A Community Pillar in the Heart of Milwaukee
Djdade Denson has transformed Coffee Makes You Black into more than just a coffee shop; it’s a community hub on Milwaukee’s North Side, celebrated for its role in local development and social support. Celebrating its significant presence since 2001, this establishment recently marked a new chapter with the completion of essential facility renovations showcased during a recent ribbon-cutting event. Jennifer Jones, the Executive Director, highlighted the dual achievement of operational success and physical upgrades, illustrating the organization’s commitment to providing comprehensive services like financial education, healthcare assistance, and substantial food distributions to those in need.
Expanding Impact Through Dedicated Service
Denson’s involvement extends beyond the coffee shop. He chairs the Jaha Workshop, which annually hosts the “Camp Xhongo” Peace Father & Son Retreat, promoting bonding and community among males in the area. His background in project management and civil and environmental engineering from Marquette University has equipped him with the skills to deeply impact his community positively. Denson’s leadership and dedication to service have made significant contributions, including distributing over 232,350 pounds of food and hygiene products last year, underscoring the critical role Helping Hands plays in Berkeley County.
Building Foundations for Future Growth
The journey of Helping Hands of Goose Creek is intertwined with the continuous need for community support and the challenge of securing necessary funding for ongoing operations and expansions. With a significant grant from the Community Development Block Grant program, the organization has managed to enhance its facilities, making them more efficient for serving the community’s needs. The story of Helping Hands is one of resilience and commitment, characterized by a relentless pursuit of community welfare and the empowerment of those in need, ensuring that support is not just available during the holiday seasons but all year round.