Advertise on podcast: MPC: Milwaukee's Philanthropic Community

For more than four decades, Zamora Group International has helped develop stronger leaders by focusing on character, communication, and purpose. In this episode of MPC, we interview Chuck Zamora, founder of Zamora Group International, about leadership, wisdom, and the importance of using your time well. Chuck shares how his journey from teaching to corporate leadership training led him to create Tools of Life & Leadership, a program that brings proven leadership principles to high school students early in life. The conversation also explores Christian Leadership and Success Strategies (CLASS) and the lasting impact of Chuck’s son, Cory, whose life continues to shape Chuck’s message. His story is a powerful reminder that leadership is rooted in integrity and that everyday matters. ZAMORA INTERNATIONAL GROUP The Learning Company was established in 1984 with only one purpose, to simply: “build better people to build better companies.” In 2017 that is still the basis that drives the business with only one minor change and that is, we see ourselves as an organization that “builds better people to build a better world.” Website: chuckzamora.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.

For more than 110 years, Wisconsin Community Services (WCS) has quietly supported individuals facing complex mental health and justice‑related challenges.  In this episode, WCS President & CEO Clarence Johnson shares how community‑based mental health services, justice‑involved reentry support, housing programs, and even driver’s license recovery work together to help people live independently and with dignity.  Clarence also discusses why WCS’s trauma‑informed approach matters, what staff are seeing on the ground in Milwaukee’s mental health crisis, and how WCS’s first‑ever capital campaign aims to transform its Wisconsin Avenue Community‑Based Mental Health site into a more welcoming, healing space for clients and staff alike. WISCONSIN COMMUNITY SERVICES (WCS) WCS is a nonprofit human service organization that addresses the individual and systemic barriers that prevent many in our communities from leading productive and healthy lives. They empower individuals to build skills and overcome adversity, such as substance use, mental health needs, criminal justice involvement, and employment obstacles. Website: www.wiscs.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: www.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.

What happens to animals when they grow too big, too expensive, or too inconvenient for the humans who bought them? In this episode, host Jill Economou sits down with Jill Carnegie, founder of Valley of the Kings, and Shirley Combes, a volunteer of more than 25 years, to share the real stories behind lifelong animal rescue. From former circus tigers whose teeth were removed, to bears saved from a roadside zoo, to farm animals and pot‑bellied pigs surrendered after outgrowing human expectations, the conversation explores how Valley of the Kings became a permanent refuge for animals with nowhere else to go. Shirley also highlights one of the most overlooked animal welfare crises in the U.S., feral and community cats, and why spaying and neutering is essential to preventing suffering. VALLEY OF THE KINGS SANCTUARY & RETREAT Valley of the Kings Animal Sanctuary provides lifelong care for exotic, farm, and domestic animals who cannot return to the wild or be rehomed. Founded more than 50 years ago, the sanctuary serves as a permanent retirement home where animals rescued from neglect, abuse, roadside zoos, and private ownership can live out their lives with dignity and care. Website: votk.org Facebook: facebook.com/votkbigcats 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 his 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.

Nearly one in five adults in Wisconsin lives with a mental health condition, yet more than a third cannot access support when they need it. So where do people go before a crisis hits? Host Jill Economou sits down with Jennifer Zuelke, Certified Peer Support Specialist, and Melissa Wisniewski, Administrative Assistant at Our Space, to explore how peer support, drop‑in community spaces, and Parachute House fill critical gaps in the mental health system. Jennifer shares her personal journey through trauma, addiction, and recovery, and how lived experience fuels her work today, while Melissa explains why Our Space feels different and why connection and trust are essential to healing. OUR SPACE Our Space is committed to creating a safe and supportive environment where individuals living with mental health and substance use challenges can thrive. Since 1989, they’ve been a beacon of hope in our community, providing recovery-oriented, person-centered programs designed to foster independence, connection, and wellness. Website: ourspaceinc.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.

Where do you turn when you’re searching for guidance? This week, Sabrina Busch, founder of the new ministry Prayer Haven, shares how her mission to bring faith beyond church walls is transforming communities. Sabrina shares how Prayer Haven supports people who feel disconnected from church environments, and why obedience, storytelling, and community resources can transform lives. She also explains Prayer Haven’s “Legacy Piece” program, the growing demand for “Bible Boxes” and her long‑term vision for a mobile ministry that meets people in crisis. Want to get involved, donate, or sponsor a Bible Box? Search “Prayer Haven Wisconsin” to learn more and support this growing grassroots nonprofit. PRAYER HAVEN Prayer Haven’s mission is to help people build a real relationship with God outside traditional church settings by offering accessible faith resources, supportive spaces, and opportunities for personal spiritual growth. The ministry focuses on meeting people where they are and provides tools to help individuals deepen their faith and experience God’s presence in everyday life. Website: prayerhavenministry.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.

