For more than 20 years, Gladys and Miguel have called their house a home.

It’s where they raised their family, put down roots, and, now in retirement, spend their days savoring the simple joys they’ve earned—tending to the garden, watching the seasons change, and enjoying the comfort of a place they’ve lovingly cared for over decades.

In the heart of Milwaukee, Ms. Alice has built a life defined by devotion, resilience, and love.

Ms. Alice describes her life in a few honest words: “A little lost before getting help.” But that feeling doesn’t define her. What defines her is family.

Miriam is a homeowner living in Milwaukee. She is a single mother and has significant mobility limitations due to past spinal and back medical procedures, which make walking and daily movement difficult. These physical challenges created safety and accessibility concerns within her home, particularly in the bathroom.

Ms. Nancy is a homeowner that has lived in her home for over 30 years. Nancy has had a number of back surgeries and has another one coming up in early 2024. Her daughter and granddaughter, from Atlanta, are staying with her until she recovers from the surgeries. Nancy loves her home because it is located close to the lake and has large dining room where would host family gathers to play games.

Albert and Patricia are homeowners in the Lincoln Village neighborhood. In fact, they consider themselves the last original homeowners from when they bought the home over 49 years ago. Since then, the neighborhood has become mostly rental properties. They live with their two cats and often host their grandkids. In the winter, Albert volunteers as Santa at local events and shops. RM initially met Albert and Patricia when canvasing the Lincoln Village neighborhood in 2021 where Block Build MKE was taking place at the time.

Ms. Carol is a kind and soft-spoken woman who has lived in her home since 1947 when her mother designed it. She was just 12 years old when they moved into the home. Now she lives alone and the only family that Carol has nearby is her cousin Susan

Marry was born in Mississippi but moved to Milwaukee in 1974. She has lived in her current home for over 24 years. Marry has worked as a teacher and as a daycare manager. Marry heard about Revitalize Milwaukee on TV and called with concerns of cross-wiring issues, no gate on the side of her house, and has some damaged drywall. Marry is the block captain of the neighborhood and is very active in providing resources for the youth in the area. 

Ms. Courtney is a 76 year-old Milwaukee resident that has lived in her home  for almost 40 years. Although she is the oldest of 13, she does not have much family support nearby. She moved into this house in 1984 to take care of a friend and has lived in it ever sense. In her free-time, Ms. Courtney likes to go camping or crochet blankets. She worked a nurse aid for years and then transitioned into geriatric care.

Ms. Mary is a Milwaukee county homeowner that has lived in her home for over 26 years. She initially reached out regarding her water bill increasing every month due to a possible leakage.

Losing mobility has adverse effects on one’s mental and physical health. Read about how we helped Janis and Franz regain their independence with accessibility modifications.