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What We're Working On
TRM & UEDA: Estate & Legacy Planning Training Recap
Nearly 40 financial coaches and practitioners joined us earlier this month for our Estate & Legacy Planning training! Offered to UEDA’s Financial Health Coach and Take Root Milwaukee networks, the session helped practitioners strengthen their ability to guide clients through estate and legacy planning. Thank you to Coretta Herring of Pathways to Financial Empowerment and our presenters for sharing their expertise!
Take Action in support of funding in city budget
The City of Milwaukee's 2027 proposed budget includes level funding for critical homeownership programs, including $1.4M for Down Payment Assistance, $1M for Strong Homes Loan Program, and $1M for Compliance Loan Program. With tight budget constraints, we support funding these programs at the proposed levels. Show your support for these programs. Thank Mayor Johnson for including funding in his proposed budget; ask your alderperson to support level funding for these programs; and attend the budget public hearing to show your support. Click HERE for information on this call to action.
Emerging Topics Series #3: Redefining the Food Access Landscape (10/28)
Yesterday 34 people joined us to hear from partners at the Near West Side Partners, Outpost Natural Foods, City of Milwaukee Dept. of City Development, and the African American Roundtable about how they are increasing access to food with people and neighborhoods in mind. A huge thank you to our speakers Margaret Mittelstadt, Matt Rejc, Lindsey St. Arnold Bell, Markasa Tucker-Harris, and Shirley Tucker, and our guests, who share thoughtful questions and ideas. A full recap & pictures will be posted on UEDA's website and social media soon!
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UEDA Membership Brown Bag Lunch & Learn | Join us with a bag lunch in an informal setting.
Hear from Data You Can Use about the DYCU Hub, a public collection of datasets, tools, visualizations, and reports developed to improve access and usability of data for Milwaukee’s data users, unlocking the ability to download, transform, and use data in a powerful new way.
Participants may bring a laptop or a tablet, though access to a device is not mandatory for participation.
There will be time to ask questions about this topic or anything that is on your mind. Beverages and dessert will be provided. There is no charge. | | | |
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Q4 BOGM Coalition Meeting | Our Q4 Quarterly Meeting will feature Rick Banks from Milwaukee County's Office of Equity. He will share an overview of the County's recent work with the Cities for Financial Empowerment (CFE) Fund CityStart Initiative. Since 2025 they've been working to develop a financial empowerment blueprint for the County that builds on a shared understanding of residents' financial needs.
We will also provide an update on BOGM 2027 planning and celebrate Victor Frasher of Educators Credit Union, who was recognized by UEDA as a their 2026 Extraordinary Volunteer. | | | |
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Carmen Pitre Recognized in Milwaukee Magazine's 2026 Betty Awards
Congratulations to Carmen Pitre, CEO of Sojourner Family Peace Center, for being named a 2026 Betty Awards honoree by Milwaukee Magazine! Recognized as a “Standout Sister,” Carmen is celebrated for her 25 years of leadership and dedication to supporting survivors of domestic violence and strengthening services for women and families throughout Milwaukee.
Greater Milwaukee Foundation Highlights Changemaker Cohort
The Greater Milwaukee Foundation recently shared a video highlighting the impact of its Changemaker Cohort, featuring JPMorgan Chase and Southside Organizing Center (SOC). Through long-term partnerships, flexible funding, and collaboration, the initiative supports community-led organizations working to address systemic inequities, strengthen leadership, and create lasting change in Milwaukee.
Watch the Video
Help Shape Southeastern Wisconsin's Future – VISION 2060 Survey
The Southeastern Wisconsin Regional Planning Commission (SEWRPC) wants your input on VISION 2060, the Region's next long-range land use and transportation plan. Share what you value about your community and what improvements you'd like to see over the next 35 years. Your feedback will help guide future decisions about community growth, transportation, and natural resources.
Take the survey and help shape the Region's future!
SecureFutures Calling all champions of financial empowerment!
