The Milwaukee Awards for Neighborhood Development Innovation (known as the MANDIs) celebrate the "good news" of successful efforts to revitalize neighborhoods and strengthen the community. From public nominations, a volunteer Selection Committee has named 15 finalists for the awards this year.
"The MANDIs provide an opportunity to celebrate Milwaukee’s diverse neighborhoods, and the many passionate, committed people working together to create a better future for themselves, their families, and their communities," said Laura Bray, executive director of LISC Milwaukee. "These finalists represent the future of our city."
Sponsored by U.S. Bank, in partnership with LISC Milwaukee, the MANDIs recognize individuals, organizations and corporations who are improving conditions in Milwaukee’s central city neighborhoods. Finalists are selected from public nominations by a 40-member, independent, cross-sector volunteer committee. Winners will be announced at an Oscar-style gala on Wednesday, March 16, at the Potawatomi Hotel and Casino.
Finalists in five categories were announced at a public event at Company Brewing in the Riverwest neighborhood on Wednesday night. A sixth category, the "Wells Fargo People’s Choice Award," will be given to finalists who receive the most public votes March 7-14. This award is hosted by the Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service website. MANDI 2016 finalists include:
The "Brewers Community Foundation Public Space Award" recognizes a public space that helps build the community:
- Moody Park Revitalization, Milwaukee County Parks & Partners
- Open Doors, Historic Milwaukee, Inc.
- Turtle Park, River Revitalization Foundation
The "BMO Harris Cornerstone Award" recognizes an organization for their commitment and effectiveness over time.
- COA Youth & Family Centers
- Northside Housing Initiative
- Safe & Sound
The "Northern Trust Navigator Award" recognizes an individual for leadership and collaboration.
- Larry and Sharon Adams, Founders, Walnut Way Conservation Corp.
- Rodney Bourrage, Sr., Founder and Executive Director, Operation DREAM
- Dick Larsen, Community Volunteer and Retired President, Larsen Electric
The "PNC Bank Trail Blazer Award" recognizes an innovative approach to a community problem.
- ACTS Housing, Foreclosure Reclamation Project
- Rebuilding Together Greater Milwaukee
- The Wisconsin Cycle, First Stage
The "State Farm Building Blocks Award" recognizes a real estate project that advances the community.
- Maskani Place, Heartland Housing
- Paper Box Lofts, Sherman Associates
- St. Ann Center for Intergenerational Care-Bucyrus Campus, St. Ann Center
