Board Member

We are seeking qualified individuals to join our Board of Directors who are passionate about our mission and bring diverse perspectives, skills, and experiences.

Our Mission Statement:

Havenwoods Neighborhood Partnership engages residents, businesses, and government to increase prosperity and wellness. We collaborate and advocate for transformative projects, investments, and programs that strengthen our community.

Our Vision:

Havenwoods is a diverse, welcoming community that provides access and opportunity for residents and businesses to flourish. Our neighborhood thrives as an economic engine for Milwaukee and a highly sought after location for people to live, work, and play.

About the Organization:

Havenwoods Neighborhood Partnership (HNP) is a Milwaukee-based nonprofit community development organization founded in 2001 to strengthen the Havenwoods neighborhood through economic development, housing, and community engagement initiatives. Originally established as the Havenwoods Economic Development Corporation, HNP was created to bring together residents, businesses, and local government to drive neighborhood revitalization and long-term prosperity.

History and Growth

Since its founding, HNP has played a central role in shaping the Havenwoods community. A major milestone was the creation of Business Improvement District (BID) #31 in 2003, which supports business attraction, retention, and corridor revitalization. Over time, the organization has expanded its scope from economic development to a broader, holistic neighborhood strategy that includes housing, workforce development, and environmental sustainability.

Key Achievements

HNP has contributed to the growth of a thriving business district with over 250 businesses and thousands of local jobs. It has led community revitalization efforts such as public safety initiatives, environmental projects, and commercial corridor improvements. The organization has also supported innovative developments and neighborhood activation projects that enhance quality of life and community pride.

Core Programs and Services

HNP delivers a range of programs designed to support both residents and businesses, including:

• Employer-assisted homeownership and down payment assistance programs
• Business support services, including façade, security, and landscape grants
• Community engagement efforts like cleanups, neighborhood events, and food distribution programs
• Environmental and beautification projects focused on green space and climate resilience

Strategic Priorities

HNP’s work is guided by a commitment to building a safe, economically vibrant, and inclusive community. Key priorities include expanding homeownership opportunities, strengthening workforce pathways, supporting local businesses, improving neighborhood safety, and advancing environmental sustainability. The organization emphasizes partnerships and resident engagement as core strategies to ensure long-term, community-driven impact.

Board Responsibilities:

• Provide strategic oversight and governance
• Ensure financial health and accountability
• Support and evaluate executive leadership
• Advocate for the organization’s mission
• Participate in fundraising and resource development

Desired Skills & Expertise:

Banking & Credit Counseling

• Strong understanding of banking systems, lending practices, and financial services landscape
• Knowledge of credit building, debt management, and financial stability strategies
• Familiarity with credit reporting, scoring models, and consumer credit laws
• Experience with financial counseling, housing stability, or community development initiatives
• Ability to provide strategic guidance on programs that support financial empowerment and homeownership
• Understanding of regulatory and compliance considerations in banking and consumer finance
• Experience reviewing financial reports, budgets, and organizational performance metrics
• Ability to identify risks and opportunities related to financial programs and services

Leadership & Governance

• Experience serving on boards or in advisory roles (preferred)
• Ability to think strategically and support long-term organizational growth
• Willingness to provide oversight, accountability, and sound decision-making
• Commitment to ethical leadership and fiduciary responsibility

Community & Relationship Insight

• Strong connections within banking, financial services, or community organizations
• Understanding of the financial challenges facing low- to moderate-income individuals and families
• Ability to advocate for equitable access to financial tools and resources

Personal Attributes

• Integrity and sound judgment
• Collaborative mindset with the ability to challenge constructively
• Passion for financial empowerment and community impact

Key Responsibilities of Board Members

• Attend and actively participate in board meetings
• Serve on at least one committee
• Contribute to strategic planning and oversight
• Support fundraising efforts (give/get expectations if applicable)
• Act as an ambassador for the organization

Time Commitment

• Board meetings: Monthly
• Committee meetings: Monthly
• Additional engagement: events, fundraising, strategic sessions

Estimated annual time commitment: 40 hours

Equal Opportunity Statement

Havenwoods Neighborhood Partnership is committed to building a diverse and inclusive Board of Directors that reflects the community we serve. We are an equal opportunity organization and do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic under applicable law.

We actively encourage individuals of all backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives to apply, including those with lived experience in the communities we serve. We believe that a diverse board strengthens our leadership, deepens our impact, and helps us make more informed and equitable decisions.