The Milwaukee Awards for Neighborhood Development Innovation (known as the MANDIs) celebrated the “good news” of the successful efforts to revitalize neighborhoods and strengthen the community.Sponsored by U.S. Bank, in partnership with LISC Milwaukee, the MANDIs recognize individuals, organizations, and corporations who are improving conditions in Milwaukee’s central city neighborhoods.“The MANDIs celebrate Milwaukee’s diverse neighborhoods and the many passionate, committed residents and their partners working together to create a better future for themselves, their families, and their communities,” said Leo Ries, Executive Director, LISC Milwaukee.Finalists were selected from public nominations by a 40-member, independent, cross-sector volunteer committee. Winners will be announced at an Oscar-style gala on Wednesday, April 15th, at the Potawatomi Hotel and Casino, and featured through video vignettes.The “State Farm Building Blocks Award” recognizes a real estate project that advances the community. Finalists include:

• ICAN2 LABS
• Veterans Administration Community Resource and Referral Center, MLK Drive (A Wangard Partners Development)
• Zilber School of Public Health

Finalists were selected for five award categories. A sixth category, the “Wells Fargo People’s Choice Award” will be awarded to three finalists who receive the most public votes during the month of April.View the full press release as recently posted by LISC Milwaukee, or view the full articles as recently posted by the BIZTimes and Urban Milwaukee.