Community Shares of Greater Milwaukee
GUIDE TO GIVING BACK
“Giving is not just about making a donation. It is about making a difference.” –Kathy Colvin, CEO & President of the United Nations Foundation On behalf of Community Shares of Greater Milwaukee and our 30 partner organizations, I would like to start by saying thank you—thank you for all you do every day to make a difference. From the random acts of kindness to contributions made through workplace giving to a smile shared with a stranger, you along with thousands just like you, help build a community founded on compassion and shared values. And that’s what we at Community Shares of Greater Milwaukee strive to do every single day, build a stronger, more sustainable Milwaukee together through giving campaigns at your workplace, volunteer opportunities, and public education about the great work being done every single day in southeastern Wisconsin. Our work supports organizations working in our community who: • Protect our civil rights; provide education and literacy resources; enhance the quality of life for the LGBT community; find and support sustainable housing for our residents and rebuild lives; support workers and their rights • Protect the animals in our community by providing humane education programs; rehabilitation and adoption programs; and conservation programs • Preserve and protect our natural resources; provide education about and access to healthy food; and advocate for clean energy. But giving isn’t just monetary. While we all know that funding and resources are necessary to operate, there are other ways that you can give this holiday season to over 30 great nonprofit organizations doing tremendous work in and around Milwaukee. There are many great ways you can donate time, money and items that may be old to you but new to someone! Start with this question—does your workplace host employee-giving options? If not, contact us to get started. It is really easy to support your favorite causes with a regular or yearly contribution directly through your job. Picking up dog or cat food, or perhaps cleaning supplies for those inevitable new puppy messes? Grab an extra bag of kibble and box of Clorox wipes for the Wisconsin Humane Society, Friends of MADACC, and the Humane Animal Welfare Society of Waukesha County. Looking for seasonal help or full-time employees? We’d encourage you to work with Repairers of the Breach to help get folks back in to the workforce to restore pride and dignity to themselves and their family. Do you have a stash of hotel soap and shampoo fit for a king in the closet? Journey House, the Milwaukee Homeless Veterans Initiative, and Benedict Center would happily take those off your hands. Most importantly, can you give of your most precious resource—your time—to help one of these great groups do the important work of creating a Milwaukee we can all be proud to call home? All these organizations need your volunteer hours to expand their outreach to impacted communities. In the pages that follow you will find descriptions of Community Shares of Greater Milwaukee member organizations with wish lists, volunteer opportunities, and contact information. Please take some time to learn about them, get involved and have fun! So thank you. Thank you for all you have done and will continue to do. No matter what form, no matter how much, your contribution makes a huge difference in the lives of so many. Together, we will make a difference. Jorna Taylor, Executive Director Community Shares of Greater Milwaukee PS – A very special thank you to our friends at Erehwon, Milwaukee’s premier mountain outfitter, for supporting this giving guide. Please be sure to visit them at Bayshore Town Center.
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COMMUNITY SHARES: GUIDE TO GIVING BACK
OUR CITY & NEIGHBORHOODS 88NINE RADIO MILWAUKEE 220 E. Pittsburgh Avenue, Milwaukee, WI 53204 (414) 892-8900 // www.radiomilwaukee.org Description: Through music and stories created for a culturally open-minded community, 88Nine Radio Milwaukee is a catalyst for creating a better, more inclusive and engaged Milwaukee. We present Milwaukee’s diverse music, arts, culture, neighborhoods and community organizations on-air, online and in the community, alongside our diverse and adventurous music programming. Why does your organization value the relationship with Community Shares? It is important to Radio Milwaukee to have a resource like CSGM to help us build awareness in our community. What makes your organization unique in the community? 88Nine Radio Milwaukee is a unique public radio station that builds community through music, stories and positive messages about Milwaukee and its people. Organization’s Wishlist: Radio Milwaukee is a public, nonprofit radio station and relies on the generosity of the community to power the music and stories. 88Nine is seeking Members to financially support the organization and join our great community!
