Milwaukee Parks Foundation Launches Resident-Led Park Activation Fund

MILWAUKEE, WI – Milwaukee Parks Foundation (MPF) has launched a $40,000 initial Request for Proposals (RFP) for resident-led park projects focused on Health and Wellness, Community Care, or Collective Joy. MPF is seeking applications from community groups and grassroots organizations that wish to activate or improve a Milwaukee County Park. Selected projects will be granted funds ranging in amount from $500 to $10,000.

The Resident-Led Park Activation “Sprouts” Fund is part of a larger “Seeds & Sprouts” strategy for MPF. Seeds and Sprouts tackles challenges faced by the Milwaukee County Parks System by investing in system-wide solutions targeting the long-term sustainability of parks, while harnessing the power of community through resident-led catalytic projects. This strategy advances MPF’s mission and vision to collectively steward a thriving parks system that benefits all:

“When people have power and resources to improve their public spaces, magic happens. Often with or without funding, there are incredible individuals and organizations working tirelessly to improve our parks. This fund is a small first step in acknowledging that work and passion. We cannot wait to see the ideas.” Rebecca Stoner, Executive Director with the Milwaukee Parks Foundation.

The Sprouts Fund RFP is the result of a 2022 invitation-only funding cycle that resulted in the sponsorship of four park activation projects, including community events led by the Amani Youth Council in Moody Park, Johnsons Park collaboration with Alice’s Garden Urban Farm, and community events in Clarke Square and Atkinson Triangle Parks. Milwaukee County Parks partnered closely with MPF on the 2022 Sprouts Fund and will continue the partnership in 2023 and beyond:

“The Sprouts Fund gives people a chance to realize their big idea in parks that need it most. It puts funding and decision-making in neighbors’ hands to bring positive change. We are so proud to help bring this opportunity to neighbors.’’ Tony Giron, Engagement Manager with Milwaukee County Parks.

This year community groups are asked to submit their applications for funding by April 14, 2023.

About Milwaukee Parks Foundation

Milwaukee Parks Foundation was established in 2019 with the mission of engaging our community in supporting Milwaukee County Parks to collectively steward a thriving park system. Through this effort, the Foundation fosters dynamic connections through our land and community, expanding what is possible in our neighborhoods, and engaging residents in supporting a safe and vibrant parks system that benefits all. Milwaukee Parks Foundation provides support where it’s most needed, complementing Parks operations and expanding Milwaukee County Parks’ engagement capacity while cultivating philanthropic support and community involvement. For additional information, visit mkeparksfoundation.org.

NOTE: This press release was submitted to Urban Milwaukee and was not written by an Urban Milwaukee writer. It has not been verified for its accuracy or completeness.