What happens when a community removes limits and lets every individual discover what they are truly capable of? In this episode, host Jill Economou talks with Erik Martin, Executive Director of Pantheon Industries, about how the organization helps individuals with disabilities explore careers, build skills, and find meaningful employment in southeastern Wisconsin. Eric explains Pantheon’s full spectrum of services, including center-based pre-vocational work, community-based job shadows and mock interviews, supported employment, coaching for employers, and day programming for older adults or those needing a blended schedule of work and enrichment. Erik also shares memorable stories of impact, from a young man who discovered a perfect fit as a hospital sterilization technician to a long-term restaurant employee who recently celebrated a well-earned retirement. He discusses the creative partnerships that make these outcomes possible, including employers who provide tours, job shadows, contracted work, and customized roles that match a person’s abilities. PANTHEON INDUSTRIES Pantheon Industries is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization which strives to help individuals with disabilities achieve their full potential through a variety of employment opportunities. They believe that in meaningful work lies dignity and self-worth, which is why they emphasize possibilities over limitations. Website: pantheonindustries.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.

Sometimes the most powerful encouragement comes from someone who has lived the struggle themselves. In this episode of MPC, we sit down with Roger Smith, fifth‑generation member of the A.O. Smith family and founder of The Builders Ministry. After battling depression for 56 years, Roger now uses his story and his renewed faith to help others break free from fear, anxiety, and emotional wounds. Roger shares his journey from growing up in a prominent Milwaukee business family, to navigating a decades‑long corporate career while carrying private pain, to finally finding healing through intentional counseling, gratitude practices, and spiritual renewal. Today, The Builders Ministry exists to support people with broken hearts, offering hope, encouragement, and tools to rebuild emotional and spiritual strength. THE BUILDERS MINISTRY The Builders Ministry equips Christians with the full power of the gospel to ignite their faith and bring healing to the broken‑hearted. Their mission is to strengthen, encourage, and restore believers so they can walk confidently in their identity in Christ. Website: thebuildersministry.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.

Women were the original brewers, and they’re reclaiming their place in the industry. In this episode, we revisit that powerful history as we sit down with Julianna Pierandozzi from the Women’s Beer & Spirits Collective, a statewide collaboration of women working across Wisconsin’s breweries and spirit companies. Julianna shares how the Collective began with women simply looking around their industry and recognizing that their shared experiences, challenges, and expertise could be a force for good. Julianna shares how the collective selects local nonprofit partners and works with breweries and bars to raise funds throughout March. She also shares real examples of their impact, including support for domestic violence services and creative programs like art therapy. WOMEN’S BEER AND SPIRITS COLLECTIVE The Women’s Beer & Spirits Collective is a grassroots collaboration of women working across Wisconsin’s beer and spirits industry. The group comes together each March to host events that raise money for nonprofits serving women and families. Formed by women who noticed their growing representation in the industry, the collective focuses on giving back through industry partnerships and month‑long fundraising efforts. Instagram: @WIBeerandSpiritsCollective Facebook: Women’s Beer and Spirit Collective 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.

TeamTeal365 began because its founder didn’t see what survivors needed in her community and decided to build it. In this episode of Milwaukee’s Philanthropic Community (MPC), host Jill Economou speaks with Samantha Collier, Executive Director and Founder of TeamTeal365, and advocate Tycie Godsey. They share how TeamTeal365 has grown into a survivor-led, statewide movement serving all 72 counties in Wisconsin, empowering youth and adults through healing centered engagement, prevention education, and hands on advocacy. The conversation explores survivor‑led programming, cultural gaps in victim services, the importance of warm handoffs, and “Paint the City Teal Day,” a growing April awareness effort that lights up landmarks like Milwaukee’s Hoan Bridge and invites communities everywhere to stand with survivors. TEAMTEAL365 TeamTeal365 is a survivor‑led nonprofit whose mission is to empower survivors, encourage dialogue about sexual abuse, and educate the community on prevention. Through year‑round advocacy, healing‑centered engagement, youth and adult programming, and community awareness efforts, TeamTeal365 opens conversations that help survivors protect self, heal self, and thrive. Website: teamteal365.com Email: [email protected] Register for our March 12th webinar on travel insurance here: https://bit.ly/4ccSKga 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.

Kwizera Ministries began with one trip to Rwanda and a simple desire to help. Today, that desire has grown into a global effort that supports genocide survivors, strengthens vulnerable communities, and rescues children who have been forgotten on the streets of India. In this episode of Milwaukee’s Philanthropic Community, host Jill Economou speaks with founders Carolyn and Ray Gumm about the moments that launched Kwizera’s mission and the people who shaped its direction. They reflect on the importance of listening before acting, the power of prayer, and the way compassion can open doors to healing. The conversation also explores Nani’s Kids, an initiative designed to bring safety, education, and stability to children living outside a train station in Varanasi. KWIZERA MINISTRIES Kwizera Ministries exists to bring the Word of God and the hope of Christ to underserved, persecuted, and vulnerable communities in Rwanda and South Asia, working through prayer, Scripture, and relationship to help people find healing, forgiveness, love, and peace. Their mission includes educating children, supporting widows and pastors, and empowering communities through practical care and spiritual support. Website: kwizeraministries.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 do not imply endorsement by Ellenbecker Investment Group.

