The Northwestern Mutual Foundation has grants to help 13 local nonprofits enhance the local economy through job training, community development, and neighborhood revitalization.
The Northwestern Mutual Foundation has awarded $625,000 in grants to help 13 local nonprofits enhance the local economy through job training, community development, and neighborhood revitalization.
“Revitalizing neighborhoods falls under one of our key focus areas as an organization,” said Deanna Tillisch, Northwestern Mutual Foundation vice president. “This is our hometown and we are committed to improving the quality of life of the people who live here. We’re partnering with these ‘best-in-class’ nonprofit organizations to address the issues of the underserved in our community and embrace new opportunities that enhance the economic vitality of the Milwaukee region.”
Organizations selected for the grant underwent a rigorous review process that evaluated core competency, fiscal health and vision of the organization leader, Tillisch said.
“Revitalizing neighborhoods and improving quality of life for people in need creates a positive ripple effect within the community,” Tillisch said. “These organizations enhance the region’s economic vitality by preparing residents for entry-level jobs, helping entrepreneurs start their own small businesses and making neighborhoods safer and more vibrant.”
Organizations receiving a Northwestern Mutual Foundation grant include:
Goodwill Industries, COA Youth and Family Services, Family-Centered Program Commonbond Communities, Career Advantage Services Journey House, Urban Careers Institute Local Initiatives Support Corporation, Building Sustainable Communities Milwaukee Development Corporation, Economic Development Programs with Milwaukee 7 Milwaukee Habitat for Humanity, House Sponsorships Safe & Sound, Midtown Neighborhood Initiative Silver Spring Neighborhood Center, Silver Spring/Havenwoods Employment Initiative Social Development, Milwaukee Asset Building United Migrant Opportunity Services, GED Bridge to Career Pathways Program Wisconsin Regional Training Partnership, Inc., Urban Skills Trades Connection Wisconsin Women’s Business Initiative Corp., Smart Start Business Planning
According to Tillisch, this particular set of grants are one year grants. Organizations were required to supply an outline of the proposed project and a projected outcome of results. Northwestern Mutual Foundation will work with the organizations to gauge the progress and assist as a resource for the organizations throughout the program.
“We all have a role to play in making this community the best it can be,” Tillisch said. “I give a lot of credit to the nonprofit organizations though. They are the ones delivering the service and interfacing with people in our community; giving them an opportunity to have a better life. I applaud their efforts because they are the ones who are truly making a difference.”
