Growing More Than Gardens in Wisconsin’s Poorest Zip Code

It is statistically Wisconsin’s poorest area. But there’s something remarkable taking root in the heart of Milwaukee’s 53206 zip code. Every Saturday morning during the summer, you’ll find more than a hundred young people lining up to claim a spot with We Got This. The grassroots initiative is growing more than gardens here. It is transforming the idea of youth employment and a sense of pride. 

We Got This started more than a dozen years ago. It’s run by a team of dedicated volunteers who lead the way in converting more than 800 city-owned vacant lots into vibrant gardens. But as Executive Director (and volunteer) Alex Bruzan describes it, gardening is just one piece of the puzzle.

“Our kids don’t always get the first shot at a job or even understanding what work looks like,” Bruzan explains. “This is their chance. And not just to earn their first paycheck, but to show up on time, take responsibility, and walk away with a sense of pride.”

---

Listen to the full interview at the halfway mark here:

The students, between the ages of 12 and 19, are mentored by older peers, many who’ve come through the same program. They take part in guided reflections and even receive lessons on financial literacy. Every kid is paid $20 for their labor – the money is raised entirely through community donations. 

“We help them think about what it means to save money, to plan ahead,” Bruzan says. “A lot of these kids end up using their earnings to buy school clothes in the fall. That’s something to be really proud of.”

Some of the gardens sit near liquor stores. Others are tucked into quiet corners of the neighborhood. But no matter the location, these once-forgotten plots of land are blooming with flowers and vegetables – along with a renewed sense of community ownership. Bruzan says kids will often walk past the gardens during the week and point out what they planted.

“It’s doing something really important,” he says. “It’s giving our kids the chance to say, I added value to my neighborhood.”

The program hosts a back-to-school giveaway and community celebration at the end of the growing season. All the produce is distributed for free—either to the kids who worked the gardens or to local residents in need. And with no paid staff and more than 75% of its modest budget going directly to youth wages, We Got This relies heavily on volunteers and donations.

“You don’t have to be a professional to make a difference,” Bruzan says. “You just have to show up. And that’s the same message we give the kids. Show up, put in the effort, and you’ll be surprised by what you can grow—both in the garden and in yourself.”

Find more information including how to volunteer or support on the We Got This website here.