Foundation has given more than $1.4 billion in grants since 1985
Milwaukee, WI – The Lynde and Harry Bradley Foundation announced today that it gave $13 million in grants to dozens of organizations throughout Milwaukee and Wisconsin in 2025. The Foundation has supported local organizations that strengthen families and communities, cultivate arts and culture, and enhance urban education for the past 40 years.
“One of Milwaukee’s greatest strengths is its people, who are genuine, hard-working and invest in the community,” said Rick Graber, president and CEO of The Bradley Foundation. “The namesakes of the foundation cared about the people of Milwaukee for those reasons and were committed to supporting the enduring institutions of civil society. It is our mission to carry out their legacy, and in doing so, we are proud to support organizations that advance a spirit of service that makes our city stronger, more resilient and hopeful.”
Since its establishment in 1985, the Foundation has made more than 16,000 grants totaling over$1.4 billionto thousands of organizations. Of that, over $463 million has gone to groups within Wisconsin.
“Year after year, we see the remarkable impact that small but mighty local organizations have on individuals,” Graber continued. “Whether it’s enriching lives through arts and culture, preparing children for success through quality educational options, helping individuals overcome addiction, or honoring those who served, our grantees embody the very best of civil society.”
The following are just a few of the outstanding organizations in the Milwaukee area that received a Bradley Foundation grant in 2025:
Villa Terrace Museum and Gardens is a historic home overlooking Lake Michigan that fosters connection through art, culture, and its renowned Renaissance Garden. Once the home of a prominent Milwaukee family, it is now a decorative arts museum that draws thousands each year to experience its Italianate architecture, lush greenery, and rotating exhibitions. In addition to preserving Milwaukee’s artistic and architectural history, Villa Terrace hosts workshops, lectures, performances, and hands-on programming that give people of all ages opportunities to engage with the arts and with the city’s cultural history. The Foundation’s grant supports the museum’s capital campaign for improvements that will enable visitors to enjoy the home for years to come.
Concord Chamber Orchestra enriches the Milwaukee area by offering affordable, accessible, and high-quality musical performances. Comprised of dedicated volunteer musicians, the orchestra presents a diverse repertoire—from classical masterworks to contemporary compositions—while building bridges between audiences and the arts. Concord also works with local schools and community organizations to inspire young musicians and foster a lifelong appreciation for music. Currently celebrating its 50th anniversary season, the orchestra helps keep Milwaukee’s cultural life vibrant and accessible.
Christ–St. Peter Lutheran School serves students at three campuses on Milwaukee’s south side by providing a Christ-centered education that promotes academic achievement, forms strong character, and nurtures spiritual growth in its students from early childhood through eighth grade. Christ–St. Peter works closely with families to help students build confidence, strengthen foundational skills, and develop a sense of purpose grounded in faith. Its dedicated teachers and staff work to prepare each student for success in high school and beyond.
Carmen Schools of Science and Technology is a network of Milwaukee charter schools dedicated to preparing middle and high school students—many of whom are the first in their families to pursue college—to be critical thinkers and self-directed learners. With an emphasis on STEM education and a culture of high expectations, Carmen helps students develop the academic skills, discipline, and leadership traits needed to excel at higher education and throughout life. The Foundation’s grant supports Carmen’s capital campaign to build a high school that will unite its south and southeast campuses and is set to open in the fall of 2026.
Milwaukee County War Memorial Center honors the sacrifices of Wisconsin’s veterans and preserves the legacy of those who served. Located on Milwaukee’s lakefront, the center maintains memorials, hosts educational exhibits, and provides space for community events that recognize service members from every branch of the Armed Forces. Through ceremonies, veteran support programs, historical displays, and collaborations with local schools, the Center helps ensure that future generations understand the cost of freedom and the importance of civic responsibility.
La Familia de Arte strengthens families and neighborhoods by using art as a catalyst for creativity, connection, and community pride. Based on Milwaukee’s south side, the organization provides culturally rooted programming—including painting, music, dance, and public art projects—that reflects the city’s rich cultural heritage. By engaging youth and families in collaborative artistic expression, La Familia de Arte creates opportunities for mentorship, skill building, cultural celebration, and community involvement.
Great Lakes Adult & Teen Challenge offers a long-term, faith-based residential program for men and women seeking freedom from addiction and a path toward stability and purpose. Through counseling, faith formation, life-skills training, and a structured community environment, participants work to rebuild their lives and develop healthy, sustainable habits. Graduates leave with strengthened relationships, practical skills, and confidence to build a life of meaning. The Foundation’s grant supports the organization’s capital campaign to expand its addiction recovery programs for women.
