Milwaukee's green spaces are getting a helping hand with the formation of Friends of Jackson and Manitoba Parks (FoJMParks), a nonprofit group that announced its launch aimed at giving a boost to Jackson and Manitoba Parks in the area. With a dedicated mission to foster inclusive, accessible, and sustainable public spaces, the group rolled out on Tuesday, according to the Milwaukee County Board of Supervisors.
At the helm as coordinator and co-founder of FoJMParks is J. Haselhoef, who's opened doors for those interested in becoming involved with the effort, offering up the group's contact at [email protected], situating itself as a beacon for community engagement especially now that Milwaukee County Parks grapples with extensive funding deficiencies and over $500 million in backlogged maintenance, the demand for civic unity and stewardship becomes critical. Grassroots endeavors are praised by local supervisors, including Supervisor Sky Z. Capriolo, who said, “I love it when people in our community band together to celebrate what makes the area special and advocate for the best use of our amazing resources. I can’t wait to work with this group on projects that will make a true difference to the quality of life in the neighborhoods surrounding these park.”
Success of communal spaces often hinges on people who see beyond the fabric of the park, who seek to sew together the community through engagement, interdependence, and a rally towards common goals, Supervisor Juan Miguel Martinez champions the vision laid out by FoJMParks, noting their significant impact on the social ecosystem of his district, “Having a place where neighbors can come together, connect, and get the services they need would really bring people closer and help keep the park going strong for years to come. Our parks are part of our everyday lives here on the South Side, and we’ve got to make sure they stay open, welcoming, and well taken care of,” Martinez told the Milwaukee County Board of Supervisors.
The nonprofit has already submitted proposals aimed at improving local parks, including plans for a new community center in Jackson Park and additional landscape enhancements. These efforts follow recent upgrades to sports courts and naturalization work supported by the Milwaukee Metropolitan Sewerage District. Residents will have an opportunity to learn more and offer input during the first community meeting on January 6 at the Zablocki Library conference room. The group has also invited community members to stay informed and participate through its Facebook page.
