Fellowship Open Campaign Cabinet Communication Guide

FELLOWSHIP OPEN MESSAGING GUIDE

2025 CAMPAIGN CABINET

THANK YOU

Over the last decade, I’ve had the honor of watching young men don their graduation regalia and turn tassels at high school graduations across our city.

We’ve celebrated milestones at schools like Golda Meir, Tech, Riverside, King, Reagan, Homestead, Nicolet, Madison East, and many more. And we don't stop there: we’ve witnessed their steps through institutions as they matriculated and mastered their crafts at the grand halls of Princeton, Michigan, Morehouse, UW Madison, and more. And with their journeys catapulting, succeeding in leadership roles at the likes of Google, Johnson Controls, Milwaukee Bucks, Wayco Group, and Milwaukee County. A turn of the tassel translated into a track record of excellence While these moments are always filled with excitement for the students, their parents, family, and my team, we understand that turning the tassel is just the beginning—turning the page into a new chapter filled with choices, opportunities, and discovery.

I appreciate you not only for offering your time and access to walk alongside me and my team but also for believing in a mission that is beyond us. Together, we are supporting the talent of our community as they progress from high school auditoriums to academic arenas and to boardrooms and national platforms of achievement. The need continues to grow, but so do our determinations, and we are honored to have you serve as an ambassador with us.

As these young leaders continue to return to our community, contributing their talents to companies, culture, and a growing economy in our region, we can celebrate that we did this together.

On behalf of those young men, I thank you for helping us open even more doors for the next generation of excellence.

John Daniels III

OUR CONNECTIONS

ACTIVATING PARTNERS 40

Employers

30

Mentors

110

Honorary Chairs

Provide internship and full time placements Lunch & Learn Hosts; Professional Development Trainers Have foundation and philanthropic relationships Can speak to the career readiness of talent and workforce needs

Navigate decision-making and coaching for youth Secure new funding Can speak to growth in participants

Ambassadors for the work Representation of multiple industries and career paths Role models for youth Have foundation and philanthropic relationships

30

Advisory Commitee Strategic insights to continuously improve our model Demonstrable value in business case Influence through peer advocacy Can speak to the growth of the program

MISSION AND VISION OUR MISSION Empowering passionate people to pursue their purpose.

The Fellowship Open’s principal mission is to support organizations that make a meaningful and demonstrable difference in the lives of low income youth. We invest in programming for the creation of a strong pipeline of young, African American college graduates ready to return to impact communities to excel in their careers, build wealth, and become engaged leaders capable of moving our region’s communities into a new era of greater health, vitality, and prosperity.

OUR VISION Create a self-sustaining community where innovation is the norm.

MASTER NARRATIVE Fellowship Open: Advancing Opportunity, Empowering Futures Fellowship Open is a dynamic organization that fosters economic empowerment, professional development, and community engagement for African American students and young professionals. Guided by a mission to uplift marginalized populations, we serve as a bridge to opportunity—breaking barriers, opening doors, and building futures.

At the heart of our work is a commitment to developing talent. We focus on cultivating career pathways, expanding access to mentorship, and nurturing leadership that drives lasting impact in underserved communities. Fellowship Open is designed for highpotential Black students and emerging professionals who seek not only to succeed in their own careers but to create ripple effects of empowerment in the communities from which they come.

Who We Serve Fellowship Open is built for African American students and young professionals navigating the early stages of their careers. Our programming is tailored to those with high potential and strong ambition who are looking for a supportive network, access to opportunities, and a platform to give back.

What We Do Career Pipeline Development We partner with top-tier companies across diverse industries to actively create and expand internship and full-time employment opportunities. By strengthening relationships with employers, we aim to diversify the workforce and promote economic mobility for those historically left behind.

Mentorship & Leadership Growth Our enhanced mentorship model connects students with engaged alumni and seasoned professionals who provide guidance, encouragement, and industry insights. We also offer advanced leadership training and professional development programs that prepare young professionals for long-term career success.

