New Friends Group Launches Nonprofit to Ensure Milwaukee’s Jackson and Manitoba Parks Remain Vibrant and Accessible for Generations
The summer Farmers Market is one of many groups that hosts activities in Jackson Park. Photo credit: Marsha Voeltner/Sept. 2025
Milwaukee, Wis. – Nov. 17, 2025 – Friends of Jackson and Manitoba Parks (FoJMParks), a new organization dedicated to enhancing inclusive and sustainable spaces within these parks, announced its official launch today. The organization will improve and activate these two Milwaukee County Parks through a combination of volunteering, fundraising, and community programming.
FoJMParks will focus on ways to sustain and enhance public spaces to increase the enjoyment and presence of park users. County Parks relies heavily on Friends groups to help give direction to the needs of the parks’ neighbors and make them a reality through their funding efforts.
“I love it when people in our community band together to celebrate what makes the area special and advocate for the best use of our amazing resources,” said Sky Capriolo, County Supervisor in whose district Manitoba Park lies. “I can’t wait to work with [FoJMParks] on projects that will make a true difference to the quality of life in the neighborhoods surrounding these parks.”
The new Friends group has already submitted a series of project requests to County Parks with the hopes of establishing a community center in Jackson Park and ideas to enhance areas of the both parks.
“Creating a space for community gatherings and services would not only strengthen neighborhood ties but also help generate revenue to support the park’s long-term sustainability,” said County Supervisor Juan Miguel Martinez, in whose district lies Jackson Park. “Our Parks are an essential part of life here in Milwaukee County.”
The County Parks financial strain has affected both Jackson and Manitoba Parks with a number of structures closed at both parks due to their need for maintenance.
Community members can connect through the organization’s Facebook page or attend the group’s first public meeting Saturday, 9:00 a.m. at Zablocki Library’s conference room to learn more about how they can get involved in the park’s future.
For more information about FoJMParks, to donate (see the QR code below) or to volunteer, please contact J. Haselhoef at FoJMParks@gmail.com or (414) 377-4840
About Friends of Jackson and Manitoba Parks: Founded in 2025, FoJMParks is a nonprofit organization via its fiscal agent, The Park People of Milwaukee Co., and headquartered in Milwaukee, Wis. Its mission is to empower local residents and resources to enhance Manitoba and Jackson Parks’ inclusive and sustainable spaces, ensuring they remain vibrant and accessible for generations. Its vision is to serve both immediate and long-distance park neighbors recognizing the value that these natural gems hold for all.
NOTE: This press release was submitted to Urban Milwaukee and was not written by an Urban Milwaukee writer. While it is believed to be reliable, Urban Milwaukee does not guarantee its accuracy or completeness.