The G-IV Recovery Foundation is working to change the conversation around opioid addiction by breaking stigma, expanding awareness, and making life-saving resources accessible across Wisconsin. In this episode, founder George Moore and board member Kevin Roach share the powerful and heartbreaking story that led to the creation of the Foundation. After losing George’s son to an overdose, the Moore family made it their mission to ensure no other family has to experience the same tragedy. They explain how the opioid crisis is affecting students as young as middle school, why fentanyl contamination is now involved in the majority of accidental overdoses, and how stigma continues to keep people from seeking help. Join the Movement ➡️ Add your name at www.narcanaforschools.com and help make Narcan accessible in every school where it can save a life. G-IV RECOVERY FOUNDATION The G-IV Recovery Foundation was created in memory of George Moore IV with a mission to save lives by increasing awareness, fighting stigma, and expanding access to overdose prevention tools. Through community outreach, advocacy, education, and free Narcan kits, the Foundation is committed to reducing opioid deaths throughout Wisconsin. Website: www.georgeivrecoveryfoundation.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: www.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 do not imply endorsement by Ellenbecker Investment Group. 

Milwaukee Chamber Theatre is reimagining what it means to be a local arts organization by building community connection and bringing storytelling beyond the stage. In this conversation, Executive Artistic Director Brent Hazelton shares how the company is not only producing high quality theatrical work but also building connections across Milwaukee and neighborhood community spaces. Topics discussed: Milwaukee Chamber Theatre’s focus on local talent, with most artists coming from Milwaukee or Wisconsin Their new community outreach initiative that brings theater into schools, senior centers, and community spaces How partnerships and shared storytelling can help communities understand one another Ways to get involved through donations, partnerships, advocacy, or attending performances Why theater can be a powerful catalyst for conversations about mental health, connection, and community change MILWAUKEE CHAMBER THEATRE The mission of the Milwaukee Chamber Theatre is to produce intimate, high-quality, professional theatrical works of literary merit that engage and challenge the audience, while employing and nurturing principally local theatre artists. Website: https://www.milwaukeechambertheatre.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: https://www.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 do not imply endorsement by Ellenbecker Investment Group. 

Hunger affects more than 694,000 people in Wisconsin, including 200,000 children. We’re sitting down with Feed Your Soul, Inc. to talk about how they’re helping. In this episode of “MPC: Milwaukee’s Philanthropic Community", founder Rick Lowry shares how the organization uses a mobile, faith-based approach to serve individuals and families facing food insecurity and homelessness. We also discuss Feed Your Soul’s growth from a small local effort to a national nonprofit, how their mobile trucks deliver “total needs” support directly into communities, and the role partnerships and volunteers play in expanding their impact. FEED YOUR SOUL, INC Feed Your Soul is a Wisconsin-based nonprofit that addresses food insecurity through mobile meal programs, community partnerships, and faith-driven outreach focused on serving the whole person. Website: https://www.feedyoursoulwi.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: https://www.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 do not imply endorsement by Ellenbecker Investment Group. 

On this episode of “MPC: Milwaukee’s Philanthropic Community,” we sit down with representatives from Wildlife In Need, a nonprofit organization dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating, and releasing injured, sick, and orphaned native Wisconsin wildlife back into their natural habitats. They share how Wildlife In Need responds to thousands of calls each year, cares for nearly 3,000 wild animals across more than 140 species, and operates as a volunteer-driven center that educates the public about peaceful coexistence with our wild neighbors. The discussion highlights the organization’s community education programs, including school visits and ambassador animal presentations, which help tens of thousands of people better understand wildlife and how to help them thrive. WILDLIFE IN NEED Wildlife In Need is a nonprofit wildlife rehabilitation center based in Oconomowoc, Wisconsin, devoted to rescuing, rehabilitating, and releasing injured, sick, and orphaned native wildlife while educating the public about humane coexistence with wild animals. Website: https://www.helpingwildlife.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: https://www.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 do not imply endorsement by Ellenbecker Investment Group. 

On this episode of “MPC: Milwaukee’s Philanthropic Community,” we sit down with leaders from Heart 2 Heart Compassionate Widows Circles (H2HCWC) to explore how this nonprofit is creating spaces of healing, connection, and hope for widows in our community. They share the heart behind H2HCWC’s mission and the impact of programs like Tea Talks and culinary arts sessions, which provide widows with safe, nurturing environments to process grief, build meaningful relationships, and support one another through shared experience. Looking ahead to 2026, they plan to expand mobile programming across southeast Wisconsin. #WidowSupport #GriefSupport #MentalHealth #NonprofitImpact #CommunityHealing #WomenSupportingWomen #MPCPodcast H2HCWC Heart 2 Heart Compassionate Widow's Circles Inc. is a non-profit organization that was founded in January 2022 with a powerful mission: to bridge the gap between church and community while empowering participants towards independence and self-sufficiency through participation in Compassionate Widow’s Circles.  Website: h2hcwc.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 do not imply endorsement by Ellenbecker Investment Group.