Community Expansion & Engagement To deepen our community impact, we establish advisory boards enabling localized support and programming. We also form strategic partnerships with universities, corporations, and civic organizations to broaden our reach and reinforce our mission.

Sustainable Program Growth Our long-term vision is supported by financial resilience and operational excellence. We are diversifying funding streams and investing in modern technology and infrastructure to ensure our programs remain accessible, effective, and scalable.

Measuring Impact Success at Fellowship Open is measured not just by placements or participation numbers but by the long-term outcomes of our work. We track employment and promotion rates, mentorship engagement levels, and community reinvestment efforts. By combining data-driven evaluation with real-world stories of transformation, we ensure our initiatives

ELEVATOR PITCH Fellowship Open: Advancing Opportunity, Empowering Futures Fellowship Open is a dynamic organization dedicated to fostering economic empowerment, professional development, and community engagement for African American students and young professionals.

Guided by a mission to uplift marginalized populations, we serve as a bridge to opportunity—breaking barriers, opening doors, and building futures.

At the heart of our work is a commitment to developing talent. We focus on cultivating career pathways, expanding access to mentorship, and nurturing leadership that drives lasting impact in underserved communities. Fellowship Open is designed for high-potential Black students and emerging professionals who seek not only to succeed in their own careers but to create ripple effects of empowerment in the communities from which they come.

OUR APPROACH

THE WICKED PROBLEM Milwaukee faces a persistent challenge in retaining and elevating its young talent, particularly among African American youth, due to deeply intertwined barriers across education, workforce readiness, and economic access.

Despite the city’s potential for growth, a lack of equitable access to quality education, limited exposure to effective job training and career readiness, insufficient financial literacy, and fragmented labor market opportunities continue to stall upward mobility.

These factors do not exist in isolation—they compound across generations, disproportionately impacting communities of color. Young people often graduate without the academic foundation or real-world skills needed to succeed in today’s economy. Even when motivated and capable, many are disconnected from pathways to sustainable careers, lack financial tools to build wealth, and face systemic exclusion from growing industries.

This cycle not only undermines individual potential but also weakens Milwaukee’s broader economic vitality.

Addressing this wicked problem demands coordinated, cross-sector solutions that bridge education and employment, center community voices, and reimagine systems to support long-term, inclusive prosperity.

OUR RESEARCH There is substantial research and data that highlights the opportunity gap MKE Fellows is addressing in Milwaukee. Here are some key findings: 1. Racial and Economic Disparities in Milwaukee Black residents in Milwaukee face some of the worst economic disparities in the U.S. Milwaukee is often ranked among the most segregated cities in the country (Brookings Institution).

A 2020 UW-Milwaukee study found that Milwaukee has one of the largest racial wealth gaps in the U.S. 2. Education and Workforce Disparities College graduation rates for Black students are significantly lower than for White students in Wisconsin.

A 2021 report by the Wisconsin Policy Forum showed that the college graduation rate for Black students in the state is among the lowest nationwide.

Black professionals are underrepresented in high-paying industries like finance, technology, and healthcare in Milwaukee.

3. Talent Flight & Retention Issues Young Black professionals leave Milwaukee at high rates due to limited opportunities: A 2022 study by the African American Leadership Alliance Milwaukee (AALAM) found that many Black professionals do not see a clear career pathway in the city.

The Milwaukee Equity Index shows that retaining Black talent is a major challenge for economic growth.

4. Income and Employment Disparities Unemployment rates for Black Milwaukeeans are significantly higher than for White residents.

A 2022 Federal Reserve report found that Milwaukee's Black unemployment rate was among the highest in the country.

The median income for Black households is far lower than White households: The median Black household income in Milwaukee ($30,000) is about half that of White households ($60,000) (U.S. Census Bureau, 2020).

