What is your story? How did you end up in Milwaukee?

Born and raised in Wisconsin, I was convinced I wanted to live on the East Coast, but the Midwest culture has kept me here. I went to school at University of Wisconsin-Madison (Go Badgers!) and majored in Economics with a Math Emphasis. I moved to downtown Milwaukee in 2017 and fell in love with the Third Ward and Walker's Point area. I have a position with a great company and a network of awesome young adults that has kept me here since.

What keeps you in Milwaukee/What do you like best about Milwaukee?

There are so many great things about Milwaukee. I love the diversity of the city, which brings food and experiences of all different cultures. The city feels large because of the vast amounts of activities, food, and culture, but you can walk or bike anywhere in the city, including the beautiful Lake Michigan. I also love watching the Walker's Point area turn from old factory buildings into a growing city. It's exciting to be part of the development phase.  

Favorite spot in the city?

The view of the horizon from Lake Michigan. I am an avid sailor and there's nothing better than watching the sunset over the city from offshore on a warm summer night.

Milwaukee festival you are eager to attend each year?

Bastille Days was the first festival I ever attended in Milwaukee and I look forward to it every year. I love that instead of it being in a festival park, it's a pop-up street fair.

What drew you to Echelon?

I attended a Dinner in the Alley event as a guest and was immediately overwhelmed by the energy an passion the group had towards their mission. Between the great work that Echelon does in helping to support The Salvation Army and the community they have built, I knew it was a group I wanted to become a part of. 

Share with us a memorable experience you have had thus far with the organization.

I will never forget the first year I did Meaningful Makeover. Not only did we learn more about what the shelter does to support individuals through the rehabilitation program, but I had the incredible opportunity to sit down at a table with the residents over lunch and listen to their stories. I knew that day, I had joined an organization which truly helps people not only by putting a roof over their head, but by equipping them with the resources and support they need to regain stability. 

What struggles do you see our city dealing with? What can our generation do to help?

Milwaukee has one of the highest nonprofits-per-capita ratios in Wisconsin. Despite this large number, they are unable to work together to serve everyone in need. Our generation can utilize technology and innovation to unite these organizations which share a common cause, instead of watching them struggle independently for available funding.