OUR IMPACT

Founded in 2019, Milwaukee Parks Foundation was created to engage our community in collectively stewarding a thriving park system. Our Founding Board of Directors recognized that without action, the trails we explore, the playgrounds where our children laugh, and the peaceful retreats we rely on were at risk.

Thanks to the unwavering support of park champions, community partners, staff members, and donors, we’re revitalizing green spaces, expanding access to recreation, and strengthening community connections throughout Milwaukee County. From renovated basketball courts and vibrant community murals to new picnic areas and restored natural habitats, each project reflects the power of neighbors coming together and families rediscovering the joy of their parks.

TiefenthalerPark - PHOTO COURTESY ISAAC ROWLETT

2026-2029 Strategic Plan

Milwaukee Parks Foundation is committed to ensuring that every park, in every neighborhood, has the resources and support needed to thrive. That is why over the next four years, we have set aggressive goals to deepen our investment in the people, places and partnerships that make our parks stronger. Together with community members, donors, volunteers, businesses, and public leaders, we will work toward a future where every resident can experience the benefits of vibrant, welcoming, and accessible parks.

PILLAR 1

INVEST IN PARKS

Increase Seeds and Sprouts investments by 100% over four years (25% year over year) to create equitable amenities, access, and partnerships for Milwaukee County Parks

PILLAR 2

ADVOCACY & ENGAGEMENT

Increase engagement with MPF to support parks and advocate for at least $500,000 in public funding for Seeds & Sprouts projects

PILLAR 3

CAPACITY & EXCELLENCE

MPF will raise $9.5 million in philanthropic support for our parks and MPF capacity to provide excellent support to our partners and parks

A Strategic Approach

Through our Seeds & Sprouts strategy, we invest in both short-term community activation projects and long-term park improvements, ensuring impact that’s both immediate and lasting. Guided by the Milwaukee County Parks Equity Index, our investments focus on areas that have seen the greatest disinvestment, advancing our shared vision of a park system where every neighborhood can thrive and every resident belongs. Most importantly, seeds inform sprouts and sprouts inform seeds. It takes all of us to build a vibrant parks system for all.

Seeds investments contribute to the long-term sustainability of our County Parks System. By investing in system-wide solutions, MPF plants seeds for a parks system that can be enjoyed for years to come. The Focus Areas for these investments include youth enrichment, priority park projects, and environmental sustainability & justice.

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Sprouts Resident-Centered Park Activation

Sprouts investments harness the power of community. By investing in resident-led catalytic projects, MPF sprouts ideas, activation, engagement and ownership across our parks system. Examples of these investments include community events, park murals, and park-based programming for neighbors.

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