It Takes A Village Foundation Re-Entry Program Honors Community Leaders At ‘3rd Annual Award Gala’

On Friday, November 7, 2025, approximately 200 guests gathered at the Hilton Garden Inn Conference Center on Park Place to celebrate the Third Annual It Takes A Village Foundation Re-Entry Program Community Leaders Award Gala. The evening was a tribute to the dedicated individuals making a lasting impact across Milwaukee’s communities.

The event began with a grand processional as 12 distinguished honorees were recognized for their outstanding contributions to community growth, empowerment, and re-entry support.

Steven R. Johnson, Warden of the Milwaukee Secure Detention Facility (MSDF), delivered an impassioned keynote reminding guests that “it truly takes a village” to impact lives and foster change. His message of integrity, compassion, and community engagement deeply resonated with attendees. The evening’s Mistress of Ceremonies, Sharon Jordan, known as the “Gospel Angel” from WNOV Radio, kept the celebration lively and heartfelt. President and CEO of It Takes A Village Foundation Dr. Shawna Whitehead, delivered a heartfelt closing message reaffirming the organization’s unwavering commitment to serving justice-impacted individuals and their families.