THE REVITALIZER

July 2026

Dear Community Partner,

Every senior deserves to age safely at home.

Every referral has the power to change a life.

Every day, older adults across Wisconsin face a risk that is both devastating and often preventable: a fall in their own home.

Wisconsin ranks among the highest states in the nation for fatal falls among older adults. Behind every statistic is a parent, grandparent, neighbor, or friend whose independence, health, and quality of life can change in an instant.

At Revitalize Milwaukee, we believe every senior deserves the opportunity to age safely, independently, and with dignity in the home they love. That is why we are asking for your partnership in identifying homeowners who could benefit from this life-changing program.

We are currently seeking referrals for homeowners who:

• Are 62 years of age or older
• Own and occupy their home in Milwaukee or Waukesha County
• Have a household income at or below 80% of the Area Median Income (AMI)
• 
  

Through the Older Adults Home Modification Program (OAHMP), a highly qualified Occupational Therapist and Construction Manager visit the home to conduct a comprehensive safety assessment and identify potential fall hazards. They then develop recommendations for practical modifications that can make the home safer and more accessible.

But the program does not stop there.

Revitalize Milwaukee sends a professional contractor to complete the recommended safety modifications at absolutely no cost to the homeowner. Yes — no cost. Thanks to the generosity of our supporters and funding partners, eligible seniors receive both the professional assessment and the home modifications they need to remain safe and independent.

For many seniors living on fixed incomes, these improvements would otherwise be financially out of reach. Yet simple modifications—such as grab bars, handrails, improved lighting, stairway improvements, or other safety enhancements—can dramatically reduce the risk of a devastating fall.

No one should lose their independence because they cannot afford to make their home safer.

We need your help reaching the seniors who need this program most. If you work with older adults, caregivers, faith communities, neighborhood organizations, healthcare providers, or families, please share this opportunity and connect eligible homeowners with Revitalize Milwaukee.

A single referral could prevent a serious injury, preserve a senior's independence, and provide a family with priceless peace of mind.

Together, we can ensure more Wisconsin seniors remain safe, secure, and thriving in the place they call home.



Thank you for your partnership and your commitment to the well-being of our older adults.

With gratitude,

Melanie Roach, CEO

Revitalize Milwaukee

Look for us on the road in our new Revitalize Project truck!

We're Raising Roofs!



In just 11 months, Revitalize Milwaukee successfully completed over 70 roofs for homeowners in need. Our proven experience and efficient project management demonstrate our expertise in delivering high-quality roofing solutions

that protect families and preserve safe housing.

June was full of Revitalize Projects! We are so grateful to our sponsors for their impactful changes with each Revitalize Project.



No single organization can solve complex community challenges alone. Lasting impact is created when dedicated partners align their strengths, share responsibility, and work together toward a common goal.

Associated Bank Revitalize Project

State Bar of Wisconsin Construction Division Revitalize Project

Ehler's Revitalize Project

The Home Depot Revitalize Projects

TriCity Bank Revitalize Project

Building Hope 2026

Building Hope Student: Shaheem Smith

My name is Shaheem M. Smith. I am 31 years old and was born and raised in Chicago, Illinois. I learned about the Building Hope program through a job fair, but looking back, it feels like much more than an opportunity—it feels like an answered prayer.

My journey has not been easy. I faced many challenges early in life and experienced difficult times that could have easily defined my future. Instead, through those struggles, I found God, gained a new perspective, and became a better man. That transformation gave me hope, purpose, and the belief that I have been given a second chance at life. I do not take that second chance for granted. Every day, I am committed to making the most of it and creating a future that I can be proud of.

The Building Hope program means so much to me because it allows me to combine my passion for working with my hands with my desire to make a difference in the lives of others. I have always enjoyed building and creating, and I dream of one day helping construct homes that provide safety, stability, and dignity for families in need. I am especially passionate about helping those experiencing homelessness because I understand how important hope and opportunity can be when someone is trying to rebuild their life.

Helping others brings me genuine joy. Knowing that my work could improve someone's life or give them a place to call home puts a smile on my face and motivates me to keep moving forward. Through this program, I am gaining valuable skills, confidence, and direction for my future.



I hope to continue my education and pursue a career in a skilled trade such as plumbing, electrical work, or masonry. My goal is not only to build a successful career but also to use my skills to serve others and give back to my community. Building Hope is helping me lay the foundation for that future, and I am grateful for the opportunity to prove that with faith, determination, and support, a second chance can become a new beginning.

OAHMP Program 
Keeping Wisconsin’s Senior Homeowners Safe

Where They Belong — At Home

Wisconsin currently ranks #1 in fatal falls among older adults -- a heartbreaking and largely preventable reality that no family should have to face. Revitalize Milwaukee is working urgently to change that through its OAHMP Program (Older Adult Home Modification Program).

Through this life-changing program -- click here for details -- an Occupational Therapist/Construction Manager comes directly into a senior’s home to identify safety risks and recommend practical, meaningful modifications that help prevent falls and serious injuries before they happen. Best of all, this service is provided at NO CHARGE for seniors age 62 and older whose income is at or below 80% of the area median income (shown below), ensuring that safety, dignity, and independence remain within reach for those who need them most.



Help us spread the word because every senior deserves to age safely in the place they call home.

No one should lose their independence to a fall that could have been prevented.

Thank you!

Sincerely-

The Revitalize Milwaukee Team

Income limits as of June 2026:



For questions or to learn more about the Older Adults Home

Modification Program you can contact Revitalize Milwaukee

using the information below.

Revitalize Milwaukee

(414) 312-7531

Together, we build stronger communities, home by home, block by block.