COMMON GROUND 1034 E. Ogden Avenue, Milwaukee, WI 53202 (414) 751-0755 // www.commongroundwi.org Description: A group of nonpartisan, proactive everyday citizens in Southeastern Wisconsin dedicated to identifying pressing social problems facing our community and bringing about creative solutions. Why does your organization value the relationship with Community Shares? We value the way that CSGM consistently and uniquely seeks out opportunities to publicly recognize Common Ground’s contributions to the community. What makes your organization unique in the community? The Common Ground Healthcare Cooperative brings the insurance cooperative one step closer to providing health insurance solutions to Southeastern Wisconsin—an achievement of national importance. Organization’s Wishlist: Financial support for Friends of Common Ground or one of our major projects: Health Insurance Coop, foreclosure in Sherman Park or Fair Play (supporting athletic facilities in public schools).
HABITAT FOR HUMANITY OF WISCONSIN 420 S. 1st Street, Suite 6, Milwaukee, WI 53204 (414) 517-9251 // www.habitatwisconsin.org Description: A statewide organization providing technical assistance, fund development, advocacy and other services, supporting nearly 40 local Wisconsin Habitat for Humanity affiliates. Why does your organization value the relationship with Community Shares? CSGM helps us get the word out about our mission in workplaces around the state, and we are proud to be a member! What makes your organization unique in the community? HFH-Wisconsin helps Habitat affiliates around the state of Wisconsin grow so that more low-income families can live in safe, decent and affordable housing. Organization’s Wishlist: As a statewide support organization, HFH-Wisconsin welcomes donations to support our work on behalf of the 40 affiliates across the state. There are also opportunities for volunteers to serve on committees, boards and to assist with special events. Donations of construction materials for our affiliates and new or used home improvement items for our ReStores are greatly appreciated. COMMUNITY SHARES: GUIDE TO GIVING BACK
HEALTHY ENVIRONMENT BICYCLE FEDERATION OF WISCONSIN EDUCATIONAL FOUNDATION 3618 W. Pierce Street, Suite 250, Milwaukee, WI 53215 (414) 431-1798 // www.wisconsinbikefed.org Description: Contributions help us to promote bicycling, to educate adults and children, provide for safe bicycling, to pass legislation and improve the state’s bicycling infrastructure. Why does your organization value the relationship with Community Shares? The Wisconsin Bike Fed is a membership-based nonprofit; we are nothing without our community. We work within communities to educate, advocate, engineer and support bicycling. What makes your organization unique in the community? The bicycle is a simple solution to some of society’s larger issues. Riding a bicycle decreases healthcare costs, road congestion, childhood obesity, and air pollution, all while promoting sustainable transportation. Organization’s Wishlist: The Wisconsin Bike Fed needs YOU, members! We are only as strong as our weakest voice, so join the team that works to make Wisconsin the best and safest place to ride your bicycle. In addition we could use: quality office chairs; self-standing cubicle dividers; small portable printer; truck/van to carry supplies when supporting events in various communities; materials and equipment for teaching kids how to ride, including the transportation of bikes to schools; volunteer coordinator-we need a volunteer to formalize and coordinate our outreach activities; event planners—volunteers with expertise and a strong desire to organize large scale events (200-700 people); professional development—if you are an expert in your field, please share your knowledge; quality bicycles for schoo-aged children 7-12; bicycle or metric tools; inner tubes; and quality bike parts.
FRIENDS OF WISCONSIN STATE PARKS P.O. Box 2271, Madison, WI 53701 (608) 294-0810 // www.fwsp.org Description: Preserving, protecting and enhancing Wisconsin state parks, forests, trails and recreation areas for future generations. Why does your organization value the relationship with Community Shares? FWSP strongly supports the work of Community Shares and continues to be an active member organization because their work makes greater Milwaukee a better community in which to live and work. Hank Aaron State Trail and Lakeshore State Park directly benefit from this relationship. What makes your organization unique in the community? Friends of Wisconsin State Parks supports 81 local Friends groups around the state who work to enhance their local state park/trail property, often raising funds to ad what’s needed and provide programs and events throughout the year. Organization’s Wishlist: FWSP appreciates volunteers for Friends group projects and membership in FWSP. Donations to support the work of FWSP and local Friends groups can be given through Community Shares campaigns or directly on the website by buying a park sticker.
GROWING POWER 5500 W. Silver Spring Drive, Milwaukee WI 53218 (414) 527-1546 // www. growingpower.org Description: National nonprofit and land trust supporting people from diverse backgrounds by helping provide equal access to healthy, high-quality, safe and affordable food. NOVEMBER 23, 2017 | 3
Why does your organization value the relationship with Community Shares? Being a part of CSGM allows Growing Power to serve a larger audience and helps us spread our mission to provide safe and affordable food for people in all communities.
