MPC: Milwaukee's Philanthropic Community

Ellenbecker Investment Group
  • 5.0 (2)
  • Non-Profit
  • Updated Weekly

MPC: Milwaukee's Philanthropic Community is a podcast by Ellenbecker Investment Group that celebrates philanthropy and community impact in Wisconsin. Hosted by Jill Economou, Director of Community Relations, MPC highlights Milwaukee-area nonprofit organizations, inspiring stories of giving, and practical ways listeners can make a difference. Each Thursday, new episodes feature leaders of local nonprofits, changemakers, and individuals passionate about creating positive impact. Learn how to give back, discover the joy of philanthropy, and explore opportunities to support causes that matter in Milwaukee and beyond. Join us to uncover the value of giving, connect with the Milwaukee philanthropic community, and find your own path to making a difference.

  1. 6d ago

    Community Smiles Dental

    A healthy smile does more than improve appearance. It builds confidence, supports overall health, and opens doors to opportunities that many of us take for granted. This week on MPC, host Jill Economou is joined by Scott Marshall, CEO of Community Smiles Dental, a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving access to quality oral healthcare for underserved families and individuals throughout southeastern Wisconsin. Scott shares how Community Smiles Dental is helping fill a critical gap in access to dental care across southeastern Wisconsin. From preventive visits and restorative treatments to specialized care for patients with unique healthcare needs, the organization ensures that every patient has access to a dental home where they are treated with compassion, dignity, and expertise. He also discusses the challenges of low Medicaid reimbursement rates, the importance of advocacy, and exciting plans to expand services into Milwaukee in 2027. Episode Highlights: 3:09 | Scott's personal connection to the mission of Community Smiles Dental 7:51 | What Community Smiles Dental does and who it serves 10:05 | Why oral health impacts confidence, wellness, and quality of life 14:11 | A patient success story highlighting the need for specialized dental care 19:47 | The importance of advocacy and community partnerships 24:28 | Common misconceptions about nonprofit dental care 26:02 | Volunteer opportunities and ways to get involved 29:18 | Plans for a new Milwaukee clinic and future growth 30:30 | How community support helps expand access to care COMMUNITY SMILES DENTAL Community Smiles Dental is a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving access to quality oral healthcare throughout southeastern Wisconsin. Through its clinics in Waukesha and Menomonee Falls, the organization provides comprehensive preventive and restorative dental services while helping remove barriers that can prevent individuals and families from receiving the care they need. With a focus on compassion, accessibility, and long-term oral health, Community Smiles Dental works to ensure every patient has the opportunity to achieve a healthy smile and improved quality of life. Website: communitysmiles.org ELLENBECKER INVESTMENT GROUP Presenter of the MPC Podcast. Ellenbecker Investment Group (EIG), a registered investment advisor, provides comprehensive financial planning and fiduciary wealth management for individuals, families, businesses, and charitable foundations. Website: ellenbecker.com This podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be considered legal, tax, or financial advice. Guest opinions represent the views of the individuals speaking, and references to companies or organizations do not imply endorsement by Ellenbecker Investment Group.

  2. Jul 23

    The Salvation Army

    When life takes an unexpected turn, having a safe place to land can make all the difference. This week on MPC, we're joined by Major Rachel Stouder of The Salvation Army Milwaukee to discuss how the organization supports individuals and families experiencing homelessness, housing instability, medical challenges, and other unexpected crises. While many people recognize The Salvation Army through its red kettles during the holiday season, the organization provides critical services year-round. Rachel shares how The Salvation Army's Emergency Lodge offers short-term housing, respite care, case management, and compassionate support for people navigating some of life's most difficult circumstances. THE SALVATION ARMY (MILWAUKEE) Headquartered in Wauwatosa, The Salvation Army's Wisconsin and Upper Michigan Division serves communities through Worship and Community Centers, service extension units, homeless shelters, thrift stores, food pantries, camping programs, and other outreach services. The Salvation Army, an international movement, is an evangelical part of the universal Christian Church. Its message is based on the Bible. Its ministry is motivated by the love of God. Its mission is to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and to meet human needs in His name without discrimination. Website: samilwaukee.org ELLENBECKER INVESTMENT GROUP Presenter of the MPC Podcast. Ellenbecker Investment Group (EIG), a registered investment advisor, provides comprehensive financial planning and fiduciary wealth management for individuals, families, businesses, and charitable foundations. Website: ellenbecker.com This podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be considered legal, tax, or financial advice. Guest opinions represent the views of the individuals speaking, and references to companies or organizations do not imply endorsement by Ellenbecker Investment Group.

