We help people who are ready to change, get ready to work.
Through hope, high expectations and holistic support, we transform lives by helping people get and keep good jobs.
Henry’s Story
"As I got more and more involved at JobsWork MKE, in learning all of these skills, I just wanted to keep going. They taught me people skills and helped me with my resume. They gave me financial goals and a financial coach. They even helped me with my license."
Why We're Here
The problems of chronic unemployment and generational poverty go hand-in hand. Consider where Milwaukee ranks among the nation’s 50 largest metropolitan areas*:
The Highest Black poverty rate – 33.4% -- almost five times the white rate.
Lowest annual household income for Blacks, $31,052. Only 42% of white income.
Biggest racial gap in income. Black male workers make 59.7% of a white worker’s
earnings.
Third-lowest employment rate – 66% -- for Black males ages 25-54.
Third-highest incarceration rate
for Blacks.
*Source: Levine, Marc V., "The State of Black Milwaukee in National Perspective: Racial Inequality in the Nation’s 50 Largest Metropolitan Areas. In 65 Charts and Tables" (2020). Center for Economic Development Publications. 56.
Change the Future
You can create a positive impact without leaving your chair.
Donate to specific aspects of our programs or to all of our efforts as a whole.
Get Involved
JobsWork MKE is more than an organization. It’s a movement that relies on the help of many to create change. Explore opportunities where you can make a difference.
Employers
Community Partners
Anchor Institutions
Small Businesses
Volunteers
"I learned I could be something positive in other people’s lives just by being who I am. If you want to be part of something that’s great, that’s positive, that’s steady, that’s expanding, then this program is for you.”
— Marilyn, Program Participant