Community Shares of Wisconsin

06/03/2026

This month’s hero is Margaret Brauer, a board member and volunteer manager for Open Doors for Refugees, an organization that helps refugees make a home in the Madison area. Margaret coordinates transportation and winter wear donations, manages dozens of volunteers, responds to requests from case managers at partner organizations, and often personally drives clients to appointments or escorts them to the organization’s free winter wear store. She does all of this with grace and perseverance, even in these challenging times. Open Doors for Refugees would not be the effective organization that it is without Margaret’s incredible volunteerism and leadership.

Thank you, Margaret! 💚

Open Doors for Refugees is a volunteer-driven organization founded in 2016 and based in Madison, whose mission is to help refugees make a home in the Madison area. They work closely with partner organizations to provide furniture, winter clothing, transportation, language support, workforce development, childcare, and other support services to refugees and other immigrants in the Madison community.

The Backyard Hero Awards are sponsored by 105.5 Triple M, Isthmus, and Budget Signs Specialties.

05/30/2026

Community care comes in many forms. From workshops to celebrations and community gatherings, here's what some of our member nonprofits have planned for June. Show up, take action, and connect with people making a difference in the community. 💚

05/28/2026

As federal childcare stabilization funding nears its end, member nonprofit Wisconsin Early Childhood Association is sounding the alarm on what it could mean for providers, families, and communities across the state.

WECA’s latest report highlights the risk of childcare closures, staff cuts, and rising tuition costs without sustained public investment—and underscores just how critical continued support is for Wisconsin’s early childhood system.

WI childcare facing funding ‘crisis’ this summer, report shows May 26, 2026 The Wisconsin Early Childhood Association warns the state’s childcare industry will face widespread shutdowns and pared-back services without sustained government support. The group on Friday released a report analyzin...

05/26/2026

Fair Wisconsin is helping lead a statewide coalition calling for the return of gender-affirming care for transgender youth in Wisconsin, organizing a coalition of more than 60 organizations and businesses signing on in support. Among them include a number of our member nonprofits: ACLU of Wisconsin, Embolden WI, End Domestic Abuse Wisconsin, Freedom Inc, GSAFE, OutReach LGBTQ Community Center, Wisconsin Coalition Against Sexual Assault, and Wisconsin LGBTQ History Project.

We’re proud to see our members continuing to advocate for dignity, access to care, and support for trans youth and their families across Wisconsin. 💚

More than 60 advocacy organizations and businesses in Wisconsin are calling on the state's top children's hospitals to resume providing gender-affirming care for transgender youth.

05/22/2026

Join us in congratulating Anne Katz, Director of Create Wisconsin, on being recognized as a 2026 WAMI (Wisconsin Area Music Industry) Wall of Honor inductee as part of WAMI’s celebration of Women in Music.

For more than 30 years, Anne has been a driving force for arts, culture, and creativity across Wisconsin, advocating for stronger support systems, increased investment in the arts, and opportunities for musicians and creative communities in every corner of the state. Through her leadership at Create Wisconsin and initiatives like Make Music Wisconsin, Anne has helped elevate voices, connect communities, and strengthen Wisconsin’s creative economy in ways that will be felt for generations to come.

This recognition is a testament to the lasting impact of her work and the countless artists, organizations, and communities she has inspired along the way. Congratulations, Anne, and thank you for everything you do for Wisconsin’s arts and music communities. 💐

05/20/2026

What happens when transportation equity, sustainability, and community care come together? Our member nonprofit Bikes for Kids Wisconsin is about to show us.

On June 2, they’ll celebrate the launch of Meals on 2 Wheels — a nearly emission-free grocery delivery program using volunteer riders and e-cargo bikes to bring food directly to households facing mobility and transportation barriers.

Stop by their rollout event at 354 Coyier Lane in Madison from 10–10:45 a.m. to help send off the very first deliveries during . Food and bike tube donations welcome!

MADISON, Wis. — Bikes for Kids Wisconsin is launching a new program called "Meals on 2 Wheels" to deliver groceries by e-cargo bike to people facing transportation barriers in Madison.

05/14/2026

Behind every movement for change are people and organizations doing the work every day.

Community Shares of Wisconsin is proud to celebrate those advancing social and environmental justice across our community at the annual Community Change-Maker Awards at the East Side Club on Thursday, September 17.

Save the date—more details coming soon.

Image description: A green calendar highlights the Community Change-Maker Awards on Thursday, September 17, circled in red marker.

05/14/2026

From coding to engineering, summer is a chance to build skills that last far beyond the classroom. Member nonprofit Maydm's Summer Programs are now open for students in grades 6–12, offering hands-on experiences in coding, engineering, design, and more.

Each program is designed to help girls and youth of color gain the skills, confidence, and connections to explore future careers in STEM—all while having fun and creating alongside peers.

Every program offers something a little different, so families can explore the options and find the best fit for their student. Registration is now open at https://www.maydm.org/current-catalog

05/11/2026

A lot can happen in a week. Here's a look at the latest news and accomplishments from our member nonprofits working toward a more sustainable and equitable future. 🗞️

05/06/2026

Congrats to ABC for Health, Inc. COO and former Community Shares of Wisconsin Board President Brynne McBride on earning this honor. 👏

🏆 Congratulations to Brynne McBride, recipient of the Dan Tuchscherer Outstanding Public Interest Law Attorney Award

Presented by the State Bar of Wisconsin’s Public Interest Law Section, this award recognizes a lawyer who demonstrates a lifetime commitment to public interest work, volunteerism, and service to the community.

McBride, chief operating officer of ABC for Health in Madison, has dedicated more than two decades to advancing the rights of children and families navigating complex health coverage systems. Through her leadership, she oversees statewide advocacy and legal services that make a direct impact on vulnerable populations.

Beyond her professional role, McBride has launched innovative programs, mentored future advocates, and contributed extensively to community efforts. Her work not only improves individual lives but also drives meaningful policy change across Wisconsin.

Her leadership reflects a deep and sustained commitment to justice, systemic reform, and community empowerment.

👏 Congratulations, Brynne, on this well-deserved honor.