MILWAUKEE RIVERKEEPER
What makes your organization unique in the community? Growing Power’s work focuses on urban food production and improving nutrition for inner-city youth, adults and seniors in low-income neighborhoods.
Description: Milwaukee Riverkeeper strives to protect, improve and advocate for water quality, riparian wildlife habitat and sound land management in the Milwaukee, Menomonee, and Kinnickinnic River Watersheds.
Organization’s Wishlist: We are always in need of volunteers. Whether you want to help in your community, learn more about growing food or just want to get your hands in the soil, Growing Power offers opportunities for individuals and groups to get in touch with the land. Many different types of volunteer opportunities exist, from farming to graphic design. If you have a skill that you think might be useful, please speak up and we’ll put you to work. Volunteer orientation is held every Saturday at 10 a.m. at the Growing Power Community Food & Training Center. Orientation takes about 30 minutes and you can stay and start working right away or come back another time. Once oriented, you can volunteer anytime. After completing an orientation, volunteers are welcome Sunday through Saturday, 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Why does your organization value the relationship with Community Shares? Thanks to our relationship with CSGM we can further our mission through greater visibility, increased revenue and by connecting to a large network of nonprofits.
1845 N. Farwell Avenue, Suite 100, Milwaukee, WI 53202 (414) 287-0207 // www.milwaukeeriverkeeper.org
What makes your organization unique in the community? Milwaukee Riverkeeper serves as the advocate and voice for the Milwaukee, Menomonee, and Kinnickinnic Rivers, promoting clean drinking water and swimmable, fishable rivers. Organization’s Wishlist: Milwaukee Riverkeeper is always looking for dedicated individuals to become members, volunteers, and help advocate for our rivers. We need volunteers to monitor our waterways, help with office activities, and participate in our river cleanups (mark your calendars for our 2018 Annual Spring River Cleanup on Saturday, April 21)! In order to complete this work we are looking for new members as well as waders, water monitoring equipment, and office supplies. If you are interested, or would like more information, email info@milwaukeeriverkeeper.org.
PARK PEOPLE OF MILWAUKEE COUNTY 1845 N. Farwell Avenue, Suite 100, Milwaukee, WI 53202 (414) 273-7275 // www.parkpeoplemke.org Description: Encouraging citizen stewardship of Milwaukee County Parks by pro viding a forum for community involvement and input to preserve and manage our park system. Why does your organization value the relationship with Community Shares? Working with CSGM, we look forward to increasing awareness of the county park system and encouraging citizens to cherish their parks. What makes your organization unique in the community? We work diligently in the political arena to increase funding for our county park system for the benefit of present and future generations. Organization’s Wishlist: Besides financial contributions, we are always in need of volunteers to help with our many projects. Please visit our website to learn more about how you can get involved!
SIERRA CLUB FOUNDATION 754 Williamson Street, Madison, WI. 53703 (608) 256-0565 // www.sierraclub.org/wisconsin Description: Wisconsin’s voice for the oldest, largest and most influential grassroots environmental organizations working together to explore, enjoy and protect air, water and wild places. Why does your organization value the relationship with Community Shares? CSGM facilitates collaboration among diverse groups with similar goals and empowers us all to make a difference in the community. What makes your organization unique in the community? As the nation’s oldest, largest and most influential grassroots environmental organization, we have an engaged membership that can be mobilized to address issues at the local, state and national level. Organization’s Wishlist: Put your passion and skills to good use with the Sierra Club. Whether you enjoy tabling, graphic design, organizing campaigns, bookkeeping or leading outings, we have plenty of opportunities to get involved! Please visit our website and complete the volunteer inquiry form. Also, we are in need of a Power Point projector, and a compact, tabletop letter folding machine. 4 | NOVEMBER 23, 2017
COMMUNITY SHARES: GUIDE TO GIVING BACK
VICTORY GARDEN INITIATIVE 1845 N. Farwell Avenue, Suite 100, Milwaukee, WI 53202 (414) 431-0888 // www.victorygardeninitiative.org Description: Empowers communities to grow their own food, creating a secure, sovereign, socially just and sustainable food system. Why does your organization value the relationship with Community Shares? VGI values the relationship we strengthen with workplaces across the city. Together, we leverage our collective resources to build a healthier community food system. What makes your organization unique in the community? We create the change we wish to see through growing food in the city, in community orchards, church gardens, leadership programs, youth education and more. Organization’s Wishlist: Volunteers!!! March - November: Farm & Garden Volunteers; May - October: Garden Mentors; Year-Round: Outreach & Admin Volunteers. Tablecloths (red and white checkered, yellow, white), reusable plates, bowls, cups and silverware, used truck that can haul a yard of soil, gently used computer.
