These Milwaukee residents are leading their community's transformation

The neighborhood of Lindsay Heights, just northwest of downtown Milwaukee, has been a center of African American history and culture since as far back as the Underground Railroad. In recent decades, underinvestment, job losses and the expansion of the interstate have taken their toll on the community. Those changes led to poor air quality, limited options for fresh food, and homes that fell into disuse.

The neighbors who call Lindsay Heights home formed Walnut Way, a resident-led non-profit that's creating a stronger, healthier community through environmental stewardship and economic development. By partnering with local mission-driven organizations, including air quality monitoring non-profit MKE FreshAir Collective, Walnut Way is transforming the neighborhood.

Because of diligent, resident-led work, more than 100 homes in Lindsay Heights have been restored or rebuilt, community gardens are producing fresh fruits and vegetables, and air quality monitors are helping residents stay informed about air pollution and advocate for action. Walnut Way’s comprehensive, community-led approach to tackling long-term challenges serves as a model for communities that want their neighborhoods to thrive, today and for generations to come.