Bucks Foundation donates $1M to 15 organizations; "We're investing in the future of our youth"

MILWAUKEE -- The Milwaukee Bucks Foundation announced on Wednesday, July 19th it will grant $1 million to 15 organizations across the Milwaukee area.

"We're investing in the future of our youth in the City of Milwaukee," said Bucks President Peter Feigin. "We've worked to develop our community in three keys areas: Youth education, youth health and wellness and community betterment."

Bucks President Peter Feigin

Milwaukee County Executive Chris Abele

"When an organization comes to town and they say they're going to give back, if they don't, I see it. But when they step up, I see that too," said Milwaukee County Executive Chris Abele. "In over 20 years, I've never seen an organization like this so committed, with so much follow-up, so much there-there, not just saying, 'Hey, we love your community. We're going to give back.' It's grant after grant after grant; I see it all over the county, I see it in the non-profit community."

Milwaukee Mayor Tom Barrett

"There's a lot to be said about talking the talk. But when you put a million dollars on the table, you've shown me the money. And not only have they shown me the money, they've put together what I would consider a premier all-star team," said Milwaukee Mayor Tom Barrett.

According to a news release from the Bucks, each organization selected to receive funding from the MBF was chosen after a thorough review process and align with one of the Foundation's three focus areas: youth education, youth health and wellness, and community betterment. All 15 community partners will use the MBF funds to improve results within their individual programs.

The Milwaukee Bucks Foundation was launched a little more than a year ago.

"When we launched the Milwaukee Bucks Foundation, our goal was to focus on providing support to organizations which align with our three focus areas,” Milwaukee Bucks Foundation Executive Director Alicia Dupies said. “It was also clear that there was a major need for mentoring. Nearly every one of these organizations provide positive mentoring programs in some capacity. We are excited to strengthen our relationship with these community organizations.”

In addition to receiving funds from the MBF, each of the 15 organizations will have their respective logos and mission statements displayed on a reserved piece of fencing surrounding the Milwaukee Tool Construction site in downtown Milwaukee on Juneau Avenue, McKinley Avenue and Old World Third Street. The signs will remain in place for the duration of construction on the new arena.

“The Milwaukee Bucks Foundation has quickly taken to heart and to action the needs of our community,” United Community Center Executive Director Ricardo Diaz said. “The energy and focus the entire Bucks organization has infused across Milwaukee over the last 18 months is unprecedented. On behalf of all grantees, we are honored to be a recipient of this first grant stream, and look forward to deepening our partnership with the team.”

Below is a full list of grant recipients and their specific plans for the funds: