About Us

History

The Joseph and Vera Zilber Charitable Foundation, Inc. is a private, independent grantmaking institution founded by the late Joseph J. Zilber in 1961. Born and raised in Milwaukee, Joe Zilber attended Milwaukee public schools and Marquette University, where he met his wife, Vera. They lived and raised their children in Milwaukee, where Joe established Zilber Ltd., a residential and commercial real estate firm. Today, Joseph and Vera Zilber Charitable Foundation, Inc. is the majority owner of Zilber Ltd., which continues to invest, build, and manage real estate throughout the country.

Mission

The Zilber Family Foundation is dedicated to enhancing the well-being of individuals, families, and neighborhoods. The Foundation supports nonprofit organizations, to:

• • address basic needs and ensure personal safety
• • increase access to social and economic opportunity
• • improve the quality of life in neighborhoods

The majority of the Foundation’s grants support organizations working in the City of Milwaukee, particularly in the Lindsay Heights, Clarke Square, and Layton Boulevard West neighborhoods. More selective support for organizations located in Hawaii and communities where Zilber Ltd. operates are awarded annually.