NONPROFIT

MSO’S FIRST SEASON IN BRADLEY SYMPHONY CENTER WILL BE MOSTLY VIRTUAL

The Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra’s first season in its new home will be largely virtual, with the possibility of some in-person performances if city regulations allow.

Work is nearing completion on the Bradley Symphony Center, and the organization expects to have occupancy by mid-December. But at this point, live performances will be available virtually only when the new season kicks off in January due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Under the current phase of Milwaukee’s public health order, gatherings are limited to 25% of a location’s total occupancy, one person for every 30 square feet of floor space, or 10 people indoors.

MSO recently announced the lineup for its “reimagined” 2021-’22 season, saying there could be opportunities for in-person experiences for current 2020-’21 subscribers if city regulations allow.

“In partnership with our musicians’ union, the construction team at C.D. Smith, and Milwaukee’s public health officials, we are poised to launch the MSO’s reimagined season in a safe environment with rigorous health protocols in place,” the MSO said. “We will also maintain flexibility and transparency as the pandemic evolves, adhering to all local health guidelines, and keeping the health, safety, and well-being of our patrons in mind.”

For new subscribers, the season will be offered as a $200 virtual-only package that includes 12 “Classics” and four “Pops” performances.

“This reimagined season is our answer to how we uphold our commitment to connecting audiences with live, transformative music,” said Mark Niehaus, president and executive director. “Our promise to our patrons is that we will navigate the future together. And we look forward to the day when we can safely welcome everyone into the Bradley Symphony Center and fill every seat in joyous celebration.”

The organization said having complete operational oversight at the new symphony center gives it the ability to ensure “the highest standards of health and safety measures throughout the building.” The MSO has previously held its performances at the Marcus Performing Arts Center, which is also closed to in-person events amid the pandemic.

MSO initially aimed to complete the $139 million renovation of the former Warner Grand Theater by September, but later pushed that date back to January 2021 due to flood damage during a rainstorm and a steam tunnel failure in May.

The first event of MSO’s season will be a Classics performance on Jan. 23, called “Welcome Home,” which will feature a half-dozen musicians. — Lauren Anderson, staff writer

DONATION ROUNDUP

Johnson Financial Group is donating $300,000 to support hunger relief efforts at Feeding America, Second Harvest and Feed My People to feed families across several Wisconsin communities over the holidays. | The Sisters of Charity of St. Joan Antida raised $182,000 to support the students of St. Joan Antida High School through its “Bring the Tradition Home” event on Nov. 1. | Vivent Health has received a $50,000 grant award from Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield Foundation. | The Green Bay Packers awarded City Year Milwaukee with a $25,000 social justice grant through the NFL Foundation. | Northwestern Mutual recently awarded a $5,000 renewable scholarship to Milwaukee resident Elizabeth Kuhlman, a cancer survivor, through its Childhoold Cancer Survivor Scholarship. | The Dominican Center received a $2,500 grant from The Starbucks Foundation for work supporting racial equity and creating a more inclusive community in the Amani neighborhood of Milwaukee.

nonprofit SPOTLIGHT

ERAS SENIOR NETWORK 2607 N. Grandview Boulevard, Suite 150, Waukesha (414) 488-6500 (Milwaukee County) | (262) 549-3348 (Waukesha County) eras.org Facebook: Facebook.com/erasWaukesha | Instagram: @ErasSeniorNetwork Linkedin: Linkedin.com/company/eras-senior-network-inc. YouTube: Eras Senior Network

Year founded: 1981 Mission statement: The mission of Eras Senior Network is to engage and support seniors, adults with disabilities, and family caregivers in leading meaningful lives. Primary focus of your nonprofit organization: Creating communities where seniors and adults with disabilities are fully embraced through collaborative partnerships, coordination of services, and intergenerational volunteer activities. Other focuses of your nonprofit organization: Transportation services, outdoor help, minor home repairs, supportive services, community service, volunteering opportunities, S.T.O.P. Senior Frauds and Scams program, education partnerships and community outreach. Number of employees at this location: 29 Key donors: United Way of Greater Milwaukee and Waukesha County, ProHealth Care, Capri Senior Communities, Froedtert & Medical College of Wisconsin and Vrakas CPAs. Executive leadership: Kathy Gale, executive director; Sandi Ammerman, associate director; Heather Uzowulu, development director; Judith Amorsen, program director Waukesha County; Sophia Franklin, program director Milwaukee County Board of directors: Jim Holmes, president; Angela King, vice president; Steve Dombrock, treasurer; Cindy Murdock, secretary; Glen Choban; Tim Rennicke; Donna Dziewik; Shay Sherfinski; Diane Ehn; Michael Wahoviak; Mike Kruse and Pam Paulson Is your organization actively seeking board members for the upcoming term? Yes What roles are you looking to fill? We are seeking Milwaukee County representation, specifically individuals with expertise in public relations, older adult services, or fundraising. Our board is committed to increasing the diversity of our board and staff and welcome prospective board member interest from individuals who are part of the LGBTQ community, and individuals who represent minority populations. Ways the business community can help your nonprofit: Please encourage employees to consider becoming a volunteer with Eras Senior Network. We are currently looking to fill volunteer driving positions for our Drive. Give. Serve. program, which includes transportation to medical appointments for seniors and contactless grocery deliveries for seniors and people with disabilities.