Conclusion This data confirms that Milwaukee struggles with deep racial and economic disparities, especially in education, workforce inclusion, and Black talent retention. MKE Fellows is directly addressing these issues by providing young Black men with college support, career opportunities, and professional networks, aiming to reverse these trends and create long-term economic mobility.

OUR INNOVATIVE SOLUTION MKE Fellows is addressing this opportunity gap through a comprehensive support system that includes: 1. Education and Scholarship Support Providing financial assistance and scholarships to help young Black men attend and complete college.

Partnering with universities to offer resources and mentorship.

2. Internships and Career Placement Connecting students with paid internships at leading companies.

Helping fellows secure full-time jobs in high-growth industries after graduation.

3. Mentorship and Professional Networking Pairing fellows with business leaders, entrepreneurs, and professionals for guidance.

Hosting networking events where fellows can build relationships with top employers.

4. Leadership and Personal Development Organizing workshops on professional skills, financial literacy, and leadership training.

Encouraging civic engagement and community service to foster responsibility and leadership.

5. Retention of Talent in Milwaukee Working with local businesses and organizations to create career pathways that encourage young Black professionals to stay and thrive in Milwaukee.

Showcasing the city's opportunities to fellows so they see Milwaukee as a place to build their future.

By providing these key resources, MKE Fellows is breaking down systemic barriers and ensuring young Black men in Milwaukee have the support they need to succeed academically, professionally, and personally.

OUR ENGINE FOR ECONOMIC MOBILITY

OUR ENGINE MODEL KEY TALKING POINTS The MKE Fellows THRIVE Model is an economic empowerment framework designed to enhance economic mobility and build thriving communities through four key pillars. Each pillar includes solutions, partners, and key performance indicators (KPIs) to track success.

1. Access to Quality Education Solutions: Scholarships, college tours Partners: Thrivent, universities KPIs: Scholarships awarded, high-level degrees attained, college graduation rates, new schools established 2. Job Training Readiness Solutions: Professional development (PD) sessions, mentorship, global excursions Partners: Employers, mentors KPIs: Mentor evaluations, number of alumni mentoring MKE Fellows 3. Financial Literacy Solutions: Investment clubs, training sessions, budget tools Partners: Financial institutions KPIs: Number of financial advisors trained 4. Labor Market Opportunities Solutions: Internship placement, career fairs Partners: Employers, GMC/MMAC KPIs: Number of alumni employed in Wisconsin, number of employers hiring MKE Fellows, number of internships, and internship-to-job conversions This model provides a structured approach to economic empowerment by ensuring access to education, job training, financial knowledge, and career opportunities.

OUR MODEL IN ACTION

PROGRAM TALKING POINTS OUR PROGRAM FEATURE | KEY TALKING POINTS 1. Our participants receive over 500 hours of curriculum across 12 holistic, evidence-informed services; 2. Competency model model focuses on three primary areas: Behavioral Health & Wellness, Education & Employment, and Community & Life Skills.

3. Participation begins u… and continues for approx .. However, graduates are encouraged to return as alum mentrs 4. As part of our whole person approach, we offer participants the opportunity to focus on their health and wellbeing before entering the workforce, 5. We provide a mentor circle throughout the entire participant journey including individualized guidance from resources like a licensed therapist, case manager, community support specialist, career coach, and peer support specialist.

6. When participants are ready to transition into the workforce, we are thoughtful about finding workplace environments that are inclusive, provide a welcoming assimilation process, and allow for onsite career coaching.

7. Our curriculum offers workplace simulations in market-stable industries like retail,warehouse/logistics, and food service - ensuring that participants who successfully complete the simulation are offered parttime to full-time employment with a hiring partner.

BUILDING COMMUNITY Early Engagement: We lead Learning Circles in partner high schools to prepare students academically, socially, and emotionally for college— establishing trust and mentorship early on.

Emotional Support: We offer free grief counseling for students without access to professional services, helping them navigate personal loss without falling behind.