CIVIL RIGHTS FOR ALL
URBAN ECOLOGY CENTER 1500 E. Park Place, Milwaukee, WI 53211 (414) 964-8505 // www.urbanecologycenter.org Description: A community center that provides outdoor science programs for urban youth, protects and enhances public natural areas, and promotes community through learning, recreation and stewardship. Why does your organization value the relationship with Community Shares? CSGM, through its workplace-giving campaigns, allows us to reach a broader audience of supporters with the opportunity to increase environmental literacy in Milwaukee. What makes your organization unique in the community? The Urban Ecology Center is FREE and open to the public. Programs connect people through hands-on land restoration, environmental education and outdoor recreation. Organization’s Wishlist: We are always looking for volunteers! We offer regular and drop-in opportunities to accommodate a variety of schedules and interests. Please visit our website for more information. We are also in need of the following items at all three of our branches: Anabat detector; power washer; blenders; log splitter; Legos/K’Nex building toys; heavy bottom, stainless steel cookware; wooden high chairs; yoga mats; ponchos: adult (green) and youth (red or blue); children’s snowpants (all sizes); field guides. For an expanded list of needs, please visit us online. COMMUNITY SHARES: GUIDE TO GIVING BACK
AMERICAN CIVIL LIBERTIES UNION OF WISCONSIN FOUNDATION 207 E. Buffalo Street, Suite 325, Milwaukee, WI 53202 (414) 272-4032 // www.aclu-wi.org Description: We protect civil liberties and civil rights for all through advocacy, litigation, and community outreach efforts. We focus on free speech, religious liberty, digital privacy, due process, and equality. Why does your organization value the relationship with Community Shares? This type of unrestricted funding frees us to place resources where the need is greatest. CSGM also works to unite social justice partners throughout Milwaukee. NOVEMBER 23, 2017 | 5
What makes your organization unique in the community? The ACLU of Wisconsin Foundation is the only nonprofit public interest law firm that protects the civil liberties and civil rights of all Wisconsinites. Organization’s Wishlist: Laptops; tablets to use in the field for surveys, legal observing, and onsite educational programming in area schools; art supplies including paints, printmaking materials, Elmer’s art model paste; gift cards for Blick Art Materials; and coffee.
CITIZEN ACTION OF WISCONSIN EDUCATION FUND 221 S. 2nd Street, Suite 300, Milwaukee, WI 53204 (414) 476-4501 // www.citizenactionwifund.org Description: A statewide organization headquartered in the Walker’s Point neighborhood dedicated to expanding economic opportunity, guaranteeing affordable health care and protecting the right to vote. Why does your organization value the relationship with Community Shares? CSGM is a great way to connect with people who work in the Milwaukee area with good causes in their community. What makes your organization unique in the community? We combine traditional grassroots organizing, cutting-edge communications and astute policy analysis to make Wisconsin a better place to live and work.
Why does your organization value the relationship with Community Shares? Disability Rights Wisconsin is pleased to partner with Community Shares of Greater Milwaukee, which provides the opportunity for organizations dedicated to improving the Milwaukee community and advancing social justice to learn from one another and strengthen our resolve to make Milwaukee a great place to live. What makes your organization unique in the community? As Wisconsin’s disability watchdog, we guard against the dehumanizing practices of isolation, discrimination, neglect, and abuse. Our advocates have special federal investigative and unique access authority to investigate abuse, neglect, and exploitation of people with disabilities. We are the only statewide disability advocacy organization to advance social change through education, litigation, and public policy advocacy to protect rights, and promote justice for all persons with disabilities. Organization’s Wishlist: Disability Rights Wisconsin needs financial support to protect the rights and interests of Wisconsinites with disabilities and to ensure that we can reach the Milwaukee areas most vulnerable populations. We are also seeking volunteers to serve as special advocates for victims of crime, abuse and exploitation, and attorneys to assist our legal team.
Organization’s Wishlist: We also need good volunteers and interns.