  3. Jul 16

    Temple of Kinship

    For women living with metastatic breast cancer, healing involves more than treatment, it also requires connection, community, and care. This week on MPC, we're joined by Alyssa Tsagong and Megan Monday, co-founders of Temple of Kinship, a nonprofit offering free retreats for women living with stage IV metastatic breast cancer (MBC) and their closest friends. Inspired by Alyssa's lived experience with MBC and the decades-long friendship she shares with Megan, Temple of Kinship was created to provide connection, resilience, and community-based support beyond traditional healthcare. TEMPLE OF KINSHIP Temple of Kinship is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization founded in 2024 by two friends, one living with metastatic breast cancer and the other walking closely beside her through the journey. Through free retreats and community-centered programming, Temple of Kinship supports women living with MBC and their friends by offering tools and quality-of-life-enhancing experiences beyond the bounds of traditional healthcare. Website: templeofkinship.org ELLENBECKER INVESTMENT GROUP Presenter of the MPC Podcast. Ellenbecker Investment Group (EIG), a registered investment advisor, provides comprehensive financial planning and fiduciary wealth management for individuals, families, businesses, and charitable foundations. Website: ellenbecker.com This podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be considered legal, tax, or financial advice. Guest opinions represent the views of the individuals speaking, and references to companies or organizations do not imply endorsement by Ellenbecker Investment Group.

  4. Jul 9

    Soles for Jesus

    Many of us take shoes for granted, yet for millions of people in rural Africa, a simple pair of shoes can mean access to school, employment, health, and dignity. This week on MPC, we're joined by Diane Studer, Founder of Soles for Jesus, a Wisconsin-based nonprofit dedicated to sharing the love of Christ through foot washing, shoe distribution, and partnership with local leaders across Africa. From a life-changing trip to Ethiopia to distributing more than 1 million pairs of shoes in 35 African countries, Diane shares how a single act of obedience grew into a global mission. She discusses the powerful impact shoes can have on education, health, and opportunity, and explains how anyone can make a difference through donating shoes, volunteering, hosting a shoe drive, or even joining a distribution trip. SOLES FOR JESUS Soles for Jesus collects new and gently used shoes and distributes them free of charge to underserved communities throughout Africa. By partnering with local leaders, the organization helps provide access to education, employment, and improved health while sharing messages of hope and encouragement. Since its founding, Soles for Jesus has distributed more than 1 million pairs of shoes and continues to expand its reach across the continent. Website: solesforjesus.org ELLENBECKER INVESTMENT GROUP Presenter of the MPC Podcast. Ellenbecker Investment Group (EIG), a registered investment advisor, provides comprehensive financial planning and fiduciary wealth management for individuals, families, businesses, and charitable foundations. Website: ellenbecker.com This podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be considered legal, tax, or financial advice. Guest opinions represent the views of the individuals speaking, and references to companies or organizations do not imply endorsement by Ellenbecker Investment Group.

  5. Jul 2

    Balance Inc.

    More than 8 million Americans live with an intellectual or developmental disability, yet many still face barriers to full participation in community life. This week on #MPC, we’re joined by Rebecca Jackson, Executive Director of Balance Inc., an organization dedicated to supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) as they forge their own paths, build meaningful relationships, and fully participate in community life.  From community homes and day programs to children's services and employment support, Balance partners with more than 125 individuals each year to help them live life to the fullest. Rebecca discusses the importance of social roles, why inclusion strengthens entire communities, and how Balance’s unique “secret sauce” blends fun, purpose, and meaningful experiences to help individuals build confidence, skills, and lasting connections. She also shares inspiring stories of people achieving lifelong goals and finding new ways to contribute to their communities. BALANCE INC. Balance Inc. empowers individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities to live fully, connect deeply, and thrive within their communities. Serving children and adults throughout Ozaukee County and surrounding areas, Balance provides community living, day programming, and youth services focused on fostering independence, meaningful relationships, and community engagement. Website: balanceinc.org ELLENBECKER INVESTMENT GROUP Presenter of the MPC Podcast. Ellenbecker Investment Group (EIG), a registered investment advisor, provides comprehensive financial planning and fiduciary wealth management for individuals, families, businesses, and charitable foundations. Website: ellenbecker.com This podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be considered legal, tax, or financial advice. Guest opinions represent the views of the individuals speaking, and references to companies or organizations do not imply endorsement by Ellenbecker Investment Group.

