MILWAUKEE, WI – The Urban Ecology Center is thrilled to announce a major milestone in its transformative “Imagine Campaign” with a groundbreaking ceremony and celebration for the kickoff of the renovation and expansion of its Washington Park location on August 22, 2023, beginning at 4:30pm. Thanks to the generous support of the community, this significant organizational milestone brings the vision of a vibrant and accessible natural space for urban children one step closer to reality.

For 15 years, the Urban Ecology Center in Washington Park has provided access to the wonders of the natural world throughout every season, enriching lives and fostering environmental stewardship. The rebuild of the Washington Park location represents a crucial step forward in growing this impact.

“We are so excited to break ground on this project and create a space that will benefit the entire community,” said Jen Hense, Executive Director of the Urban Ecology Center. “Through the incredible generosity of the community, we have raised 82% of the funds needed to complete the project. We hope our friends and neighbors will join us in this celebration and help us bridge the gap to reach our fundraising goal.”

The Washington Park Groundbreaking Ceremony and Celebration will take place on Tuesday, August 22, 2023. The event will kick off with the Groundbreaking Ceremony from 4:30 PM to 5:30 PM, followed by the Groundbreaking Celebration from 5:30 PM to 7:00 PM. Friends, supporters, and the entire community are invited to join in this momentous occasion- RSVP Here.

Special guest speakers include:

David Crowley, Milwaukee County Executive

Peter Burgelis, Milwaukee County Board of Supervisors

Chairwoman Marcelia Nicholson

Alderman Russell Stamper

The Groundbreaking Celebration promises to be a memorable evening filled with food, engaging activities, and a chance to learn more about the exciting prospects that the rebuilt Washington Park location will offer.

The Urban Ecology Center’s Washington Park location has played a vital role in the revitalization efforts of the neighborhood since its opening in 2007. Last year, this location had over 5,100 student experiences through partnerships with neighboring schools, welcomed over 88,000 visitors to its building and green spaces, and benefited from over 2,500 hours of volunteer work.

With the renovation and expansion, the Urban Ecology Center aims to more than double the capacity of its Neighborhood Environmental Education Project program, significantly increasing its reach from 13 to 31 schools within the first three years. Additionally, the new education and community center will provide greater opportunities for preschool environmental education programs, furthering the Center’s impact on the community.

Join the Urban Ecology Center on August 22, 2023, as they break ground on this remarkable project and embark on a path toward a greener, more vibrant future for Washington Park. Together, we can make a lasting impact on the lives of countless individuals and the entire community.

The Imagine Campaign will allow us to introduce more people to the transformational properties of nature, ensure UEC’s longevity to reach generations of people, and respond to interest in our model so we can spread our knowledge and deepen our impact.

Plans include:

Washington Park Improvements – In Progress Riverland Development – Coming Soon

Endowment Growth – Ongoing Organizational Excellence – Ongoing For more information about the Imagine Campaign and how to make a donation, please visit  secure.qgiv.com/event/uecimaginecampaign/