funding programs that support the health, well-being, and advancement of African American women and girls in greater Milwaukee.
2. Economic Development/Community Investment: Legacy, A Co-Working and Innovation Space
The Chamber recognizes the distinctive opportunity to provide an inspiring environment designed for minority entrepreneurs, innovators and influencers, where a variety of start-ups and freelancers can incubate, receive business development support, and network to explore their potential. Legacy supports individuals with ideas that grow into viable products and services. Ultimately, the Chamber creates economic vibrancy that fortifies African American communities and families through strong businesses. According to Fortune Magazine, the number of businesses owned by African American women grew 322% between 1997 and 2015, making African American women the fastest growing group of entrepreneurs in the U.S. We witness this phenomenon in Milwaukee. Of the 33 participants in our RISE Entrepreneurial Training Program, 31 are African American women. These entrepreneurs run successful, innovative businesses including AP Makeup Academy, Bronzeville Collective, Lush Popcorn, and PumpFive that provide important services and employment while building community.
The Legacy Co-Working and Innovation Space represents a commitment to members and the community, to be a catalyst for business growth now and into the future, by establishing a one-of-a-kind facility in the heart of Milwaukee. This inspiring, accessible and safe space for African American Entrepreneurs will advance Milwaukee and Wisconsin now and in the future. Legacy will be located on Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Drive in the Bronzeville neighborhood and offer affordable workspace and encourage partnerships in support of entrepreneurial growth and sustainability.
3. Foundations for Freedom, Inc.
This grant made in honor of Betty J. Thompson Memorial. The Betty J. Thompson Memorial was established in 2005. Founder and Executive Director of Project Equality, Betty Thompson provided years of passionate and relentless work for justice and equality in Milwaukee. Her leadership, commitment and legacy continues to make a difference in the lives of African-American women.
Funding mission work related to human trafficking.
Foundations for Freedom is on the frontline of eradicating human trafficking through education, advocacy, awareness, and prevention whihc strengthening women and girls, and reducing vulnerabillities that are magnets for traffickers.
4. House of Peace
In honor of Marie Crockett Memorial. The Marie Crockett Memorial was established in 2006 as a reminder of the leadership and commitment that she made in the lives of women. Marie Crockett inspired and influenced thousands of Milwaukeeans for more than 30 years as a social service director, cultural/arts advocate, government liaison and mentor for future leaders. She is remembered for her energy, determination, positive attitude and vision for the future.
5. Basic Need Insecurities: Food/Clothing
Inspired by the gospel of Jesus and the example of Francis of Assisi, the Capuchin friars of the Province of Saint Joseph, together with our partners in ministry, prayerfully build sister-brotherhood in the world. We attend simply and directly to the spiritual and other basic human needs, especially those of the poor and disenfranchised, promoting justice for all.
6. Northcott Neighborhood House, Inc.
In honor of Marie Crockett Memorial. The Marie Crockett Memorial was established in 2006 as a reminder of the leadership and commitment that she made in the lives of women. Marie Crockett inspired and influenced thousands of Milwaukeeans for more than 30 years as a social service director, cultural/arts advocate, government liaison and mentor for future leaders. She is remembered for her energy, determination, positive attitude and vision for the future.
7. Basic Need Insecurities: Emergency Food Pantry
Northcott Neighborhood House is a multipurpose community center created by the United Methodist Church in 1961. They provide education, employment opportunities and basic necessities to youth, families and senior citizens in the Milwaukee area. The goal is to lift the spirit of the whole community through our mission: To empower families to meet their survival needs and provide good parenting to their children.
To provide a safe place for youth as well as recreational and skill-building activities—after school, on Saturdays, and in the summer
To provide the neighborhood with space, activities, and the opportunity to engage in community building and crime prevention.
