About Us
Nearby Nature Milwaukee, which began in 2017, focuses primarily on engaging community residents through our work in schools, partnerships with neighborhood organizations, and nature‑based outings and activities. Our programs are rooted in neighborhoods experiencing the compounded effects of economic hardship and environmental injustice, with a particular emphasis on local green spaces and the Lincoln Creek Greenway.
We are deeply grateful for the foundation support that sustains much of our programming, and we also rely on the generosity of individual donors who believe in this mission. Every contribution helps us expand community‑led environmental stewardship and deepen our impact.
At the heart of our work is empowering residents with the knowledge and tools needed to care for their environment. We believe that building a strong, unified community is essential to addressing environmental challenges and creating a sustainable future.
We are committed to revitalizing neglected neighborhood spaces through ecological restoration and community‑driven action. The legacy of systemic racism—including limited access to trails, parks, and green spaces—continues to shape health and well‑being in our service area. Our work directly addresses these inequities by expanding access, strengthening community connections, and restoring natural spaces for collective benefit.
You can make a gift quickly and easily here.
Our Goal
Our goal is to do more than simply bring programs into communities and expect people to participate. We are developing a community-driven approach in which residents help identify priorities, shape programming, participate in stewardship, and develop environmental leadership skills. Through partnerships with residents, schools, community organizations, and public agencies, Nearby Nature MKE works to leverage resources and create sustainable opportunities for community-led renewal and care of natural areas.