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Tour of Lindsay Heights, sustainable infrastructure, bio-swales, renewables, garden and orchards. Experience the best of urban sustainability with the Lindsay Heights EcoTour, a project spearheaded by the City of Milwaukee ECO HOME GR/OWN initiative and Walnut Way Conservation Corp. This exciting tour immerses you in the heart of Lindsay Heights Neighborhood, where you'll delve into topics like solar power, local food production, climate change adaptation, and more. Start your journey at the Walnut Way Center, once a condemned home, now transformed into an epicenter for community revitalization and environmental stewardship. Discover how 14 former vacant lots have bloomed into productive gardens, peach orchards, compost systems, and stormwater management projects. Venture to the Wally Schmidt Redevelopment, a testament to energy efficiency with its green roof and porous pavers. Don't forget to stop by the Innovation and Wellness Commons, boasting a rooftop solar system. For a unique blend of education and exploration, book your tour today!

Join us for a resident-led tour of Lindsay Heights, where you'll get a unique perspective on our neighborhood assets, future activities, and key programs. Explore sustainable infrastructure, bio-swales, renewables, gardens, and orchards through the eyes of our residents. Don't miss this opportunity to get an insider's view of our vibrant community!

Residential energy assessment process for residential properties focuses on enhancing energy efficiency and weatherization services. Our team conducts on-site visits to evaluate the suitability of locations for implementing energy-saving measures, such as insulation, weather sealing, and efficient appliance installation. We provide customized recommendations to meet your specific needs and goals, taking the first step towards a greener and more sustainable environment! Book now to start saving energy and reducing your environmental impact.

May brings fresh momentum to Walnut Way as we nurture roots of change in the neighborhood. From garden prep to tech access and café innovations, we're planting seeds that uplift community resilience and equity. Catch up on recent wins, events you won’t want to miss, and how you can get involved in shaping a vibrant, thriving Lindsay Heights.

The challenge of digital literacy in today's information-rich world is indeed a complex and pressing issue, intertwined with broader literacy concerns that affect millions of Americans. At the national level, the statistics paint a sobering picture. Approximately 54% of U.S. adults read below a sixth-grade level, with 21% reading below a fifth-grade level. This translates to about 130 million adults who struggle with basic literacy tasks, such as reading a simple story to their children. The economic impact is staggering, with low literacy costing the U.S. economy up to $2.2 trillion annually. Zooming in on Wisconsin, the local data reflects these national trends. One in seven Wisconsin adults struggle with low literacy, while nearly one in four have only basic numeracy skills. This means about 1.5 million people in Wisconsin need help building literacy skills. The situation is particularly dire in Milwaukee County, where 25% of adults read at or below the lowest literacy level. The digital divide exacerbates these challenges. In an increasingly technology-driven world, digital literacy has become as crucial as traditional literacy. Yet, 16% of U.S. adults are not digitally literate, and 40% of adults who use computers at work have low digital problem-solving skills. This digital literacy gap creates additional barriers for those already struggling with basic literacy. For many individuals, the combination of low literacy and limited digital skills creates a daunting challenge. Navigating the vast sea of online information requires not just the ability to read, but also to critically evaluate sources, understand context, and effectively use digital tools. This can be overwhelming for those who struggle with basic reading comprehension. Walnut Way Conservation Corps in Milwaukee is working to address these interconnected issues. They recognize that improving both traditional and digital literacy is fundamental to community empowerment. Their approach includes providing computer skills workshops and internet access to bridge the digital divide, alongside traditional literacy programs. The consequences of low literacy and digital illiteracy ripple through all aspects of life. It affects employment opportunities, health outcomes, and even civic participation. In Wisconsin, the impact is particularly pronounced in the education system, where the state consistently shows the largest Black-white gap in reading performance for fourth and eighth graders nationwide. Addressing these challenges requires a multifaceted approach. It's not just about teaching people to read, but also equipping them with the digital skills necessary to navigate our increasingly online world. This includes understanding how to access and evaluate information, use digital tools effectively, and participate in online communities safely and productively. The path forward involves community-based initiatives, policy changes, and a recognition that literacy in the 21st century encompasses both traditional reading skills and digital competencies. By addressing both aspects simultaneously, we can hope to bridge the gap and create more equitable opportunities for all. https://www.walnutway.org/