24/7 Mentorship: Our staff are available around the clock, providing students with constant access to guidance, support, and someone who truly listens.

Wellness Check-Ins: We conduct personalized check-ins virtually and in person each semester to track student well-being and academic progress.

Celebrating Success: Whether local or out-of-state, we attend graduations to celebrate milestones and remind students they’re part of a larger community that believes in them.

Monthly Connection: Fellows attend three monthly events focused on learning, bonding, and fun, which keep them connected, supported, and engaged.

Together, these touchpoints create more than a program—they build a lifelong community of care and empowerment for young Black men.

KEY OUTCOMES

Since 2001, the Fellowship Open model has empowered over 10,000 individuals through 6 signature programs in the Greater MKE region and aims to further expand its footprint.

THE VOICE OF OUR FELLOWS BRENDAN STEVENSON Marquette Class of 2022 Mechanical Engineering

The MKE Fellows program serves as an incubator for promising young men in the Milwaukee community, providing them with knowledge and unique opportunities to grow academically, socially, and professionally. The program leverages its network to make goals, dreams, and aspirations achievable, positioning Fellows for success. As a MKE Fellows alum, I'm grateful for all the support and teachings over the years!

The Fellows program has helped to lift my vibrations, it has kept my spirits positive in every situation and always made me feel like a family member.

BRYSON CHERRY Grambling University Class of 2025

Brandon Ramey MKE Fellows Alumni and Director, Quad MKE

The MKE Fellows Program has been a beacon of hope and opportunity in my life. It has empowered me to dream bigger, work harder, and believe in the power of community. Through this program, I've learned that success is not just about individual achievement, but about lifting each other up and creating a brighter future for all. Milwaukee, let's continue to strive for excellence and make our city a place where every young person can thrive.

THE VOICE OF OUR PARTNERS Some organizations will take a student and create moments, the Milwaukee Fellows will take a student and create a Monument.

MICHAEL HYLER Engagement Manager

The Milwaukee Fellows program is more than just a mentorship, they are a family that provides a powerful network of support, leadership, and opportunity. It empowers young Black men to thrive academically, grow personally, and return to Milwaukee ready to lead and uplift their communities. The impact is real, lasting, and transformative, as I have witnessed by the success of my students who participated. The Fellows are legit and there isn't anything that they won't do to help these young men succeed.

SARAH DUBEY Raegan High School Guidance Counselor

Interaction and engagement lies at the heart of the success of their mission The MKE Fellows drives accountability through their ‘bright future oath’.

Harvard Business School FIELD Immersion Team

WHY WE'RE DIFFERENT | KEY TALKING POINTS EVIDENCE DRIVEN: Our program was designed and benchmarked against tools from NACE and Harvard Business School INCLUSIVE CURRICULUM: Our “holistic” approach is designed to empower all students to grow for a stable future. Culturally relevant, globally minded NATIONAL ACADEMIC PATHWAYS: Students are launched to some of the most prestigious universities across the country to gain broad exposure and insights to bring back to MKE Greater region ALL SERVICES UNDER ONE ROOF: Our "comprehensive" approach provides services under one program umbrella by an integrated team FINANCIAL CAPACITY VS SUPPORT: Our participants receive investment seeds, financial literacy tools, and coaching to build capability ACCESS TO EMPLOYMENT: Our participants are offered exposure and connections to receive part-time to full-time, stable employment with a hiring partner.

ALUMNI FOR LIFE: Our curriculum begins in high school and continues through college and beyond, and Fellows stay on as alum mentors

REAL COSTS Wisconsin’s black imprisonment rate of 2,104 per 100,000 residents was the highest in the country.

The Wisconsin Department of Corrections said it costs about $30,000 per inmate every year to pay for housing, clothing, food and medical expenses.

Cost Per MKE Fellows Participant At Scale: $5,500 Average Starting Salary of MKE Fellow $62,000 The math speaks for itself on RETURN!

