Youth Forward MKE is investing in change. So far this year, they’ve provided $400,000 in Partner Capacity Building Grants to five local youth-serving organizations. The funding, informed by discussions with youth ambassadors and the larger coalition, is intended to expand the work of coalition partners and fuel their innovative youth-centered programming.

On June 21, Youth Forward MKE hosted its first ever in-person meeting, which blended youth-led discussions with immersive data and thought partnership. Despite the heat and the sun beating down on the rooftop of CORE El Centro, where the event was held, nearly 30 youth, staff and partners showed up to listen, learn and support our mission of reshaping education in Milwaukee.

“We aim to be different.” That’s what Youth Forward MKE promised nearly one year ago when they officially launched their youth-adult partnership. Now, with a cohort of nine youth ambassadors and a clear framework for the future, they’re putting their words into action and showcasing what it looks like for youth to wield the power.

During their December meeting, Youth Forward MKE highlighted two local organizations who are demonstrating what it looks like to authentically partner with youth: Youth Justice Milwaukee and the United Way Community Schools Partnership.

At their September 28 Coalition meeting, Youth Forward MKE didn’t just talk about youth leadership – they demonstrated this leadership in action. Attendees learned firsthand from Youth Forward Ambassadors and youth representatives of local organizations precisely what it means to prioritize youth voice.