Walnut Way Conservation Corp, has become a champion for energy affordability in Milwaukee. Their commitment to addressing economic disparities and housing inequities has led them to push back against proposed rate increases by WE Energies. WE Energies sought to raise gas and electric rates for residents in Milwaukee, a move that Walnut Way saw as a failure of That would disproportionately impact low-income households' ability to afford their monthly utility bill. Walnut Way believes in the power of communities to drive their own change and felt that this increase would further burden the community they serve. In response, Walnut Way became involved in the rate case, reflecting its 20-year history of working to improve and support the community. This advocacy work resulted in the preservation of the LIFT Program by WE Energies, a significant victory for energy affordability in Wisconsin. Walnut Way's efforts illustrate the importance of community-led initiatives in the face of systemic challenges. Their work continues to impact all of Milwaukee, ensuring that all residents have access to affordable energy. The future of WE Energies' LIFT program, a pivotal initiative for forgiving low-income customer arrears, was recently under scrutiny by the Public Service Commission (PSC). The possibility of discontinuation loomed large. However, thanks to the concerted advocacy efforts by community organizations like Walnut Way, the program has been preserved and will continue to provide essential support through winter 2024. Advocacy in Action Walnut Way's intervention was instrumental in influencing the PSC's decision to keep the LIFT program operational. Their advocacy ensured this critical service, which helps customers clear outstanding balances, will persist. The LIFT program will now act as a companion to the forthcoming Percentage of Income Payment Program, a docket that is still active in proceedings. Walnut Way remains at the helm of these endeavors, representing the community's voice effectively. This effort included partners like Metcalf Park Community Bridges, Citizens Utility Board Sierra Club and Citizen Action Wisconsin, led by community organizer, Keviea Guiden and their grassroots initiative to address energy burden, "Fight for our Lights." Detailed Overview of the LIFT Program The LIFT program by WE Energies is a vital resource for customers burdened with significant overdue bills. It allows eligible individuals to eliminate their arrears, thereby preventing potential service disconnections and easing financial stress. In addition to the continuance of the LIFT program, the PSC has also directed WE Energies to lower the current $600 reconnection fee. The revised amount will be determined in the spring following discussions with PSC staff. Despite Walnut Way's proposal to lower the eligibility threshold for the LIFT program from $300 to $120, the PSC decided to retain the original threshold. However, they have allowed for discretionary reductions on a case-by-case basis. Looking Ahead As we approach 2024, Walnut Way plans to engage directly with the Commissioners post the appeal period for this decision. Advocacy for low-income customers will remain a priority, with a strong emphasis on aligning actions with declared intentions. Walnut Way will continue to leverage the data and opportunities provided by the community to justify the need for this support. The preservation of the LIFT program is a testament to the impact of community engagement and advocacy. Walnut Way will continue to lead these efforts, ensuring that vital programs like LIFT remain accessible to those who need them most. Upcoming Events and Opportunities

Our Services Blue Skies focuses on our greatest assets – our people. We offer job training in landscape horticulture for staff. The program provides job training and employment for individuals who have traditionally faced employment barriers and those seeking to build skills in a growing trade area. The program also provides a sustainable source of earned income for Walnut Way and serves as a powerful vehicle for individual and community transformation. The impact extends beyond traditional job training programs as residents of the community are employed to help renovate once-vacant properties into community assets and serve as mentors to neighborhood youth who witness us working to lift up Lindsay Heights. All Services Blue Skies Landscaping Housing Resources Green Infrastructure Site Assessment Negotiable Negotiable Request to Book Landscaping Services Quote Negotiable Negotiable Request to Book Residential Energy Assessment Negotiable Negotiable Request to Book Lindsay Heights Senior Home Repair Negotiable Negotiable Request to Book Wetlands Maintenance Bioswale Design and Installation Snow Removal Residential Landscaping Spring Clean-up Tree Planting Commerical Landscaping Fall Clean-up Eric Trunnell Property Maintenace & Rehab Specialist (414) 662-8777 etrunell@walnutway.org Dawnice Anglin AR/AP Bookkeeper (414) 253-8069 danglin@walnutway.org First Name Last Name Email Send Thanks for submitting! Get a Quote

