I've been a volunteer with the Urban Ecology Center for the last 15 years, during which it has grown from occupying a double-wide trailer in Riverside Park to now serving over 50 schools with ecology/science educational programs from centers in three different areas of Milwaukee, with over 70 full and part-time employees, and a wide array of programming for children, families and adults. Meanwhile, important but previously neglected or abandoned open spaces are being restored, planted, and turned into active community resources. Crime is down, schools are more successful, and neighborhoods are stronger and more alive. What's not to like?
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I've watched, and been a part of the Center's growth -- from a Friends of the Park group, to providing environmental education field trips to classes from neighborhood schools, to offering a broad science/environmental education curriculum out of a double-wide trailer, to becoming a full-fledged nature center/urban environmental education center/community center in a wonderfully green, comfortable, and inviting 20,000 sq ft building, and to serving schools and neighborhoods in another area of Milwaukee from a branch Center in another large park. The Center's collaborations and partnerships with other organizations -- community groups, environmental organizations, educational institutions, artists and performers, gardeners and urban farmers, etc -- are among its great strengths. I've been a volunteer and board member of many nonprofit organizations, and UEC has been unique in being virtually free from ego struggles, turf battles, personal agendas, and the like. Even when hard work, or complex and difficult tasks need to be accomplished, volunteering at UEC has always been fun and satisfying. And, best of all, interesting, caring and friendly people are always part of the equation there!
The Urban Ecology has transformed a neighborhood and a natural area in the heart of the city and made it a safe and accessible place. I feel safe hiking and biking alone in an area I would never have considered venturing alone 20 years ago. I love to visit the UEC with my children to play, sled, snowshoe, hike, visit the animal room or just hang out. I also enjoy going there alone to concentrate on projects away from home and to fly my kite from the lookout tower. It is a good place to recharge! The UEC staff are warm and caring folks and can really engage children and adults alike in the wonders of nature and in the ways of living lightly on the planet.
I have been involved with the UEC for almost a year now, and I think the work they are doing to revitalize the communities surrounding their 2 (soon to be 3) locations is outstanding. And I feel like I would be hard pressed to find a more passionate and welcoming staff. I like that they offer so many ways to be involved in the work they do, education, citizen science, land stewardship, urban sustainability, community building, etc. There is a place for everyone at the UEC!
Review from Guidestar
The Urban Ecology Center is located in a Milwaukee Park, Riverside Park.
This park was not being kept up and was not used by many people.
The UEC changed that. The park is now a vibrant place.
Many children who have never had the opportunity to investigate the
outdoors are thrilled to come to UEC.
These kids learn about trees,plants,birds,insects,wildlife and how to
care for all these. They love it! The Urban Ecology Center is a good
thing for the neighborhhood too. I know, because I grew up here, and this was MY park.
Review from Guidestar
The Urban Ecology Center (UEC) is a most efficient educator of Milwaukee's youth. Educating youth on the environment may be the the UEC's stated major mission. However, I believe that the UEC is even more valuable in helping youth of all socio-economic backgrounds develop reasoning skills, develop values necessary for maintaining society, and gain the ability to work with others. The UEC facilitates value exchange between generations.
In an age of working parents and shrinking school budgets, I believe that the UEC is the place to invest in our future.
Review from Guidestar
They are an amazing group of energized people who have excellent knowledge and are really helping to revitalize once loved parks that have fallen by the wayside. I loved learning about and foraging for food in the woods. I have also eaten a good many great potlucks there.
Twenty years ago I lived near Riverside Park and I was among the few who ventured into it. The park was poorly maintained and considered dangerous. I have watched the Urban Ecology Center grow and the Park become inviting and popular. I have worked with UEC staff when writing my book about the need for natural areas in cities to help connect people with nature and develop an environmental ethic. They do a remarkable job and I consider the UEC one of the best things happening in Milwaukee, a model for environmental education that should be emulated in every city.
The UEC brings together so many different elements for me it is difficult to describe its impact on the Greater Milwaukee community. Truly a neighborhood based organization that has primary mission of bringing inner city kids to nature, the UEC is a model for cities everywhere that want citizens to get out and appreciate the out of doors. Sustainability and enjoyment of the world around us in an urban setting has blossomed into a huge, multi-faceted set of programs serving all parts of the community from bird watching to snowshoe
The Urban Ecology Center is a fantastic Organization that has a huge impact on the Milwaukee environment and community. The Center's focus on environmental education for students is sure to have a tremendous affect on Milwaukee's environmental future. Urban students who would otherwise never get a chance to learn about the beauty of nature receive an invaluable experience and it is evident that they will never forget their visit to the Center. The Riverside Park location is truly a gem that everyone in the community must see!
Review from Guidestar