FAIR WISCONSIN EDUCATION FUND
CREAM CITY FOUNDATION
203 S. Patterson Street, Suite 200, Madison, WI 53703 (608) 441-0143 // www.fairwisconsineducationfund.com
759 N. Milwaukee Street, Suite 522, Milwaukee, WI 53202 (414) 225-0244 // www.creamcityfoundation.org Description: Cream City Foundation is Southeastern Wisconsin’s LGBTQ Community Foundation, bringing donors and nonprofits together to support the well-being of LGBTQ people. We mobilize the philanthropic resources necessary to address the human rights and needs of our community. Why does your organization value the relationship with Community Shares? Our partnership with CSGM provides opportunities to learn and work with others for the greatest impact to create social change and improve the lived experience for LGBTQ people in Southeastern Wisconsin. What makes your organization unique in the community? Cream City Foundation serves as the sole LGBTQ community foundation in Southeastern Wisconsin, raising money and granting funds to build and strengthen the capacity of leaders and LGBTQ nonprofit organizations. Organization’s Wishlist: Financial contributions and workplace-giving fund critical grant making essential to building a strong and vibrant LGBTQ community. Volunteers and interns to support our general office needs, special events, social media/electronic email campaigns and public relations/marketing efforts. New laptops and iPads.
DISABILITY RIGHTS WISCONSIN 6737 W. Washington Street, Suite 3230, Milwaukee, WI 53214 (414) 773-4646 www.disabilityrightswi.org Description: Disability Rights Wisconsin is Wisconsin’s Protection and Advocacy system for people with disabilities and mental illness. Disability Rights Wisconsin fights the inequities that prevent people with disabilities from receiving equal access to education, employment, healthcare, transportation, housing, and voting. We employ education, negotiation, litigation, legislation, collaboration, and consumer empowerment to advance the rights and opportunities of all people with disabilities. 6 | NOVEMBER 23, 2017
Description: The statewide grassroots civic engagement organization that educates about the harms of anti-LGBTQ discrimination and builds more inclusive communities and workplaces. Why does your organization value the relationship with Community Shares? CSGM helps us reach new donors who care about the change we are trying to create. It’s great that designated contributions go directly to support the work of the organization. What makes your organization unique in the community? Fair Wisconsin Education Fund is the only statewide LGBTQ civil rights education and advocacy organization in Wisconsin. Organization’s Wishlist: Volunteers and interns are always needed! Please contact info@fairwisconsin.com for more information.
VOCES DE LA FRONTERA 1027 S. 5th Street, Milwaukee, WI 53204 (414) 643-1620 // www.vdlf.org Description: Organizes for low-income worker, immigrant and student rights. Empowers multi-generational membership to use their collective voice and take action to create transformative change. Why does your organization value the relationship with Community Shares? We value that CSGM brings many different communities and organizations together in the fight for a better tomorrow. What makes your organization unique in the community? Our organizing for workers’ rights is rooted in community leadership and activism; through this, our members and allies continue the civil rights movement by working for equality. Organization’s Wishlist: We really need volunteers with backgrounds in all areas such as graphic design, translating text, journalism, canvassing and phone banking! Bilingual volunteers are strongly encouraged, but we have volunteer opportunities for everyone! Those interested should email Nancy @vdlf.org COMMUNITY SHARES: GUIDE TO GIVING BACK
YOUTH & FAMILIES
What makes your organization unique in the community? MCCY addresses gaps in local services for abused children by providing traumainformed, culturally responsive and evidence-based programming. MCCY does not duplicate services already available. Organization’s Wishlist: MCCY welcomes donations of office supplies, printing services, healthy, non-perishable snacks, gift cards for local grocery or convenience stores, and food from local restaurants. We have a variety of volunteer needs for marketing, fundraising and administrative tasks.
RETHINKING SCHOOLS 1001 E. Keefe Avenue, Milwaukee, WI 53212 (414) 964-9646 // www.rethinkingschools.org Description: We are a social justice education magazine and book publisher promoting anti-racist, multicultural teaching for teachers with the creative commitment of grounding teaching to students’ lives. Why does your organization value the relationship with Community Shares? Our founders and editors include teachers and advocates who have worked for more than 30 years on behalf of Milwaukee school children. We are proud to be associated with other progressive activist organizations working to better our community. What makes your organization unique in the community? Our publications promote equity and racial justice in the classroom, the well-being of our children, and democratic movements for social and environmental justice by telling the stories of teachers and advocates and their work to create the schools our children deserve. Organization’s Wishlist: We need monetary donations, office supplies and shoot prizes for fundraising events.
