(FOX 2) – The Kresge Foundation is moving its operations as the nonprofit which oversees $4 billion in philanthropy lays out new investments and new commitments.

The announcement about plans to relocate its headquarters to Detroit comes alongside $180 million in future plans for several neighborhoods in the northwest corridor. 

Currently based in Oakland County, Kresge will shift to the former Marygrove College in hopes of working more intimately with communities that it has tens of millions of dollars planned for.

Big picture view:

Kresge’s current headquarters are based in Troy, working out of a building that was reconstructed in 2006. It will eventually move to the Marygrove Conservancy site near Wyoming and McNichols for a planned opening in 2028.

Planning for the 70,000 square-foot facility will serve as the base of operations for the foundation’s 130 employees. 

Kresge is also committing five years-worth of funding for several projects in the Fitzgerald, Bagley, University District, and Martin Park neighborhoods. 

In those locations, Kresge will spend $180 million on helping stabilize housing in the area, boost ownership, improve the commercial corridor by adding more public spaces and providing more grant funding for residents and businesses.

Dig deeper:

A big chunk of the money it wants to spend will be promoting aspects of owning a home. That means repairing houses, building wealth, enhancing the nearby physical space, as well as providing rental assistance. 

The money is also going to a fund that will focus on tax relief and beautifying the neighborhood. Done in partnership with Live6 Alliance and Kresge, the Resident Investment and Opportunity Fund will prioritize:

• Vacant land stewardship, beautification and side lot activation
• Resources for home maintenance, critical repairs and accessibility improvements
• Property tax relief
• Support for renters

There are also plans to extend the Ella Fitzgerald Greenway eastward to Livernois, as well as enhancing Ella Fitzgerald Park.

1. Hispanic Heritage Month Kickoff

SEPT. 12 FROM 4-8 P.M. | DEER DISTRICT PLAZA

This year’s Hispanic Heritage Month Kick-Off will be held at the Deer District, with a lineup of vendors, food and live music all evening long. This event is hosted by the Hispanic Collaborative. 

2. Latine Placita @ UWM

SEPT. 16 FROM 11 A.M.-2 P.M. | SPAIGHTS PLAZA (SPAI)

UW-Milwaukee is celebrating Latine Heritage Month with live music, dancing, local Latine vendors (including free caricatures and tarot readings), and a live performance by Los Nenes Del Lago at 12 P.M. 

3. Hispanic Heritage Month Celebration

SEPT. 17 FROM  4-8 P.M. | ZÓCALO FOOD PARK 

Milwaukee Film is kicking off Hispanic Heritage Month celebrations with music from local DJ Loop. Local vendors include MKE Rag, Alquimia Skincare, Lupo Designs, Designs by Lali and Ina Maka Holistic Crystal Jewelry. Plus, there will be delicious food and drinks. 

4. Celebración Latina: Cultivating Raíces (Roots)

SEPT. 20 FROM 11 A.M.-3 P.M. | MILWAUKEE PUBLIC MUSEUM 

Visit the Milwaukee Public Museum to see Afro-Latin and Caribbean dance performances, and learn about Latin America through hands-on activities. 

5. Puerto Rican Festival 

SEPT. 21 FROM 11 A.M.-8 P.M. | HENRY MAIER FESTIVAL PARK

Hosted at the Summerfest Grounds, the 12th annual Puerto Rican Festival brings an electric lineup of Latin musicians, food and vendors to celebrate the rich culture and heritage of Puerto Rico.

6. Noche De Gala

SEPT. 27 AT 5:30 P.M. | LATINO ARTS

Indulge in tequila tasting, yummy tapas and authentic cultural experiences to benefit the Latino Arts Strings Program and its community of young musicians. The gala includes raffles and auctions, and an evening of Latin American cuisine, art and dance.

7. Celebración Latina: Hands-On Heritage

OCT. 11 FROM 11 A.M.-3 P.M. | MILWAUKEE PUBLIC MUSEUM

Learn from local artisans sharing their craft and cultural knowledge through hands-on workshops hosted by the Milwaukee Public Museum – artisan tables will be set up on the first floor. 

Want more great Milwaukee events? Check out our calendar!