About Us

With your support, UPAF funds diverse local performing arts organizations, producing:

• Performances that inspire, challenge minds and stir emotions
• Confident and energized youth who use the arts as a springboard for lives filled with creativity
• Shared experiences that connect people from all backgrounds and ages

UPAF engages the community to support 14 Performing Arts Members, including these nationally or regionally recognized organizations:  First Stage, Florentine Opera Company, Milwaukee Ballet, Milwaukee Repertory Theater, Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra and Skylight Music Theatre. UPAF also selects numerous Affiliates each year for additional granting. Since 1967, UPAF's work has been instrumental in allowing these groups to focus more of their efforts on what they do best — creating, performing, educating and inspiring.

Our Vision:
A thriving Southeastern Wisconsin community uplifted by the performing arts.

Our Mission:
UPAF advances the vitality of Southeastern Wisconsin by raising essential funds, providing strategic stewardship and inspiring involvement in the performing arts.

Our Pillars:
UPAF is guided by the following four pillars:

1. Wide Scope of Investment: UPAF invests in a diversity of local performing arts organizations – in terms of size, focus and discipline – allowing donors to support the entire ecosystem with one gift.
2. Regional Vibrancy: UPAF’s strategic stewardship contributes to the vibrancy and growth of the entire region by:
   • Fostering creativity and innovation across sectors
   • Enhancing the business sector's opportunities to attract and retain talent
   • Stimulating related economic activity
3. Arts Education and Accessibility: UPAF invests in programs that provide performing arts access and education, ensuring targeted support reaches youth who live in underserved communities. UPAF supports programs which provide accommodations so that everyone, regardless of ability, can access the performing arts.
4. Inspiring Involvement: UPAF promotes the role of the arts in contributing to a healthy community by nurturing a pipeline of life-long performing arts enthusiasts and donors. Through fundraising best practices and special events, UPAF develops opportunities that deepen the appreciation of and commitment to the performing arts.

Defining Southeastern Wisconsin:
UPAF defines the Southeastern Wisconsin region as encompassing seven-counties:

 

Your gift to UPAF is a sound investment in the vitality of Southeastern Wisconsin. UPAF holds the highest rating from Charity Navigator for financial management, transparency and accountability.

UPAF receives NO government funding. Generous individuals, companies and foundations contribute to all dollars raised.

UPAF is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization registered in the U.S. under EIN: 39-6100399.