Common Ground Works
(Workforce Development)
The issue:
Far too many people are overlooked in hiring, with people of color—especially those with criminal records—significantly underrepresented in the workforce. Without stable employment, it becomes difficult to build a meaningful, sustainable life.
What’s being done:
Common Ground is using its collective power to expand the commitment of corporate Milwaukee to hire more people of color. As part of this effort, they have launched Common Ground Works, a workforce development and training organization modeled after successful programs like CARA (Chicago) and Cincinnati Works.
With seed funding and staff now in place under the leadership of Executive Director Erin Miller, the program is continuing to grow and preparing to launch its first cohort.
Why it matters:
Access to stable jobs and career pathways is essential for long-term stability, especially for individuals facing barriers like prior incarceration.
Get involved / Contact:
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Erin Miller, Executive Director
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Phone: 414-405-1423
Community Updates
Jury Diversity
The issue:
Juries in Milwaukee County often do not reflect the racial diversity of the community, which can have serious consequences for defendants of color. Research shows that jury composition directly impacts outcomes—for example, studies have found significantly higher conviction rates for Black defendants when no Black jurors are present.
What’s being done:
Common Ground is working to increase African American participation in jury service through a two-part proposal developed from research and conversations with community members and stakeholders, similar to San Francisco’s “Be The Jury” program:
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Enable more low-income folks to serve by increasing juror compensation from $25 to $100 per day. Financial hardship should not be a barrier to jury service.
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Inspire more African Americans to serve through outreach, education, marketing, and rebranding jury “duty” as an opportunity for justice.
Common Ground is currently exploring several avenues to make this proposal a reality.
Why it matters:
A jury should reflect a true “jury of peers.” Without that, fairness, trust, and justice in the legal system are compromised.
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Status:
This campaign is ongoing, with continued efforts to turn these solutions into actionable policy changes.
Energy Efficiency & Climate
The issue:
Climate change is affecting everyone, but not everyone has the resources to make their homes more resilient. At the same time, significant federal funding is available that could be used to support working-class and low-income communities through energy improvements, job creation, and lower utility costs.
Goals:
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Help low-income homeowners and renters access free or low-cost energy-efficiency upgrades
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Build power in working-class and lower-income Milwaukee neighborhoods
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Support the creation of quality green jobs, especially for people of color
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Reduce environmental impact by making homes more energy efficient
What’s being done:
Common Ground is partnering with organizations like Green Homeowners United to connect residents with upgrades that lower bills, improve comfort, and reduce carbon emissions. Funding for this work has been secured through the nonprofit Invest in Our Future initiative.
The team is currently researching key issues, including:
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Mismanagement of Milwaukee’s wastewater treatment plants by Veolia
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Expanding access to energy-efficiency programs
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A potential fossil fuel company lawsuit
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A power analysis of WE Energies
Why it matters:
Energy, housing, and environmental decisions directly impact cost of living, public health, and long-term community well-being—especially for those already facing economic challenges.
Status:
This campaign is in its early stages, with more developments and opportunities for engagement expected in the coming months and years.
Milwaukee Habitat for Humanity Events
(Taking place at Invisible Reality Ministries)
Habitat Home Repair Program
Rescheduled Date is TBD!
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Join us for another informational session to learn more about Milwaukee Habitat for Humanity’s Home Repair Program.
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*For registration, please contact us or reach out directly to Minister Helen Reynolds.