"Community-Led Comprehensive Development." This approach aims to empower community members to drive their own change, with Walnut Way serving as a facilitator and supporter. No Theories... Just Transformation 2025 Lindsay Heights NID Election Results are in! Resident-led Projects Volunteer, Participate, or Donate Blue Skies Landscaping Workforce Training & Development Careers Our Focus & Philosophy Our Approach Community-led Comprehensive Development Order Now Taste of Lindsay Heights Cafe Events Join Us Schedule Neighborhood Eco Tour What We Do What we Do What we Do What we Do What we Do Walnut Way Conservation Corps is a non-profit organization based in the Lindsay Heights neighborhood of Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Our mission is centered around "Community-Led Comprehensive Development." This approach aims to empower community members to drive their own change, with Walnut Way serving as a facilitator and supporter. Our Community-Led Comprehensive Development approach recognizes the interconnectedness of wellness, work, and wealth. By fostering community wellness, we encourage active engagement. By linking work to environmental stewardship, we promote sustainable practices while providing meaningful employment. And by driving economic development, we enhance community wealth. Together, these elements create a resilient, self-sustaining neighborhood where every resident can thrive. Community Engagement Wellness Wellness Wellness Wellness Wellness is a foundational aspect of our community engagement work. We understand that a healthy community is an engaged community. We foster wellness through various initiatives such as our Wellness Commons space, senior home repair program, and advocacy for fair energy policies. By creating a safe and healthy environment, we empower residents to actively participate in decision-making processes and community activities. Enviornmental Stewardship Work Work Work Work Work, in our context, goes beyond just job creation; it's closely tied to environmental stewardship. Through initiatives like our green infrastructure programs, residential and commercial energy efficiency pilots, and our green jobs initiative, we provide opportunities for meaningful work that also contributes to a more sustainable environment. This approach is embodied in our businesses like Blue Skies Landscaping, where we generate revenue while enhancing our community's green spaces. Economic Development Wealth Wealth Wealth Wealth Wealth, in our view, is not just about individual prosperity, but about collective economic development. We support small businesses, administer a neighborhood improvement district, and rehabilitate residential foreclosures into affordable homeownership opportunities. These initiatives contribute to community wealth by enhancing economic mobility, increasing access to resources, and promoting local entrepreneurship. 2020 - Lindsay Heights, Northwestern Mutal Data Science Project This plan focuses on leveraging data science to drive social change. Walnut Way can use this resource to inform its decision-making processes, track the impact of its programs, and identify areas where further intervention might be needed. 2010 Lindsay Heights Zilber Quality of Life Plan This plan offers a comprehensive approach to improving quality of life in select Milwaukee neighborhoods, including Lindsay Heights. Walnut Way can leverage the strategies outlined in this plan to address issues like economic disparities, housing inequities, and limited access to resources within the community. 2023 - Data You Can Use - Lindsay Heights Portrait The portrait provides detailed demographic and socioeconomic data about the Lindsay Heights community. Walnut Way can use this data to better understand the needs and challenges of the community, tailor its programs accordingly, and measure progress over time. 2020 - Lindsay Heights Neighborhood Action Plan The action plan provides a roadmap for community improvement efforts in Lindsay Heights, outlining key goals, strategies, and actions to enhance various aspects of community life. Walnut Way can use this plan to guide its initiatives, ensuring that they align with the community's broader goals and priorities. 2020 - Milwaukee: African American Well-bieng Index This index provides critical insights into the wellbeing of African Americans in Milwaukee. It can help Walnut Way identify key areas of concern, develop targeted interventions, and track improvements over time. Leveraging Data in Our Decision Making Leveraging Data in Our Decision Making Leveraging Data in Our Decision Making Leveraging Data in Our Decision Making Download Download Download Download Download Home About Get Involved Blue Skies Taste of Lindsay Heights Resident Led EJII Wisconsin More... Give Log In 🕒Get Ready for Harvest Day 2025 Learn More @ Harvest Day 2025 We're excited to invite you to be part of Walnut Way's Harvest Day 2025. Please indicate your area(s) of interest: "Choose Your Tag"* Vendor Sponsor Entertainment Community Resource First name* Last name* Email* "Get Started" RSVP for Upcoming Commu nit y Events Multiple Dates Thu, Jul 17 Tasty Roll Thursday Bike Rides / Taste of Lindsay Heights COMMENT / REGISTER Jul 17, 2025, 5:30 PM – 7:00 PM Taste of Lindsay Heights, 1617 W North Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53205, USA 🚲✨ Join us for The Tasty Roll! Every Thursday from June 5 to August 28 Multiple Dates Tue, Jul 22 Lindsay Heights Neighborhood - Resident Tuesday Meetings / Wellness Commons COMMENT / REGISTER Jul 22, 2025, 10:00 AM – 11:30 AM Wellness Commons, 1617 W North Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53205, USA Every Tuesday, residents of Lindsay Heights and the broader North Avenue corridor community are invited to gather at 1617 W. North Avenue for the Lindsay Heights Tuesday Community Meetings. These meetings are designed to foster connection, share updates, and mobilize action on local projects and com Sat, Sep 20 Harvest Day 2025 / Clarence and Cleopatra Johnson - Park COMMENT / REGISTER Sep 20, 2025, 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM Clarence and Cleopatra Johnson - Park, 1919 W Fond du Lac Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53205, USA We're thrilled to invite you to the Harvest Day 2025, hosted by Walnut Way Conservation Corp. See All Reserve Space, Book a Tour, Get a Quote, learn more about our Services @ Walnut Way Venue / Meeting Space Pricing Neighborhood Tours Blue Skies Landscaping Housing Resources Freedom Affordable WIFI TOL - IWC Phase I - Activity Space Taste of Lindsay Heights Activity Space 2 hr Negotiable Negotiable Request to Book IWC Conference Room Lindsay Heights Community Conference Room 2 hr Starting at $35/hour Starting at $35/hour Request to Book Outdoor IWC Terrace Lindsay Heights Community Conference Room 2 hr Negotiable Negotiable Request to Book

< Back Jovon Siner Blues Skies Landscaping &Maintenace Supervisor Jovan Siner is the Blue Skies Landscaping Supervisor at Walnut Way, with more than a year in this leadership role. He brings over 20 years of carpentry experience—including formal training—and more than a decade in landscaping, home improvement, and repairs. As supervisor, Jovan oversees employees in landscaping, lawn care, snow removal, and related services, while also assisting with carpentry and auto repair tasks. His diverse skills and hands-on leadership make him an asset to the Walnut Way team jovan@walnutway.org 414-264-2326