When we think about creating lasting, positive change in our community, we often think of the impact we can make through direct actions or large-scale programs. However, one of the most powerful ways to make a difference is by supporting organizations that are already spearheading transformative, data-driven work in your neighborhood.
For the past decade, NWSP has worked to enhance the quality of life for residents in Milwaukee’s Near West Side—one of the city’s most vibrant yet historically under-resourced areas. Here are just a few reasons why your contribution is critical to making a lasting impact on our neighborhood of neighborhoods:
1. Support for Small Businesses and Economic Growth
One of the most powerful ways to drive positive change in a community is through economic development. NWSP’s business resources support local entrepreneurs, small businesses and workforce development programs. Initiatives such as our annual Rev-Up MKE pitch competition help businesses thrive and create jobs in our area. By supporting NWSP, you’re helping to fuel our local economy, increase employment opportunities and build a more sustainable future for residents.
2. Focus on Neighborhood Revitalization
The Near West Side is undergoing a transformation, and NWSP is at the heart of this revitalization effort. From repurposing vacant infrastructure to enhancing public spaces, the organization is focused on improving the physical environment while preserving the historical character of the neighborhood. Your donation helps fund critical projects such as park improvements, safety upgrades and now a new community center, which in turn create safer, more welcoming spaces for families and neighbors to enjoy.
3. Enhancing Neighborhood Safety through Data-Driven Efforts
Another core component of NWSP’s work is its commitment to neighborhood safety. One ongoing program is our PARC (Promoting Assets Reducing Crime) model, which spotlights positive elements of the neighborhood, actively seeks to engage with neighbors and small business owners about safety priorities and leverages law enforcement resources to improve safety. In this way, NWSP can improve the real and perceived safety of the neighborhood to attract economic development opportunities.
4. Creating a Legacy of Health and Wellness
Health and wellness are fundamental to a thriving community. In partnership with Near West Side community organizations Marquette University and Aurora Health Care, NWSP conducts direct outreach to Near West Side residents to gather information about the kind of resources and services needed to support their health and the health of the broader community.
NWSP designs health-focused interventions to support a culture of health in the Near West Side. For example, our team helped connect the Advocate Aurora Mobile Wellness Clinic with Neighborhood House’s food pantry to increase access to primary care regularly. Our team is dedicated to improving health outcomes for residents by providing access to wellness programs, healthy food options and mental health resources – now accessible through our community center, Concordia 27.
5. Strengthening the Heart of Milwaukee’s Diverse Communities
The Near West Side of Milwaukee is home to a rich cultural tapestry of people from diverse backgrounds, experiences and histories. NWSP works to amplify these voices by organizing community events such as Near West Side Week, a weeklong celebration complete with daily activities, opportunities to gather as a community and festivities recognizing the progress and achievements of the Near West Side. When you donate to NWSP, you’re not just giving money—you’re investing in a community that thrives on inclusivity, diversity and collective empowerment.
2025 Goals
As we move into the new year, NWSP invites our community to help keep this momentum going. While much has been accomplished, there’s still more to do!
In 2025, NWSP is hoping to:
- Expand community education opportunities by supplying the Concordia 27 Teaching and Demonstration Kitchen with essentials like pots and pans;
- Support local entrepreneurs who want to open restaurants and stores in the Near West Side by connecting them with business coaches and mentors,
- Offset the costs of housing units in Concordia 27 to keep the units affordable for neighbors making $15-$20 an hour;
- And more!
How You Can Help
Giving to NWSP is an investment in people, places and potential. The work we do is not just about improving our neighborhood of neighborhoods—it’s about transforming the lives of our neighbors. But we can’t do this without you! Whether you’re able to give a one-time donation, set up a recurring contribution or volunteer your time, your support can make a huge difference.
This holiday season, consider bringing a bit of cheer to the Near West Side by participating in Giving Tuesday on Dec. 3, a nationwide day for charitable giving.
Your support can make all the difference. Donate today at https://nearwestsidemke.org/give/
