Madison Reporter

The University of Wisconsin South Madison Partnership (UWSMP), located in the Village on Park, serves as a hub for community activity and connection. This initiative of the University of Wisconsin–Madison Office of Community Relations acts as a meeting point for numerous local groups, university programs, and other organizations.

Brenda González, director of community relations at UW–Madison, emphasized that UWSMP is more than just a building. "It’s a space that breaks down barriers and sparks collaboration," she said. The partnership is a resource for South Madison and its partners, with the team welcoming community members into the space daily.

The UWSMP has seen significant use by the South Madison community. In the last quarter of 2023 alone, it averaged over 1,100 visitors each month. More than 55 community partners, 11 UW–Madison schools and colleges, and 32 university divisions and institutes have held various events, projects, and activities in the building.

Tanika Apaloo, UWSMP Assistant Director, along with Candace Patterson, UWSMP Coordinator who joined last year are part of the team working to fulfill this mission. "We’ve hosted tax clinics, exercise groups, parental support organizations, book and writing clubs and more," explained Apaloo.

Community-based organizations can use this convenient space at no cost. Esther Ama S. Ptak from African Center for Community Development Inc., a nonprofit organization in Madison noted that UWSMP offers a welcoming environment for their community. It also provides accessibility due to its proximity to bus routes.

Another partner is Just Mindfulness which hosts sessions at UWSMP aimed at empowering women with a history of interpersonal trauma through education mindfulness and self-defense techniques. Dr. Carmen Alonso praised the accessibility of the space and commended the staff.

UWSMP also connects programs from UW–Madison’s campus to resources such as Get Movin’ In Motion, a free exercise program offered by the Wisconsin Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center. Annik Dupaty, outreach program coordinator with the center, noted that UWSMP’s location is essential for the success of the Get Movin’ classes.

González expressed pride in being part of the vibrant community and emphasized the importance of fostering connections and empowering partners to meet a broad spectrum of community needs. "We’re building a stronger Madison together," she concluded.