OUR VISION
MKE Fellows envisions a healthier and more economically prosperous community that is better positioned to support the fiscal growth of Wisconsin. The primary goal of MKE Fellows is the creation of a strong pipeline of young, African-American male college graduates ready to return to Wisconsin to excel in their careers, build wealth, and become engaged leaders. MKE Fellows seeks to develop groups of young men who are not only well-educated, but who provide servant leadership that will be emulated by others.
THE NEED
Young African-American men in Wisconsin face daunting challenges. Rates of unemployment, crime, and poverty are excessively high, while the graduation rate is well below national averages. Despite these grim statistics, there are many high-potential and resilient young African-American students performing above the achievement gap. Unfortunately, even after they complete high school, there are many barriers that keep them from graduating from college and launching successful careers. Too often these students lack the social networks, personal mentors, financial wherewithal, and access to pre-professional experiences that lead to career success.
OUR APPROACH
OUR CORE PROGRAM PILLARS
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JOB EXPERIENCES
OPPORTUNITIES
ENGAGEMENT
MENTORSHIP
Each Fellow is paired with a volunteer leader from the community who serves as a dedicated mentor providing career guidance and leadership advice. Fellows also have opportunities to meet successful professionals across a range of careers, and consult with dedicated program staff as they navigate through the program.
CIVIC ENGAGEMENT
MKE Fellows develop meaningful social relationships and business networks that will help students secure a job AND build a career. Fellows participate in “Lunch and Learn” events hosted by corporate and civic organizations as well as social events including the Fellowship Open, Summerfest, and more! Not only that, but our cohort mentality helps students connect with each other on a personal level providing peer-to-peer mentorship relationships that will benefit them as they continue along in their careers while retaining bridges to maintain the integrity of our talented city leaders.
