We All Rise: Design that Honors Culture and Function
CJ & Associates was proud to partner with We All Rise to transform their resource center into a welcoming, functional space that supports the diverse needs of the local African American community. This renovation project was a labor of love for each person involved. We worked with generous vendors and subcontractors who eagerly donated their time, expertise, and materials to ensure the project’s success.
The design of the We All Rise space was inspired by the vibrant flags of Africa, focusing on a color palette of greens, blacks, and reds. The goal throughout the project was to honor the roots and culture of the African American community through thoughtful artwork selections that showcase the essence of their journey.
We realized early in the process of transforming this very special and meaningful space, it demanded a vision that went beyond aesthetics. As a result, the focus was placed on optimizing the existing space to make it more efficient and comfortable. Our team’s meticulous planning and expertise in space utilization resulted in a design that efficiently and effectively used every square foot of a limited area. Doing so was a key part of the project, as the finished product made it possible for a variety of vital activities and services offered by We All Rise to happen.
Central to this project was the collaborative partnership with Leadership Green Bay, a prestigious community leadership program active since 1985 and renowned for its commitment to fostering growth, engagement, and positive change. The space for We All Rise was a pilot project for the organization, whose fundraising efforts were the lifeblood of this project. Their dedicated professionals, from diverse business sectors, championed the cause, demonstrating their commitment to community betterment.
One of the most inspiring moments of the process was witnessing first-hand the powerful impact We All Rise has on the local community. We saw mothers dropping their children off so they could attend job interviews and heard stories of people who found clothing and much-needed counselling services at the center.
Professionals in the area were proud to offer material, time, supplies, and assistance. These include:
- CJ & Associates: Design Expertise and Assistance; Flooring
- Global Furniture Group: Seating
- Milliken Flooring: Flooring
- Office Furniture Outlet: Window Treatments and Installation
- Koehler Flooring: A Portion of Labor and Restroom Flooring
- OIR: A Portion of Labor for Furniture Installation
- Verhalen Commercial Interiors: Graciously Donated All New Ceilings and Provided Labor.
Added assistance in the form of a grant for advanced technology from Northeast Wisconsin Technical College further enriched the capabilities of the resource center.
As this collaborative vision took shape, the resource center became even more of a haven of hope and support. We were truly moved to see how much good We All Rise does for the local community. A multitude of donations in the form of shoes and clothes in a broad range of sizes help keep families clothed. A diverse array of classes and counseling services support families and the community in less tangible but more meaningful ways.
Our team’s dedication and our partners’ support truly made all the difference. We extend our gratitude to all who worked on this important project.
The renewed We All Rise space stands as a testament to the power of collaborative work and deep compassion. We are proud of our role in this meaningful and deeply needed project, helping to empower the African American community in any way we can while supporting their journey to rise above challenges and thrive. Together, we have all created a space that inspires and truly changes lives.
