MCSC Executive Director Mike Consiglio, MCSC Board Chairman Marty Griffin, and Senior Vice President, Lending Mike Kellman at the home build site in Cudahy.

North Shore Bank has just embarked on an innovative partnership with Milwaukee Community Service Corps (MCSC) that will create new housing in Cudahy and provide valuable job training for local young adults.

Construction began on a new home at 3625 East Somers Ave. in Cudahy on April 7. But this isn’t just any home build! North Shore Bank is providing an interest-free construction loan that enables MCSC to use the project as a hands-on training opportunity for Milwaukee’s young adults and those who are unemployed or underemployed. MCSC provides education, life skills, and job training opportunities for at-risk young adults that allow them to earn wages while improving the community and environment. 

Mike Kellman (front, left) takes part in the ceremonial groundbreaking.

“This is a unique partnership where really everyone wins,” said Mike Kellman, Senior Vice President, Lending, who spoke at the groundbreaking. “As a community bank, we get to support a wonderful community organization in its mission, MCSC members gain valuable work experience propelling future trade careers, the lucky buyer will receive a new home of the highest quality in a great community, and MCSC will have additional funds to do even more good.”

Here’s how it works:

• North Shore Bank is providing the no-interest funding to build the house.
• MCSC is contracting with home building crews who will train and work alongside MCSC members.
• The completed home will be sold at fair market value.
• The proceeds will repay the loan and all remaining funds will be donated to MCSC to further support its mission.

This is a rendering of the house that will be built on the Cudahy site.

The home itself will be approximately 1,700 square feet with four bedrooms, two bathrooms, and an unfinished basement. Several local contractors—including DJs Renovations Unlimited, Bliffert Lumber, and Current Electric—are offering their services at a discount to support this worthwhile cause.

While North Shore Bank has been proud partners with MCSC for over 10 years, this is our first joint home building project together. What makes this particularly special is that, according to Mike, he’s not aware of another homebuilding and training partnership quite like this!

“This project is an incredible opportunity for our corps members to gain hands-on construction experience while developing valuable skills that will not only shape their careers but also empower them for a lifetime,” Mike Consiglio, MCSC’s Executive Director, said.

Construction is expected to continue through summer 2025. It’s collaborations like these that truly reflect our values as a community bank dedicated to uplifting those around us!