*2021 U.S. Bureau of Justice Statistics and U.S. Census Bureau

OUR ROI FOR LOCAL COMMUNITIES States will spend an estimated $8 billion on reincarceration costs for individuals who exited prison in 2022.13 By holistically supporting individuals, we contribute to decreased costs to the justice and corrections systems, decreased reliance on government benefits and support, and increased revenue for local and state communities.

Investment in mental health and substance use disorder programs can help reduce crime and incarceration rates simultaneously, equaling a total return of $1.47 to $5.27 per taxpayer dollar spent on treatment.

We have had great success partnering with local employment partners - creating a mutually beneficial relationship for businesses needing to fill critical hires and individuals seeking stable employment.

ALUMNI VOICE Nathanael Washington’s journey with the MKE Fellows Program began at eighteen after winning the Terrence Thomas Scholarship. Passionate about sports from a young age, he played multiple sports in school and aimed to work in pro sports. His involvement in leadership roles and extracurricular activities showcased his drive to excel and become independent. The Fellows program helped Washington develop essential skills and build a strong network.

Daniels recognized Washington’s potential, mentoring him closely and placing him in challenging roles. Washington, now equipped with significant business insights, left the program to pursue new opportunities with the Green Bay Packers.

PROGRAM EFFECTIVENESS & IMPACT Fellowship Open/MKE Fellows is one of few comprehensive programs within the U.S. that has seen a significant increase in eduction and professional attainment along wih character development for long term effect Fellowship Open's model is uniquely research-based and scalable, and "participation in Fellowship Open programming helps to reduce the likelihood of college drop outs and increase the likelihood of employment.

The MKE Fellows program is a comprehensive initiative aimed at addressing educational and employment disparities among African American male youth in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Established in 2012, its mission is to support academically talented African American young men to graduate from college prepared for career success, thereby fostering a healthier and more economically prosperous African American community in Wisconsin. ​MKE Fellows+1MKE Fellows+1 Program Components: Scholarships: MKE Fellows provides merit-based book scholarships to offset the costs of educational materials, as well as emergency funds to support students in extreme circumstances. ​MKE Fellows Mentorship: Each participant is paired with a mentor, selected based on the student's career aspirations or life experiences, to offer guidance and support throughout their academic and professional journey. ​Milwaukee Community Journal Professional Development: The program offers experiential summer workshops where fellows learn about networking, interviewing, prioritizing, conflict management, and other essential career skills. ​MKE Fellows Civic Engagement: Fellows engage in "Lunch and Learn" events hosted by corporate and civic organizations, as well as social events like the Fellowship Open and Summerfest, to build meaningful relationships and business networks. ​MKE Fellows Effectiveness and Impact: Several indicators suggest its positive impact:​ Program Growth: Since its inception, MKE Fellows has expanded significantly.

Initially focusing on students from Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), it now includes participants from institutions across the country, from Berkeley to Princeton, while maintaining strong partnerships with HBCUs. ​ Milwaukee Community Journal

Participant Engagement: Students can apply in their junior or senior year of high school, with 40-50 new fellows joining annually. At any given time, approximately 200 young men are engaged with MKE Fellows at various stages of their academic and professional development. ​Milwaukee Community Journal Networking Opportunities: The program facilitates connections between fellows and local business leaders, exposing students to a range of professional experiences that complement their academic studies and position them for viable post-graduation career opportunities in the Milwaukee area. ​gmconline.org+1MKE Fellows+1 By focusing on education, mentorship, professional development, and civic engagement, MKE Fellows aims to create a strong pipeline of young African American male college graduates ready to return to Wisconsin to excel in their careers, build wealth, and become engaged leaders. This holistic approach addresses the educational and employment disparities affecting African American youth in Milwaukee, contributing to the broader goal of community empowerment and economic prosperity.

FELLOWSHIP OPEN MESSAGING GUIDE

2025 CAMPAIGN CABINET