  6. Jun 25

    Lake Country Clean Waters

    Most people don’t realize that the salt they spread in winter can end up in our lakes. John Macy from Lake Country Clean Waters is here to explain how everyday actions like that can impact water quality, and what each of us can do to protect these lakes for future generations. What started as a response to unsafe water conditions on Pewaukee Lake has grown into a regional effort to educate, connect, and empower communities across Lake Country. In this episode of #MPC, John shares how small, often overlooked habits can have a lasting effect on our lakes, why education is key to prevention, and how communities can work together to keep these natural resources healthy and accessible for years to come. LAKE COUNTRY CLEAN WATERS Lake Country Clean Waters serves as a resource to protect and improve lakes, rivers, streams, and groundwater throughout Lake Country. Through education, collaboration, and community-driven initiatives, the organization empowers individuals and local leaders to make informed decisions that preserve water quality for future generations. Website: lakecountrycleanwaters.org ELLENBECKER INVESTMENT GROUP Presenter of the MPC Podcast. Ellenbecker Investment Group (EIG), a registered investment advisor, provides comprehensive financial planning and fiduciary wealth management for individuals, families, businesses, and charitable foundations. Website: ellenbecker.com This podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be considered legal, tax, or financial advice. Guest opinions represent the views of the individuals speaking, and references to companies or organizations do not imply endorsement by Ellenbecker Investment Group.

  7. Jun 18

    Whitefish Bay Civic Foundation

    What does it take to build a stronger, more connected community right where you live? This week on #MPC, we’re joined by Chris Muellenbach, President of the Whitefish Bay Civic Foundation, a volunteer-led organization dedicated to bringing people together and enhancing life in the village. From beloved traditions like the Fourth of July parade and Sounds of Summer to the Great Pumpkin Festival and community ice cream socials, their work transforms simple moments into lasting connections. Through year-round planning and grassroots support, the foundation creates meaningful opportunities for residents, businesses, and families to engage, give back, and celebrate what makes Whitefish Bay special. Chris shares what it really takes to power these experiences, how volunteers and donors make it all possible, and why community-centered traditions matter now more than ever. We also explore new initiatives like the Whitefish Bay 62K, a creative, community-wide challenge designed to get people moving, connected, and invested in local impact. WHITEFISH BAY CIVIC FOUNDATION The Whitefish Bay Civic Foundation is dedicated to making Whitefish Bay a great place to live, work, and play. Through volunteer-driven events, scholarships, and community initiatives, the foundation brings residents together, supports local needs, and strengthens the fabric of the village year-round. Website: wfbcivicfoundation.org ELLENBECKER INVESTMENT GROUP Presenter of the MPC Podcast. Ellenbecker Investment Group (EIG), a registered investment advisor, provides comprehensive financial planning and fiduciary wealth management for individuals, families, businesses, and charitable foundations. Website: ellenbecker.com This podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be considered legal, tax, or financial advice. Guest opinions represent the views of the individuals speaking, and references to companies or organizations do not imply endorsement by Ellenbecker Investment Group.

  8. Jun 11

    Fostering Community

    What does it really mean to “be the village” for foster and adoptive families? This week on #MPC, we’re joined by Natalie Anderson, founder of Fostering Community, an organization working to build connection, support, and belonging for foster, adoptive, and kinship families across southeastern Wisconsin. Through large-scale events and ongoing support, Fostering Community helps meet practical needs and create shared experiences, from resource fairs and school supply drives to holiday events and opportunities for siblings and biological family members to stay connected. Natalie also breaks down the realities families face behind the scenes, from long waits for adoption or reunification and the emotional and logistical demands of caring for children with trauma histories to the separation of sibling groups and the opportunities Fostering Communtiy creates to reconnect them. FOSTERING COMMUNITY Fostering Community’s mission is to encourage and empower children and families involved in adoption and foster care by supporting them as a community. They partner with local organizations, non profits, and individuals who desire to make a difference and be the village for those involved in foster care and adoption through family events, tangible needs, resources, and community connections. Website: fostering-community.com ELLENBECKER INVESTMENT GROUP Presenter of the MPC Podcast. Ellenbecker Investment Group (EIG), a registered investment advisor, provides comprehensive financial planning and fiduciary wealth management for individuals, families, businesses, and charitable foundations. Website: ellenbecker.com This podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be considered legal, tax, or financial advice. Guest opinions represent the views of the individuals speaking, and references to companies or organizations do not imply endorsement by Ellenbecker Investment Group.

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About

MPC: Milwaukee's Philanthropic Community is a podcast by Ellenbecker Investment Group that celebrates philanthropy and community impact in Wisconsin. Hosted by Jill Economou, Director of Community Relations, MPC highlights Milwaukee-area nonprofit organizations, inspiring stories of giving, and practical ways listeners can make a difference. Each Thursday, new episodes feature leaders of local nonprofits, changemakers, and individuals passionate about creating positive impact. Learn how to give back, discover the joy of philanthropy, and explore opportunities to support causes that matter in Milwaukee and beyond. Join us to uncover the value of giving, connect with the Milwaukee philanthropic community, and find your own path to making a difference.

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