If you believe in the importance of financial capability and in the power of equipping young people with that knowledge, SecureFutures needs you. They are currently recruiting volunteers to help deliver engaging financial education programming to high school students in the spring semester. No financial expertise is required. All training, materials, and ongoing support provided.
Learn more and complete our interest form or email Stephaine@securefutures.org.
State extends contract for food, health, and housing services in Milwaukee County.
UMOS will continue to serve as an interim provider of anti-poverty services with the remainder of federal block grants funds that originally had been allocated to SDC. The funding supports their Community Pathways Program and services. Read more.
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Member & Partner Jobs
UEDA members Milwaukee Community Crossroads, Safe & Sound, SecureFutures, The Guest House, and Visit Milwaukee are currently hiring. Visit the Jobs That Help website for information and a calendar of events.
If you are a member and have an opportunity in community development or local government, contact sehiry@uedawi.org to promote in our next newsletter.
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Curds of Wisdom: Today's Housing Crisis: How Did We Get Here?
Wednesday, November 11 | 12:00–1:00 PM | Virtual - Register Here
A Speaker Series for Affordable Housing in Wisconsin. Mike Ruzicka, President of the Greater Milwaukee Association of Realtors, will explore the historical factors behind today's housing crisis. Moderated by UEDA's Debbie Knepke!
Help Identify the Biggest Housing “Turds” of 2026! (Yes, you read that right!)
The Badger State Housing Alliance (BSHA) is looking for nominations for its December Curds of Wisdom webinar! Help create a David Letterman–style Top 10 list of the year's biggest housing affordability and homelessness challenges in Wisconsin. From questionable policies to missed opportunities, serious issues, creative titles, humor, and housing puns are all welcome! Submit your nominations by Wednesday, November 25!
DOA Housing Trust Fund Application Cycle Now Open
The Wisconsin Department of Administration (DOA) has announced $3.1 million in National Housing Trust Fund funding to support the construction and rehabilitation of affordable housing for extremely low-income households earning at or below 30% of County Median Income. Applications are now open, with a deadline of December 15, 2026, at 11:59 PM. Organizations and developers working on affordable housing projects are encouraged to review the funding opportunity and eligibility requirements. Learn More & Apply
Federal Student Loan Default Support Resources
Falling behind on federal student loan payments? The U.S. Department of Education's Defaulted Loans Support Center provides resources to help borrowers understand their options and get back on track. Explore solutions such as loan rehabilitation, consolidation, repayment arrangements, and potential loan discharge programs. The online tool also helps borrowers compare options based on their circumstances.
Explore Resources and Get Support.
New IRS Rules for Trump Accounts: What Families Should Know
New IRS regulations introduce automatic Trump Accounts for eligible children with Social Security numbers. While families may no longer need to open an account themselves, they must still claim the account to manage it and take additional steps to receive the one-time $1,000 federal contribution, if eligible. Learn more about these changes, eligibility requirements, and what families should do next.
Proposed Changes to the U.S. Census
The U.S. Census Bureau is proposing new rules for the decennial census that would change residential criteria and establish restrictions on certain demographic questions. Concerns have been raised about how these changes could affect demographic data and the information communities and governments use to understand local needs and make decisions. The deadline for public comments has been extended to November 2nd. Click here for the NCP Comment Guide. Submit a comment.
Wisconsin Homelessness Continues to Rise Wisconsin’s homeless population increased 4.8% in 2026 to 5,495 people, marking the fifth consecutive year of increases. Rising housing costs, economic conditions, and the expiration of pandemic-era supports are among the factors contributing to the trend. Despite recent increases, Wisconsin continues to report lower rates of homelessness than neighboring states and the nation. Read more from Wisconsin Public Radio
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Financing Options for Small Businesses
Join the Latino Entrepreneurial Network (LEN) on Thursday, November 12, from 5:30–7:30 PM to explore financing options that can support small business growth. Learn about short- and long-term financing, lines of credit versus fixed loans, and resources available through BMO, the Hmong Wisconsin Chamber of Commerce, and the Latino Chamber of Commerce of Southeastern Wisconsin.
