Community Engagement

CUIR supports selected community initiatives by providing research, facilitation and technical assistance.

At times CUIR is a partner "at the table" in the early phases of community projects, helping to bring them into focus. Several examples are highlighted below.

Airport Area Economic Development Task Force

CUIR led and facilitated a planning effort to nurture economic growth and revitalization in the communities adjacent to the General Mitchell International Airport. The planning process led to the creation in 2010 of a nonprofit organization, the Milwaukee Gateway Aerotropolis Corporation (MGAC), a new type of urban development reflecting the interaction of airport-centered commerce, real estate development and multi-modal transportation.

Zilber Neighborhood Initiative

CUIR provided support to the Zilber Neighborhood Initiative - Quality of Life Planning in Clarke Square and Lindsay Heights neighborhoods by engaging individuals in identifying community assets and needs, including those who are not typically involved in the planning process. This six-month planning process resulted in the development of a road map with catalytic projects. Today both neighborhoods are implementing the plan to strengthen the community's infrastructure.

UWM and United Community Center

Patricia Najera serves as an embedded research and evaluation coordinator at the United Community Center (UCC), identifying opportunities for faculty, staff and students at UWM who wish to partner with UCC on projects related to research, instruction, service learning and clinical practice. This unique partnership serves as a model for university-community engagement and has helped to generate funding in the areas of health and human services, geriatrics, education, youth development and cultural arts.