An innovative and community-centered approach to honoring the legacy of local leaders reached a historic milestone in September. The first group of distinguished African American leaders to have their names bestowed to a public space in the ThriveOn King community hub were announced at a special reception Sept. 19.
This tribute is possible through generous partners in philanthropy who have chosen to sponsor prominent public spaces and art displays throughout first floor of ThriveOn King to ensure the extraordinary contributions of these community leaders continue to be recognized.
The spaces and honorees confirmed so far include:
- Dr. Dessie Levy Neighborhood Hall sponsored by Donna Devine and George Kaiser
- Billye and Hank Aaron Reception sponsored by Patti and Jack McKeithan Northwoods Fund
- Mildred and Reuben Harpole Connecting Community, Honoring History Art Gallery A sponsored by Greg and Rhonda Oberland
- Ferne Yangyeite Caulker Connecting Community, Honoring History Art Gallery B sponsored by Jim and Ellen Flesch
- Ardie and Wilbur Halyard Connecting Community, Honoring History Art Gallery C sponsored by James A. Schleif and William H. Morley
- Edith and Dr. William Finlayson Wellness Corridor sponsored by MHS Health/Centene Corporation
- Parking Garage – Sponsored by Brewers Community Foundation
- Marvin Pratt will also be honored with a space yet to be selected, sponsored by Lisa and Greg Wesley
ThriveOn King is the result of the catalytic redevelopment of the historic Gimbels-Schuster’s Department Store into a collective home for community gathering; nonprofit partners focused on jobs, education and wellness; residential housing; art; and commercial spaces for community anchors. The building is the cornerstone of the ThriveOn Collaboration, led by the Greater Milwaukee Foundation, the Medical College of Wisconsin and Royal Capital.
The naming opportunities initiative is rooted in the ThriveOn Collaboration’s commitment to investing in the well-being of Bronzeville and celebrating the history and heritage of the community. Residents and other stakeholders nominated a total of 48 leaders to be eligible for these specialized honors. Each has had a lasting impact on the Halyard Park, Harambee and Brewers Hill neighborhoods and Milwaukee overall. Learn about them all on the ThriveOn King website.
All naming sponsorship gifts are directly supporting the community spaces within ThriveOn King, including initial construction, maintenance and community programs.