Program helps beautify neighborhoods, provide job opportunites

MILWAUKEE (WITI) -- A violent summer in Milwaukee has cast a dark shadow on the city, but residents in the Clarke Square neighborhood are working to bring back the beauty.

The Neighborhood Ambassador program assists in cleaning up litter, removing graffiti, and watching for possible criminal activity in south side neighborhoods. The program also provides ambassadors with potential job opportunities. Alderman Bob Donovan calls it a "win-win slam dunk."

“Not only are these individuals providing valuable community service work, but they are also a welcome presence in neighborhoods, providing extra eyes and ears for possible signs of trouble or suspicious activity,” said Donovan.

Journey House is partnering with United Migrant Opportunity Services, or UMOS, to assist the program in getting workers on a payroll.

"By having the Neighborhood Ambassadors out, it makes the neighborhood safer because the more caring adults, the less nonsense is going to go on because people are going to prevent that nonsense," said Michele Bria, CEO of Journey House. "It really is a can-do attitude in this neighborhood."

Resident Ryan Lawson became involved with the program after encountering employment hardships. He's looking forward to improving the quality of life for others while using the opportunity to find work through Journey House.

"It's helping me continue my skills and seeking employment that I really need and want. It's also just bringing a positive aspect in my life, to my home," said Lawson.

The Neighborhood Ambassadors program is in its seventh year, but until this year, it had only operated during the summer months.

Alderman Donovan was able to secure additional funding and the program is now running year-round. Donovan is hopeful the program will soon expand to other city neighborhoods.