In keeping with our legacy of initiating enduring projects in our community— the Milwaukee Rotary Centennial Arboretum, the Milwaukee Rotary Amphitheater at Pier Wisconsin, MKE Urban Stables— the RCM Board of Directors decided that the time is right for yet another significant contribution to the community. But what should it be?
Rotarians proposed seven projects, each worthy of careful consideration. After thoughtful deliberation, the selection committee whittled the proposals to three, which were presented at the March 5th Rotary meeting. For those who were not able to attend the program on March 5th, or who would like more time to consider, we have uploaded each projects' presentation, grant narrative, and more below.
Rotarians proposed seven projects, each worthy of careful consideration. After thoughtful deliberation, the selection committee whittled the proposals to three, which were presented at the March 5th Rotary meeting. For those who were not able to attend the program on March 5th, or who would like more time to consider, we have uploaded each projects' presentation, grant narrative, and more below.
Click on each thumbnail photo to play the presentation.
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B-Line Park
Description: The B-Line Park, a world-class, one-mile linear park, will unite the economically divergent Harambee and Riverwest neighborhoods, connect eight neighborhoods along the 3.7-mile Beerline Trail, and offer regional access through the Oak Leaf and Hank Aaron Trails to 35 neighborhoods. Located on Milwaukee’s historic rail line, the B-Line Park will transform this long-disinvested area, open economic opportunities, improve the quality of life for residents, and serve as a regional destination for visitors across southeast Wisconsin.
Read the full narrative proposal here.
Tour Details: Rotarians are invited to join a walking tour of the B-Line Trail on Saturday, March 23rd at 9:00 am. Meet at Kuumba Juice & Coffee, 274 E. Keefe Avenue, (get there a few minutes early to grab a coffee, juice, or pastry!) and we'll walk the 1-mile stretch of the B-Line, see what's already been built and the vision for the future. Please RSVP ahead of time to Corey Zetts at corey@thevalleymke.org. Please also let us know if walking a mile is a challenge, so Darryl can be prepared to drive a golf cart for tour attendees.
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New State Theater
Description: Prepare for a burst of creativity as West Side Arts Un Limited (WSAU) and New State MKE LLC unveil The New State (TNS) — an all-ages music hub in the heart of Milwaukee's Near West Side inspired by and created for our community’s young people. Strategically located on State Street, on a burgeoning commercial corridor currently experiencing a renaissance, this project transcends traditional venues. The New State represents a fusion of artistic expression, community engagement, corporate commitment and economic development in a neighborhood ripe for revitalization. With Rotary’s support, this project has the potential to change lives and transform a community.
Read the full narrative proposal here.
Tour Details: Rotarians, "U2" can be part of the New State Journey! Join us for donuts and a tour on Saturday, March 9th or 23rd at 10:00 am or for a drink and a tour on Wednesday, March 13th at 5:00 pm. Sign up on the link here. If these dates don't work for you, contact Audra Brennan at 414-793-7580 to arrange an alternative date.
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Zoological Society's Empathy for Wildlife
Description: The Zoological Society of Milwaukee's (ZSM) Empathy for Wildlife Performing Arts Project builds upon a popular program, Kohl’s Wild Theater, which has reached over 1.4 million audiences since its inception in 2010. This program incorporates evidence-based concepts by using drama, puppetry, humor, and songs during theater performances to teach audiences about our natural world. While we’re very proud of this award-winning program and its long history in reaching audiences within a 60-mile radius of the Zoo, ZSM decided to dig deeper and bring empathy education practices into this program.
Read the full narrative proposal here.
Tour Details: Rotarians are invited to learn more about the Empathy for Wildlife Performing Arts Project on Tuesday, March 19th from 4:30 to 5:30 pm. Rotarians will gather at the Zoo’s Education Center at 4:30 pm, and leave for a tour of the stage at 4:45pm. Dress for the weather! The stage is outdoors, about a 10 minute walk from the education building. The address is 10005 W Bluemound Rd. Milwaukee, WI 53226. We look forward to seeing you all there! This is for Rotarians and their guests only. You will need to complete this form by Monday March 18th for access into the Zoo.