CREAM CITY

OUR WORK

We believe Milwaukee can be the thought leader in blue-green job creation.

We believe our youth are not just our future, they are our NOW.

Because of this, we believe in dedicating our work to creating equitable green career pipelines.

 

Despite consensus from the "green community" that the advancement of our work is dependant on having a diverse representation of voices present, the environmental industry remains racially homogenous. While we have made great progress in terms of gender diversity, we have yet to move the needle on equity and inclusion of people of color.

 

For over a decade, through partnerships with local and national organizations, we have helped engage thousands of Milwaukee youth and young adults in hands-on service to the land.
 

From public green space revitalization to privately contracted invasive species removal, watershed management, green infrastructure and trail work: We are making a difference on the land and in lives. Whether you need us to identify youth stewards for your project or develop your existing group into environmental leaders, our success is credited to strong community partnerships and a deep understanding of racial equity and youth development pedagogy.

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We believe that because the problem is not one dimensional, the solution must be multifaceted.  We work with fellow environmental and community based organizations to increase their capacity to understand and navigate conversations around diversity, cultivate inclusive work cultures and identify strategies that promote financial stability, cultural relevance and sustainability of their organizations 

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HOW WE WORK

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Cream City Conservation is a two-prong social enterprise.

 

First, Cream City Conservation & Consulting works with environmental and community service organizations to address internal cultures and practices that contribute to workforce homogeneity. Through intensive exploratory sessions, interactive staff education and equity audits, we help our partners leverage their unique strengths to cultivate inclusive environments, develop intentional green career pipelines and harness the most effective team.

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Second, Cream City Conservation Corps program trains and employs young adults 15-25 whose social identities are traditionally underrepresented in the environmental industry. The model is a closed loop system between our Consulting firm and our Corps program.  Together, we cultivate the next generation of environmental change agents while strengthening environmental and community-based organizations to attract, develop and retain diverse pools of talent.  The Corps program is supported by community partnerships and profits from the Consulting firm.