Our Impact
For over a century, COA has grown our programs to meet the evolving needs of our community. Today, COA serves over 8,000 Milwaukee children and families at our two community centers, Camp Helen Brachman in central Wisconsin, and six Milwaukee Public Schools.
COA Stories from the Community:
The word community is, without question, central to human experience. Being a part of a community gives us a sense of belonging. It enables us to share personal relatedness and support the perpetual growth of each other, ourselves, and our environment.
Join us in reading stories of impact and empowerment from our COA community.
Darien gets back on track thanks to his parents and COA Teachers
“Not only did COA staff provide Darien, and fellow program participants, with a safe and accepting environment to complete online learning, but they also ensured that Darien’s voice was being heard.”
COA’s HIPPY program empowers children and parents
“HIPPY is not just a school readiness program; it is so much more. It is a parent empowerment program that gives parents tools to not only educate their children, but to bond as a family.”
Cream Skills basketball program gives youth a safe place to express themselves at COA
Nigel Harvey, Director and Founder of Cream Skills Inc., shared that at CSI, he and his staff strive to “create a nurturing environment where, win or lose, all participants feel like they are a part of a family.”
COA’s Camp Helen Brachman broadens horizons for Milwaukee youth
“When campers visit CHB, they live, learn, and play within a community of diverse peers and staff. Camp helps children feel a sense of connection and belonging as they create new friendships and memories.”
2021 Community Impact Data
Our Impact by the Numbers
Numbers and data give a glimpse of how COA Youth & Family Centers is making an impact in the Amani, Riverwest, and Harambee neighborhoods.
We know COA’s full impact cannot be captured by numbers alone: COA’s impact is also measured by the ways COA provides child-centered, family-focused, community-connected opportunities that expand possibilities, change lives, and builds futures for so many people living in Milwaukee.
Children and families served
every year at COA!
Of COA’s Early Education Center children
increased their motor skills!
Visits to COA’s Food Pantry in the
Amani Neighborhood
Youth participated in COA’s after school
Community Learning Center program
Children registered in COA’s
Early Education Center programs.
Virtual home visits to families in COA’s
HIPPY home instruction program.
The lasting impact of COA Youth & Family Centers speaks to the strength of our programs and the dedication of our staff, board, community partners, volunteers, and supporters.