TRANSITIONING LIVES KIDS MATTER 1850 N. Dr. Martin Luther King Drive, Suite 202, Milwaukee, WI 53212 (414) 344-1220 // www.kidsmatterinc.org Description: We help abused and neglected children heal and thrive through youth/ community partnerships, community problem-solving and family support. We strive to be a strong voice for children. Why does your organization value the relationship with Community Shares? We appreciate being part of a learning community with shared values and the commitment to working together. What makes your organization unique in the community? We are champions for children who have been abused or neglected. Through our programs we provide support for caregivers as well. Organization’s Wishlist: We welcome donations of holiday gifts, warm hats and mittens, school supplies, and specific donations for children aged newborn to teens. We welcome volunteers who wish to advocate on behalf of individual children in foster care, or who want to help in the office or at our community events such as our annual Holiday Party and Fostering Hope fundraiser.
MILWAUKEE CENTER FOR CHILDREN AND YOUTH 2004 N. Dr. Martin Luther King Driver, Milwaukee, WI 53212 (414) 248-3996 // www.mccy.org Description: Advocacy, case management, restorative justice practices, trauma resolution and youth leadership development for children and youth of all ages who have suffered abuse or neglect. Why does your organization value the relationship with Community Shares? Partnership with CSGM gives MCCY a greater community profile and access to diverse workplace-giving campaigns. COMMUNITY SHARES: GUIDE TO GIVING BACK
THE BENEDICT CENTER 1849 N. Dr. Martin Luther King Drive, Suite 101, Milwaukee, WI 53212 (414) 347-1774 // www.benedictcenter.org Description: The Benedict Center provides community-based substance abuse and mental health treatment, street outreach, case management and support to justice involved women, so they can live safer and healthier lives for themselves, their children and our community through the following programs: Women’s Harm Reduction Program; Women’s Reentry Program at the Milwaukee County House of Correction; Sisters Program (working with women in prostitution and/or sex trafficking with locations on north and south sides); and Justice Advocacy. Why does your organization value the relationship with Community Shares? CSGM allows us to reach new donors and offers residents of Greater Milwaukee an easy way to contribute to organizations dedicated to social justice, like the Benedict Center. What makes your organization unique in the community? The Benedict Center uses a public health approach to help women begin the journey of healing and wellness as an effective alternative to incarceration. We also work with community partners, neighborhoods, women involved in our programs, the police and justice system representatives to determine the best approaches and practices to assist justice-involved women in changing their lives. NOVEMBER 23, 2017 | 7
Organization’s Wishlist: Gift cards (Aldi, Dollar Store, etc.) in small amounts as incentives for clients; travel-size hygiene products; feminine care products, warm clothes and boots (range of sizes from S to 2X); school supplies (notebooks, pocket folders, pens, notepads); bus tickets; sponsors for Sisters Program Warming Room, providing emergency shelter to homeless women during the winter months; kitchen items (cleaning supplies, plates, cups, bowls); reading glasses. Also, volunteers are needed to help with fundraising, communications, and operations including special event planning and graphic design.
END DOMESTIC ABUSE WISCONSIN 1245 E. Washington Avenue, Suite 150, Madison, WI 53703 (608) 255-0539 // www.endabusewi.org Description: As the leading voice for victims of domestic abuse in Wisconsin, we raise awareness and provide safety and support to prevent and end domestic abuse. Why does your organization value the relationship with Community Shares? As advocates for social justice, we embrace our relationship with CSGM because it helps build relationships, community involvement and citizen activism by connecting member groups, donors and employers. What makes your organization unique in the community? We educate shelter and program volunteers and advocates, law enforcement, legislators and community members to provide safety and support to domestic abuse survivors throughout Wisconsin. Organization’s Wishlist: We are in need of a high-quality digital camera and highquality video camera with good sound recording to record survivors’ stories. We would gladly accept in-kind donations of gift cards, merchandise, event tickets, hotel stays, etc., to be used for silent auction items at our annual fundraising events, as well as corporate sponsors/event underwriting support. We welcome pro bono services such as: graphic design, printing, musicians for special events, and volunteers for our many tabling opportunities and outreach events. We happily accept financial support and encourage workplace-giving through Community Shares.
