Milwaukee nonprofits play a crucial role in shaping the city’s social, economic, and cultural landscape. As a city with a deep-rooted history and a strong sense of community, Milwaukee thrives due to the dedication and resilience of organizations committed to making a lasting impact.
These nonprofits serve as lifelines for thousands of residents, providing essential resources, advocacy, and support in areas ranging from food security and housing to education and workforce development.
At the heart of Milwaukee’s nonprofit ecosystem are organizations tackling some of the most pressing social issues. Whether working to bridge economic disparities, promote health and wellness, support youth empowerment, or champion environmental sustainability, these groups ensure that individuals and families have access to the support they need to thrive.
Many of these organizations operate through collaboration with local businesses, government agencies, and volunteers, forming a network of community-driven initiatives that foster long-term positive change.
From feeding the hungry and providing shelter to the homeless to empowering marginalized communities and offering educational opportunities, Milwaukee nonprofits are instrumental in building a stronger and more inclusive city. In this listicle, we highlight fifteen remarkable Milwaukee-based nonprofits that are making a tangible difference in the lives of residents, helping to create a brighter and more equitable future for all.
Nonprofit Resources
The Charity Charge resource hub is dedicated to providing tips, tools, and information to help your nonprofit create and grow a modern organization. Learn more
Milwaukee Homeless Veterans Initiative
The Milwaukee Homeless Veterans Initiative (MHVI) is dedicated to serving veterans who are facing homelessness or at risk of losing stable housing. They provide essential resources such as housing assistance, employment support, and healthcare referrals.
Mission & Impact: Their mission is to end veteran homelessness by ensuring every veteran has the support they need to transition into permanent housing. Their outreach programs have assisted thousands of veterans in regaining independence and stability.
Feeding America Eastern Wisconsin
Feeding America Eastern Wisconsin is the state’s largest food bank, committed to ending hunger by providing nutritious food to families in need. Partnering with over 600 pantries, meal programs, and shelters, the organization serves millions of meals each year.
Mission & Impact: The mission of Feeding America Eastern Wisconsin is to solve hunger and provide access to nutritious food through community partnerships. By rescuing surplus food and coordinating large-scale distribution efforts, the nonprofit ensures that families facing food insecurity have reliable access to meals. Their programs include fresh produce initiatives, child nutrition programs, and advocacy efforts to address the root causes of hunger.
United Way of Greater Milwaukee & Waukesha County
United Way of Greater Milwaukee & Waukesha County is dedicated to improving the health, education, and financial stability of local residents. By collaborating with businesses, government agencies, and community partners, they fund programs that uplift those in need.
Mission & Impact: Their mission is to create lasting change by mobilizing resources and empowering local communities. Through their impact areas—health, education, and financial stability—they support initiatives such as early childhood education programs, workforce training, and healthcare access. Their efforts have positively affected thousands of families across the region.
The Water Council
The Water Council is a Milwaukee-based nonprofit focused on water stewardship and innovation. Recognized globally for its leadership in water technology, the organization brings together businesses, researchers, and policymakers to solve water-related challenges.
Mission & Impact: The mission of The Water Council is to drive economic, environmental, and social sustainability through water leadership. By fostering collaboration and investing in water-focused startups, they support solutions that improve water efficiency, sanitation, and conservation both locally and worldwide.
Milwaukee Habitat for Humanity
Milwaukee Habitat for Humanity is dedicated to building and repairing homes for families in need. By mobilizing volunteers and partnering with homeowners, they provide affordable housing solutions that strengthen communities.
Mission & Impact: The organization’s mission is to create affordable homeownership opportunities and revitalize neighborhoods. Their programs empower families through financial literacy education and hands-on homebuilding experiences, fostering long-term stability and equity for residents.
Running Rebels Community Organization
Running Rebels Community Organization engages, mentors, and supports at-risk youth through a variety of enrichment programs. Their initiatives range from mentorship and violence prevention to workforce development and recreational activities.
Mission & Impact: Their mission is to provide positive alternatives for youth to help them make meaningful life choices. By offering educational support, job training, and leadership development, Running Rebels has transformed countless lives and reduced crime in Milwaukee neighborhoods.
Sojourner Family Peace Center
Sojourner Family Peace Center is the largest nonprofit in Wisconsin dedicated to ending domestic violence. They provide comprehensive services, including shelter, advocacy, and crisis intervention for survivors and their families.
Mission & Impact: Their mission is to ensure the safety and empowerment of domestic abuse survivors. Through prevention programs, legal advocacy, and trauma-informed care, Sojourner helps individuals rebuild their lives free from violence.
Teens Grow Greens
Teens Grow Greens is a nonprofit organization that empowers Milwaukee youth through hands-on learning in sustainable agriculture, entrepreneurship, and leadership development.
Mission & Impact: Their mission is to cultivate healthy, responsible leaders by engaging youth in urban farming, job training, and business skills. Participants gain valuable work experience and develop essential life skills that prepare them for future success.
Wisconsin Humane Society
The Wisconsin Humane Society is dedicated to the well-being of animals in need. With shelters across the state, they provide adoption services, medical care, and community education on responsible pet ownership.
Mission & Impact: Their mission is to build a community where people and animals thrive together. They rescue and rehabilitate thousands of animals annually while also offering resources for pet owners to keep their animals healthy and safe.
Hope House of Milwaukee
Hope House of Milwaukee provides shelter and support services for homeless individuals and families, helping them transition into stable housing.
Mission & Impact: Their mission is to end homelessness by offering emergency housing, job training, and educational programs. Through supportive services, they empower individuals to regain independence and financial security.
Milwaukee Rescue Mission
Milwaukee Rescue Mission offers emergency shelter, addiction recovery, and job training programs for those in crisis.
Mission & Impact: Their mission is to restore hope to people struggling with homelessness and addiction. They provide food, shelter, counseling, and vocational training to help individuals rebuild their lives.
Guest House of Milwaukee
Guest House of Milwaukee focuses on providing housing and supportive services for individuals experiencing homelessness.
Mission & Impact: Their mission is to help people find permanent housing and stability by offering mental health services, employment assistance, and case management.
Next Door Foundation
Next Door Foundation supports early childhood education and literacy initiatives for underprivileged children in Milwaukee.
Mission & Impact: Their mission is to close the education gap by providing high-quality early learning programs and family support services.
Victory Garden Initiative
Victory Garden Initiative promotes urban agriculture and healthy food access through community gardens and education programs.
Mission & Impact: Their mission is to empower communities to grow their own food, fostering food security and environmental sustainability.
