15 Years Strong - EST 2011
Energy is
everywhere.
What matters is what you do with it.
POWERING THE FUTURE
- We don't believe in waiting for opportunities. We create them.
- We don't just recognize potential. We activate it.
Who We Are
How We Got Here
Energize MKE was born from the spirit of the Tot Lot Experience, a grassroots movement founded in 2011 by Victor Sloan, and later joined by Walter Cullin Jr. at William Gore Park. The experience began as a simple idea: bring together a few friends from the neighborhood to connect, compete, and build community through the game of basketball.
Over the years, the Tot Lot evolved into an annual two-day event that draws the community together through high-energy competition, shared experiences, and meaningful connection becoming a platform linking families and fans to resources that support health, opportunity, and overall quality of life across Milwaukee.
In 2025, Energize MKE was created in response to that call. Built on the same foundation of community, culture, and connection, Energize MKE extends that energy into a year-round movement providing Milwaukee youth with ongoing access to mentorship, leadership development, and real-world opportunities to grow, lead, and shape their future.
Our mission
To see Milwaukee youth become the driving force of thriving communities grounded in purpose, connected through opportunity, and equipped to lead lives of impact.
Our vision
Energize MKE transforms everyday spaces into launchpads for youth growth where play becomes purpose, mentorship becomes momentum, and youth move from participants to catalysts.
Core values
01
Spark with Purpose
We ignite confidence, curiosity, and belief in each young person using every moment as an opportunity for growth, not just participation.
02
Built for More
We develop the whole person building mindset, character, emotional strength, and life skills that extend far beyond the game.
03
Belong & Be Seen
We create spaces where youth are known, valued, and supported where connection is real and everyone has a place.
04
Elevate the Standard
We hold high expectations and equip youth with the tools, discipline, and support to meet them and raise them.
05
Give Back Forward
We instill a legacy mindset encouraging youth to reinvest what they've gained into others and the neighborhoods they come from.
Meet The Captains
I learned that a jump shot can’t fix your life, but the discipline behind it can.
Marcel Adams
What's coming
Upcoming Events
Get Involved
Power The Movement
Ways to Give
Support Milwaukee youth with a one-time or recurring donation. Every dollar powers opportunity and opens doors for the next generation.
Donate Now →
Become a Sponsor
To learn more about current sponsorship opportunities please contact us at info@energizemke.org
Volunteer
Interested in volunteering? Send us an email at info@energizemke.org to learn more about future opportunities.
We don't believe in waiting for opportunities. We create them. We don't just recognize potential. We activate it.
Our Sponsors
