About YWCA Southeast Wisconsin

Jackie Carter, Director, Economic Empowerment Programs

JCarter@ywcasew.org

Jackie Carter has been promoted to Director of Economic Empowerment Programs at YWCA Southeast Wisconsin. Most recently serving as Manager of Personal Financial Management Programs, Jackie’s 4-year tenure at YWCA Southeast Wisconsin has included growing its acclaimed Personal Financial Management education and credit coaching program. In her new role, she will further advance financial literacy education into YWCA Southeast Wisconsin’s adult education and workforce readiness programs.

YWCA Southeast Wisconsin (SEW) is part of a national network on a mission to eliminate racism and empower women. At YWCA SEW we stand up for social and racial justice, help families, and strengthen communities. We have been serving women and families for generations and, every day, challenge our community to commit itself to peace, justice, freedom and dignity for all of our neighbors.

Today, YWCA SEW’s mission comes to life through efficient, effective programs and services that touch the lives of thousands, as well as through community building and advocacy work necessary to building a more racially just and economically vibrant tomorrow. This combination of programming and advocacy has three focus areas: racial justice, economic empowerment and the health/safety of women and their families.

Credit Consultations

Why start a Neighborhood Improvement District

The idea of a Neighborhood Improvement District (NID) can provide equity and ownership to communities that have been historically underserved or subject to displacement.

By creating NIDs, the community can be provided with necessary resources that may otherwise not be available in their area. These resources could include things such as infrastructure improvements, funding for local businesses or initiatives, and economic development programs. In addition, NIDs can provide an opportunity for citizens to have a say in the decisions being made in their neighborhood that may otherwise be out of their control.

This allows for greater equity in decision making and helps ensure a more inclusive process. As such, this is an effective way to address long-term displacement issues and ensure that the community is empowered to take ownership of its future.

These improvements can improve quality of life and create a more sustainable, equitable neighborhood. A NID can be a powerful tool in creating lasting change for communities in need.

When did the Lindsay Heights NID become established?

The Milwaukee Common Council established the Lindsay Heights Neighborhood Improvement District on November 4, 2022.

This district was created to support economic development and revitalization in the Lindsay Heights area, including investments in infrastructure, housing, job creation, and public safety.

The district includes 3,067 parcels of land within a three-square-mile radius that are owned by Milwaukee County, Milwaukee Public Schools, and the City of Milwaukee.

How is the Lindsay Heights NID funded?

The Lindsay Heights Neighborhood Improvement District (NID) is funded through assessment revenue and grant funding.

All assessment revenue received goes towards the NID projects as outlined in the approved budget. In addition to assessment revenue, grants are sought to provide additional funding for specific initiatives or events.

The NID has been successful in receiving grants from various local organizations and foundations. Fundraising efforts are also conducted to raise money for additional projects or events.

All funds received through assessment revenue and grants are used exclusively for the benefit of Lindsay Heights residents.

How are Lindsay Heights Board members nominated?

Lindsay Heights Board members are nominated with 25 signatures from the residents.

To be eligible for nomination, 5 of those 25 must be from your own block. All 25 signatures must come from people aged 18 and over who currently reside in the Lindsay Heights neighborhood.

Once 25 valid signatures have been collected, the individual can be officially nominated as a board member.

How are Lindsay Heights Board members elected.

Lindsay Heights residents elect 9 Board members to the Lindsay Heights Neighborhood Improvement District Board of Directors.

These seats are filled in alternating three-year terms by residents living in each of four quadrants that make up the neighborhood.

Each quadrant is represented by 2 board members, which makes it easy for residents to identify their representatives and give them direct feedback at any time.