The event will take place at 3419 W. Forest Home Ave., Milwaukee, with a virtual option available via Zoom. Registration is free for LEN Amigo Members and $15 for non-members. Register!
Nonprofit Lift Fall Convening
Beyond survival: Building collaboration for the future we want
Wednesday, November 11 | 9:00-11:30 am
At Redeemer Lutheran Church, Milwaukee
Nonprofits across Greater Milwaukee are being asked to do more with less, while resources shift and demands grow. Surviving is not the same as building the future we want. Join nonprofit leaders, consultants, and funders for a morning that pairs real progress with practical learning on how to elevate collaboration and collective impact. This event is free, register here.
The Helen Bader Institute for Nonprofit Management recently updated this dashboard of the statewide economic pulse. Explore data about Wisconsin's 36,000+ nonprofit organizations — the groups behind food banks, hospitals, arts programs, environmental work, housing assistance, and more. Click here
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Understanding Single Fatherhood: Parenting Experiences and Pathways to Support
Wednesday, November 4 | Noon–1:00 PM | Virtual
Join the UW–Madison Institute for Research on Poverty for a webinar exploring the unique parenting experiences and support needs of single fathers. Presenters Tova Walsh, Mario Drain, James Sésay, and Stacey L. Shipe will discuss ways to better connect single fathers with resources and services that support their individual and family needs. Register Here
Habitat's Housing, Race & Equity Workshop – Friday, November 6 | 1:30 - 3:30 PM | The Habitat Office at 3726 N. Booth St.
A free, interactive workshop exploring how historical policies and institutional decisions have shaped housing segregation in Milwaukee. Through data maps, historical timelines, and group discussions, participants will learn about current housing challenges and ways to support a more equitable future.
Learn More & Register
2026 Annual Housing Resource Fair
Saturday, November 7 | 10:00 AM–2:00 PM at North Division High School | 1011 W. Center
Join Aldermen Russell W. Stamper II, DiAndre Jackson, and Common Council President José G. Pérez for the Resource Fair. sponsored by Summit Credit Union.
Attendees can connect with local housing organizations, explore resources, enjoy free giveaways, and participate in workshops covering the homebuying process, homeowners insurance, hiring contractors, and legacy planning.
Consumer Protection: Common Scams and Frauds Impacting Younger Consumers
Tuesday, November 10, 3:30-4:30pm
The Wisconsin Bureau of Consumer Protection has developed a presentation toolkit for educators to incorporate consumer protection into financial literacy education. This session highlights the toolkit, explores common scams and frauds affecting young people, reviews warning signs to watch for, and discusses what to do if someone becomes a victim.
Presenter: Michelle Reinen, Administrator, Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection. Register here
WHEDA Conference 2026: How Housing Happens
November 18–19
Monona Terrace | Madison, WI
Join affordable housing leaders from across Wisconsin for WHEDA’s annual conference! This 1.5-day event will feature breakout sessions, keynote speakers, workshops, networking and more focused on expanding safe, affordable housing across the state. Learn More & Register
WWBIC Annual Luncheon
Entrepreneurship In Motion
Tuesday, December 1st | 10am-2pm
Brookfield Conference Center
This annual celebration features a small business market (almost 100 businesses!), a luncheon, and program. This year's speaker is Amelia Kegel, Co-Owner & Vice-President of Wheel & Sprocket.
Tickets and sponsorship information here.
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Member Spotlight
October 2026
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This month we recognize
Employ Milwaukee and their commitment to the BankWork$® program. They are an active partner in Bank On Greater Milwaukee, and this occupational skills program provides eight weeks of training in retail banking.
We appreciate this effort, which also opens the door for young adults and adults from low-income and communities of color, helping them find and succeed in well-paying jobs that can lead to a lasting career.
Employ Milwaukee recently received funding to work with Go MKE to provide services to justice-impacted youth, another are of work for Bank On with the Community Reintegration Center. We also partner with them on financial education and access to bank accounts for students who participate in the Earn and Learn program.