HOPE HOUSE OF MILWAUKEE
What makes your organization unique in the community? The scope of services make Hope House a truly vibrant community center. Through shelter, support services, education programs, a low-cost health clinic and the United South Side Food Pantry, Hope House makes a real difference. Organization’s Wishlist: We need food for our pantry, especially around the holidays. We regularly need bathroom items and linens for the people living at Hope House, and, honestly, we need monetary donations to help pay for the unglamorous yet essential things like our utility bills to keep everyone warm.
JOURNEY HOUSE 2110 W. Scott Street, Milwaukee, WI 53204 (414) 647-0548 // www.journeyhouse.org Description: Empowering families on Milwaukee’s near South Side to move out of poverty by offering adult education, workforce readiness, youth development and family engagement programs. Why does your organization value the relationship with Community Shares? CSGM membership allows us to work with nonprofits around the city to strengthen our communities while enhancing participants’ quality of life. What makes your organization unique in the community? We provide the tools and resources necessary for people to succeed and contribute personally, professionally, and civically to the neighborhood and our Greater Milwaukee community. Organization’s Wishlist: Financial contributions. Volunteers—anyone interested in volunteering should contact Cherish Myers at 414-647-0548 x104 or cmyers@journeyhouse. org. Arts and crafts supplies. Office supplies (paper, cleaning supplies, etc.), gift cards in any amount for incentives and event raffles. We are also collecting laundry detergent, soap, toothpaste, deodorant and dish soap as well as food gift cards.
MILWAUKEE HOMELESS VETERANS INITIATIVE P.O. Box 18441, Milwaukee, WI 53218 (414) 763-5596 // www.mkehomelessvets.org Description: Helps homeless and at-risk veterans obtain benefits, healthcare, food, clothing, transportation, toiletries, furniture—necessities to begin new lives. We don’t leave our wounded behind. Why does your organization value the relationship with Community Shares? CSGM enables us to spread the word about our organization and mission to people and workplaces throughout the community, which is invaluable. What makes your organization unique in the community? Milwaukee Homeless Veterans Initiative is the only organization in Southeast Wisconsin that provides the service that we offer to homeless and at-risk veterans in the community. Organization’s Wishlist: We thank our many donors and want the donations to keep coming because the need for our services is greater than ever. We continue to need furniture, household goods, food, clothing and toiletries. Please visit our website to see our “Frequently Needed Items” list, or to complete a donation form or volunteer application.
PROJECT RETURN 2821 N. 4th Street, Suite 202, Milwaukee, WI 53212 (414) 374-8029 // www.projectreturnmilwaukee.org
209 W. Orchard Street, Milwaukee, WI 53204 (414) 645-2122 // www.hopehousemke.org Description: A community agency serving families and individuals; provides emergency shelter for families and supportive services in order to promote independence. Why does your organization value the relationship with Community Shares? By participating with CSGM, we become part of a powerful collective of important agencies making a dramatic difference in Milwaukee. CSGM brings us all together. 8 | NOVEMBER 23, 2017
Description: Strives to help men and women who are ex-offenders receive job assistance, and provides group assistance, education needs, community service opportunities and housing. Why does your organization value the relationship with Community Shares? Community Shares opens doors that would otherwise be closed and builds partnerships in the community. What makes your organization unique in the community? Project RETURN strives to reduce barriers and assist any man or woman returning from incarceration make a positive, permanent return to the community. Organization’s Wishlist: Donations of furniture, lightly used clothing, coats and COMMUNITY SHARES: GUIDE TO GIVING BACK
hygiene products; board members; speakers with an ability to inform congregations and other organizations of the needs of those returning from incarceration.
Why does your organization value the relationship with Community Shares? CSGM allows HAWS to reach like-minded individuals in our community. Also donating via payroll deduction makes giving easier for them and sustainable for us!
REPAIRERS OF THE BREACH
What makes your organization unique in the community? HAWS is the only open-admission and full-service animal shelter/humane society in our area. We accept animals regardless of age, health, breed or temperament.
P.O. Box 13791, Milwaukee, WI 53213 (414) 934-9305 // www.repairers.org Description: Sponsors Greater Milwaukee’s only daytime homeless refuge and resource center. Offers both life-saving and mainstreaming programs and services to homeless adults. Why does your organization value the relationship with Community Shares? It is an invaluable opportunity to share and obtain successful best practices with other similar, well-organized organizations.
