Blog
Long-term Investments, Real Impact
Strong, strategic investments are helping Milwaukee Succeeds and our partners turn bold ideas into lasting progress. With a dedicated team and the support of our funders, we can respond to community needs, nurture new ideas and pave the way for lasting progress.
2025 Bright Spots
Our 2025 Bright Spots highlight the year’s biggest wins in early education and youth empowerment. From a citywide celebration of ECE to a slew of new youth-led initiatives, our brightest stories of the year showcase our collaboration, innovation and dedication to Milwaukee’s children and families.
Director’s Message: Building the Capacity of our Community
Milwaukee Succeeds’ executive director, Vincent Lyles, reflects on 2025, highlighting achievements in early childhood education and youth empowerment. Through collaboration and innovative programs, the organization is shaping a brighter future for Milwaukee’s children and families.
ECE Outreach: A Q&A with Arati Hernandez
Ambassador Arati Hernandez shares insights from her work connecting with early childhood education providers in Milwaukee’s ThriveOn neighborhood, building trust, strengthening networks and supporting children, families and educators.
ECE Outreach: A Q&A with Jackie Burrell
Ambassador Jackie Burrell reflects on her outreach with Milwaukee’s ECE providers, uncovering the challenges they face, fostering connections, and creating a stronger network to improve care for children and families.
Youth Empowerment in Action
Youth Forward MKE is making moves to empower young people and equip them with the tools to transform their communities. This year, the coalition’s Strategic Priority Workgroup has advanced three bold initiatives designed to support youth and put them at the center of decision-making in Milwaukee.