"At Employ Milwaukee, we believe meaningful change happens through strong partnerships. UEDA has been an exceptional partner, helping advance innovative strategies that connect individuals from underserved communities to career pathways, financial education, and economic opportunity. Their collaborative approach makes them a valued ally in our mission to build a stronger workforce and a more prosperous region," said President & CEO Julie Cayo.
To learn more, visit employmilwaukee.org
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Welcome to these New &
Returning Members!
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Burleigh Street CDC
City of Milwaukee DCD
Community Development Alliance
Jobs That Help
Leo Ries
Prime Financial Credit Union
Safe & Sound
SecureFutures
Spring Bank
The Equitable Bank
United Way of Greater Milwaukee & Waukesha County
Wisconsin Preservation Fund
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Current Members
*Check your email for renewal notices
to remain current!
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Nonprofit &
Governmental
AARP Wisconsin*
Acts Housing
Brehmer Agency
Cinnaire
CLIMB USA*
Community Advocates
Community First
Consumer Credit Counseling Services
Cream City South Community Development Corporation
Data You Can Use
Employ Milwaukee
Ezekiel Community Dev. Corp.
Greater Milwaukee Association of REALTORS
Guest House of Milwaukee*
Historic King Drive BID
Hmong Wisconsin Chamber of Commerce
Independence First
Lad Lake
Landmark Credit Union
Latino Chamber of Commerce
LISC Milwaukee
Menomonee Valley Partners
Metropolitan Milwaukee Fair Housing Council
Milwaukee Community Crossroads*
Milwaukee Community Land Trust*
Milwaukee County Economic Development
Milwaukee County Transit System
Milwaukee Development Corp.
Milwaukee Economic Development Corporation (MEDC)
Milwaukee Habitat for Humanity
Milwaukee Public Library
Near West Side Partners
Northwest Side CDC
Pay It Forward Wisconsin
Revitalize Milwaukee
Riverworks Development Corporation
Rooted & Rising-Washington Park
Self-Help Credit Union
Sherman Park Community Association
Sojourner Family Peace Center
Southeastern Wisconsin Regional Planning Commission
Southside Organizing Center
The Business Council (TBC)
The Gateway to Milwaukee
The Gathering of Southeast WI
TMG Wisconsin
United Community Center
UMOS
UW Credit Union
VIA CDC
Visit Milwaukee
Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade & Consumer Protection (DATCP)
Wisconsin Economic Development Association (WEDA)
Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation (WEDC)
Wisconsin Housing & Economic Development Authority (WHEDA)
Wisconsin LGBT Chamber of Commerce
Wisconsin Partnership for Housing Development (WPHD)
Wisconsin Veterans Chamber of Commerce
WWBIC
YWCA Southeast Wisconsin
Small Businesses
Andrew's Realty
Contexture
Diversified Benefit Services, Inc. (DBS)
Dolomite Marketing*
G Consulting, LLC
Good Flow Enterprises
Goyke & Associates
Homeworks Bronzeville LLC
Impact53
LEAD180 Consulting, LLC
LIFE Wellness and Counseling Services
Lloyd Consulting, Inc
Loving Venti Consulting Practice
Mueller Communications
Narvarte Development
One Grove Strategies
Yes…AND LLC
Corporations & Funders
Associated Bank
Bank Five Nine
Bell Bank Mortgage
BMO
CIBC Bank USA
Erie Insurance - WI
First Federal Bank
Johnson Financial Group
JPMorganChase
Mortgage Guaranty Insurance Corporation (MGIC)
Old National Bank
Outpost Co-op
U.S. Bank
We Energies
Wells Fargo
Zilber Family Foundation
Individuals & Students
Aaron Foley
Adam Bridges
Amy Turim
Barbara Markoff
Casey O'Brien
Christine Davies
Cole Reckamp
Daniel Adams
Dan Brophey*
Frank Martinelli
George Calaway
Irma Yepez Klassen
Joyce Boyland
Julia O'Connor
Kathryn Berger*
Kurt Paulsen
Matthew Melendes
Megan Foley
Neal Kueny
Peter Richardson
Sam Leichtling
Tamara Castle
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See our latest post on LinkedIn!
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