Amber Bricco has lived in Milwaukee’s quiet Martin Drive neighborhood for over a decade. Like many of the neighborhood’s residents, she is invested in her community and, like many in the neighborhood, she noticed time after time the boarded-up building on Vliet Street. It had been a vacant eyesore for the bordering Martin Drive and Washington Park neighborhoods for the last 10 years. Passing by on a walk with their dog Jasper, Amber looked at her wife Rachael and asked, “What if?”
Over the next year and with their community’s support, Amber and Rachael turned the building into Denizen MKE, a venue that hosts intimate, intentional events that give back.
One upcoming event at Denizen MKE is Pride United’s second annual Pride Homecoming. Pride United, one of United Way’s donor networks, consists of LGBTQ+ leaders, allies, and advocates who are committed to addressing the LGBTQ+ community. In 2023, Pride United created Pride Homecoming to offer a homecoming experience where LGBTQ+ adults can freely bring their partner of choice. The 2023 event brought together a loving community who enjoyed food and drink, a DJ and dancing, and many photo opportunities reminiscent of a high school dance. Amber attended the inaugural event and was thrilled to be a part of something where all were welcomed and celebrated.
“I almost fell off my chair when I was asked to host it this year!” she mused. “It was so fun last year. To have such a fun event that’s specifically for LGBTQ+ people is great. It’s awesome.”
This year, Pride United is lifting United Way’s Safe & Stable Homes initiative, which supports programs that will end family homelessness in our entire four-county footprint. Some funded programs within this initiative are addressing unmet housing needs for young people, including displaced LGBTQ+ youth. Supporting Safe & Stable Homes through Pride Homecoming is something Amber is looking forward to.
“We take a portion of our sales and give it back to the community. We’re very invested in making changes in our community to impact our neighbors and people’s lives,” she said. “Anytime I can do something to help United Way, I hop on board. United Way supports so many communities and so many things, and I think it’s a great cause.” 
Amber’s commitment to strengthening the community extends to any nonprofit that is looking for a space. She looks forward to accommodating many more events and fundraisers that continue to support nonprofits and give back to programs to revitalize communities where the need is most urgent. The events that Amber and Denizen MKE have held – and will continue to have – are a shining example of inclusiveness in Milwaukee County. Hosting this year’s Pride Homecoming underscores their mission to host intimate, intentional events that not only provide memorable experiences, but experiences that make a difference.
“The opportunities that we've received have just been wonderful for us,” Amber said humbly. “We’re really excited to host Pride Homecoming and to be a part of it.”
This year’s Pride Homecoming will be held on Saturday, September 21 at Denizen MKE. Food trucks will be outside with delicious bites, and dancing and networking will take place inside the building. Registration is closed for our 2024 Homecoming. Stay tuned for next year's uplifting event and don’t miss out.
Photos by Roost Photography. Top: Denizen MKE's reception area; Left: Amber (on right) and her wife, Rachael; Right: restroom suites at Denizen MKE.
Updated: 9/25/24