The United Way of Greater Milwaukee recently joined David Uihlein, Jr., son of Milwaukee philanthropist, Jane Bradley Pettit, in dedicating the United Way of Greater Milwaukee’s building, 225 W.Vine St., in Bradley Pettit’s name.
“From 1985 until her death, my mother’s generosity drove efforts that shaped and elevated the greater Milwaukee community,” said Uihlein. “An important aspect of her legacy to our family was compassion for people, a sense of generosity and responsibility to our community.”
Five organizations including, The David and Julie Uihlein Charitable Foundation, The Brico Fund, The Jane Bradley Pettit Foundation, The Lynde and Harry Bradley Foundation and the Allen-Bradley Company/ Rockwell Automation, joined together to honor Bradley Pettit with a combined gift of $500,000.
Over the organization’s 100-year history, Bradley Pettit was the single largest donor to the United Way of Greater Milwaukee.
“Jane Bradley Pettit’s community support had remarkable depth and breadth and continues to enhance our local quality of life,” said Ed Zore, chairman and CEO of Northwestern Mutual and chairman of the board of United Way of Greater Milwaukee. “Today’s building dedication is most fitting because her commitment to improve the lives of so many people, build strong neighborhoods and enhance the quality of life in our community reflects the values and emphasis of United Way.”
“Over the years, Jane Bradley Pettit supported so many initiatives that are key building blocks to help individuals and families secure a better life,” said Mary Lou Young, United Way of Greater Milwaukee president and CEO. “Her legacy enables us to continue our focus on helping people access opportunities to build a good life – a quality education that leads to a stable job, enough income to support a family through all of life’s stages, good health and a safe home.”
Participants in the ceremony included (L-R) Steve and Sarah Zimmerman, Bradley Pettit’s granddaughter; David Uihlein, Jr., David and Julie Uihlein Charitable Foundation; Michael Grebe of the Lynde and Harry Bradley Foundation; Francis Croak of the Jane Bradley Pettit Foundation; Ed Zore, chairman and CEO of Northwestern Mutual and chairman of the board of United Way of Greater Milwaukee; Eileen Walter of the Allen-Bradley Company/Rockwell Automation; and Mary Lou Young, United Way of Greater Milwaukee president and CEO.
