This January, two organizations will move into The Shops of Grand Avenue through the mall’s "Creativity Works Here" initiative. 

TRUE Skool, an urban arts-based youth organization, and Reproductive Justice Collective, which increases the engagement and leadership of women and girls of color to transform systems and policies, will take over the old WUWM radio station space on the lower level.

The groups will host a Grand Opening celebration in conjunction with Gallery Night on Friday, Jan. 17 from 5 to 9 p.m.

The event is free and will feature an anniversary timeline installation, student and staff artwork, performances, student-led tours, live music and refreshments.

TRUE Skool is a 10-year-old, non-profit organization with youth programming rooted in hip-hop culture. They group has already worked with Spreenkler Creative, a design and technology company also located in Grand Avenue, on an initiative to create more opportunity for young people of color in the creative sector. 

They will also partner with co-tenant, Reproductive Justice Collective, on integrating issues related to reproductive health and political representation among women of color into programming for TRUE Skool’s Be Girl Project.

"We accomplish our work with partner organizations to ensure that the voices of women and girls of color are heard," said Sarah Noble, managing director of the Reproductive Justice Collective. "Co-locating with TRUE Skool is an exciting opportunity that supports our continued work with young women."

TRUE Skool, Reproductive Justice Collective and many of their new neighbors are part of a growing creative response movement in Milwaukee and across the country — an organic groundswell of artists, activists and entrepreneurs who are finding creative new ways to solve old problems.