Fab Philanthropists

Brad Schlaikowski

Co-founder and executive director at Courage MKE

Photo courtesy Courage MKE.

Courage MKE is a Wisconsin-based charity that’s working to raise funds and awareness for LGBTQ+ youth, all in an effort to ensure kids throughout the state’s communities possess the skills, tools and resources needed to grow into impactful community members.

What motivates you to pursue this kind of philanthropy? Every child deserves the same opportunities in life and our goal here at Courage MKE is to provide those we serve with a sense of stability and        normalcy in their lives. Yes, we are a group home but we operate very much like any other family.

You’re an inspiration to so many—who has most inspired you? We started this organization because of the stories our former teenage foster children used to share with us. Their stories of survival, strength and their sheer tenacity is and remains our inspiration to continue to fight for LGBTQ+ youth every day. 

Best advice for someone looking to give back and get involved in their community: My advice would be to find something you are passionate about and say yes. Life is busy with work, family and friends, and we all feel it from time to time but it takes saying yes one time to get involved and when you feel that feeling in your heart, you will always find the time to help. Most nonprofits do a lot with very little; your support regardless of a monetary donation or an hour of your time goes further than anyone can imagine.

What impact do you most hope to leave on the world? Gosh, this isn’t something I have given much thought about. But even though it may be a cliché, I would have to say that I have reminded people to always pay it forward. We never know when we may need the help, and if we have the capability/means to help, we should always find a way to do so.

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