The Milwaukee Awards for Neighborhood Development Innovation (known as the MANDIs) took place on Thursday, Aug. 14, celebrating the people and organizations driving the revitalization and growth of Milwaukee’s neighborhoods. The signature event returned to Potawatomi Casino Hotel, drawing a near-capacity crowd of nearly 500 guests.
Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC), which administers the MANDIs, is also celebrating the 30th anniversary of its Milwaukee office. This milestone was highlighted with congratulatory remarks from U.S. Sen. Tammy Baldwin and Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley, accompanied by a highlight video.
LISC Milwaukee continues to seize every opportunity to recognize the innovative and impactful work taking place in Milwaukee neighborhoods. Across the city, people are working hard to create safe, healthy, and vibrant communities, and the MANDIs shine a spotlight on those whose efforts make our neighborhoods stronger.
"After a tough week for many in our city, MANDI 2025 was a powerful reflection of the continued resilience, commitment, and innovation of so many Milwaukeeans. While also celebrating LISC Milwaukee’s anniversary and highlighting our three decades of impact, we remain committed to amplifying local voices and investing in the changemakers shaping our city’s future,” said Theodore Lipscomb, Sr., Executive Director of LISC Milwaukee, the nonprofit host of the MANDIs.
The event was emceed by Gerron Jordan, WISN-Channel 12 Morning Anchor. Welcoming remarks were made by LISC National Vice-President & Chief of Staff, Tahirih Ziegler.
City of Milwaukee Mayor Cavalier Johnson, LISC Milwaukee Executive Director, Theodore Lipscomb, Sr., and presenting sponsor Vincent Mack, Assistant Vice President & Community Affairs Manager, US Bank.
Advancing a Healthier Wisconsin Endowment Community Health Award was presented by Deputy Director, Dr. Ugwuji Maduekwe. This award acknowledges an organization working to eliminate health disparities through systems change. The award was given to Serenity Inns Treatment Centers.
Awarded for an innovative approach to a community problem, the Associated Bank Trailblazer Award was presented by Amanda Hernandez, Vice President, Community Accountability Officer of Associated Bank. This award was given to Bridge Builders, Inc.-Block Transformation.
Awarded for commitment and effectiveness over time, the BMO Cornerstone Award was presented by Jessica Noth, Vice President, Regional Manager, Community & Homeownership Advancement. This award was given to Walnut Way Conservation Corp.
Awarded to a public space that builds community, the Brewers Community Foundation Public Space Award was presented by LISC-Milwaukee, Advisory Board Chair, Roger Sandell, accompanied by the Milwaukee Brewers Racing Sausages. This award was given to National DIY Skatepark.
Awarded for a real estate project that improves the community, the Husch Blackwell Building Blocks Award was presented by Brad Dallet, Partner at Husch Blackwell, LLC. This award was given to Urban Ecology Center-Washington Park Renovation and Expansion.
The JPMorgan Chase Economic Development Award was presented by Andrew Keller, Managing Director, Market Manager for JPMorgan Chase Bank. This award was given to HoneyBee Sage Wellness and Apothecary, LLC.
Awarded to an individual for leadership, the Navigator Award was presented by LISC, National Program Vice President, Tiffany Royster. This award was given to Brenda Campbell of SecureFutures.
Three organizations were named for the Wells Fargo People’s Choice Award, an online social media campaign where the public votes for their favorite finalists across all award categories. These
awards were presented by Otis Hosley, Regional Banking District Senior Manager, for Wells Fargo Bank. With over 3,200 votes cast, the winners included: The Bread of Healing Clinic, Urban Ecology Center-Washington Park Renovation and Expansion, and HoneyBee Sage Wellness and Apothecary, LLC. The Wells Fargo People's Choice Awardees each receive a $1,000 contribution.
All MANDI winners received a commemorative trophy and $1,000 contribution. Finalists and winners are selected by a volunteer selection committee comprised of 32 private, public, and community volunteers.