Organization’s Wishlist: HAWS’ complete Wish List, organized by department, can be found online, along with Featured Needs, which are updated as necessary and depending on our animal population’s needs. Regular items include soft dog treats for training (e.g. Pupperoni), kitten formula and food, laundry detergent and bleach, Clorox wipes, hand sanitizer, copy paper, paper towel and stamps.
What makes your organization unique in the community? We are the only Homeless shelter open during daytime hours within Milwaukee, and in brutal severe winter weather, we open our overnight “warming room.” Organization’s Wishlist: Financial donations, employment opportunities, warm winter clothing (especially socks, shoes and underwear), hand warmers, canned vegetables/fruit, vegetable/beef soup, boxes of variety pack oatmeal, gallons of milk, cleaning supplies, large garbage bags, paper towels, napkins, toilet tissue, disposable razors, travel-size soap, shampoo, toothbrushes/toothpaste, and reading glasses.
WELFARE OF ANIMALS FRIENDS OF MADACC P.O. Box 341906, Milwaukee, WI 53234 www.friendsofmadacc.org Description: Friends of MADACC was founded to assist the Milwaukee Area Domestic Animal Control Commission (MADACC) in completing their mission and promise to animals in the municipalities of Milwaukee County. Our group focuses on reducing animal intake, increasing live outcomes from the shelter, improving the quality of life for the animals while they are in MADACC’s care and providing support in the community to owners and animals in need. Why does your organization value the relationship with Community Shares? Community Shares of Greater Milwaukee allows Friends of MADACC to connect with the people who love and want to help animals that are truly in need in our community. More awareness and support for our group will ensure our goal of creating a humane community will be within our reach. What makes your organization unique in the community? Friends of MADACC is the only not-for-profit group that is focused on supporting a very worthy and in-need government animal welfare agency that is often overlooked in the community. MADACC is tasked with being there to bring every animal that is lost or in need into their facility and needs resources to make that happen. Friends of MADACC ensures that those resources are available to all animals who need them, so they get the second chance that they so richly deserve. Organization’s Wishlist: Friends of MADACC is a dynamic organization that invites all members of the community to be a part of our work. Whether you want to become a member of our organization, a volunteer, a foster, or a donor supporting us financially; or collect needed items; or just help us spread the word we welcome everyone to join us. A humane community is only possible if we all work together. Visit our website if you would like more information about ways that you can participate www.friendsofmadacc.org.
HUMANE ANIMAL WELFARE SOCIETY OF WAUKESHA COUNTY (HAWS) 701 Northview Road, Waukesha, WI 53188 (262) 542-8851 // www.hawspets.org Description: Strengthening the community through humane education; sharing the values of compassion and kindness; providing shelter, rescue, adoption and spay/ neuter services for animals in need. COMMUNITY SHARES: GUIDE TO GIVING BACK
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WISCONSIN HUMANE SOCIETY 4500 W. Wisconsin Avenue, Milwaukee, WI 53208 (414) 264-6257 // www.wihumane.org Description: An animal welfare organization that provides an animal adoption program, humane education and advocacy, a public spay/neuter clinic, veterinary services for animals from low-income households and wildlife rehabilitation. Why does your organization value the relationship with Community Shares? CSGM provides a strong platform to share our work with a larger community and offers our donors a flexible and easy giving option. What makes your organization unique in the community? WHS is a local animal welfare organization that depends on the generosity of the community to fund our lifesaving work. WHS operates three shelters in southeastern Wisconsin (Milwaukee, Ozaukee, and Racine counties) and operates a lowcost public spay/neuter clinic in West Allis. The WHS Milwaukee Campus is also home to the largest and most active wildlife hospital in the state. WHS is not a part of a national umbrella group. Organization’s Wishlist: There are many opportunities to get involved with the Wisconsin Humane Society. We are always looking for animal-loving volunteers, especially in customer service or in foster volunteer positions to provide in-home foster care for animals too young for our adoption program, or recovering from illness. We also have an extensive wish list of items that we go through constantlyeverything from baby wipes and hand sanitizer to dog treats and cat litter. We rely heavily on donations of such items and appreciate them so much! Please see our website for the full list.
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COMMUNITY SHARES: GUIDE TO GIVING BACK
Tell your organization you saw them in the Guide to Giving Back
COMMUNITY SHARES: GUIDE TO GIVING BACK
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