A Family Affair: The Kryshak Legacy of Giving Back
The Kryshak Family
Introduction to the Kryshak Family’s Philanthropic Spirit
In Milwaukee, Wisconsin, the Kryshak family - Loretta, her husband Michael, and their children - have woven a remarkable legacy of philanthropy that resonates across communities. United by a shared commitment to service, their collective efforts through Rebel Reform have touched thousands of lives, from distributing 4,000 bicycles to underserved children to providing 1,300 backpacks for the homeless. Their global travels to Africa, South America, and India, paired with hands-on volunteering, have shaped a family culture rooted in compassion and action. This article celebrates the Kryshak family’s journey, showcasing how their values drive meaningful change.
Building a Family Culture of Giving
For Loretta and Mike Kryshak, philanthropy is more than a duty - it’s a family tradition. As Executive Director of Rebel Reform, Loretta brings strategic vision, while Mike, a co-founder of Rebel Converting, provides operational support. Their children, raised in this environment of giving, actively participate in initiatives that reflect the family’s ethos. Together, they’ve cultivated a culture where service is a shared joy, reinforced by their belief in creating memories over accumulating possessions, as Loretta has expressed: “Prioritize memories with people, not things.”
This culture is evident in their collaborative approach. Whether organizing fundraisers or volunteering on the ground, the Kryshaks work as a unit. Their children’s involvement—from managing social media for campaigns to packing supplies—demonstrates how philanthropy has become a family affair, passed down through example and engagement.
Collective Efforts Through Rebel Reform
Rebel Reform, the social outreach arm of Rebel Converting, serves as the Kryshak family’s vehicle for impact. Their initiatives address critical needs in southeastern Wisconsin, with each family member contributing uniquely:
Distributing 4,000 Bicycles to Underserved Children
Over six years, the Kryshaks partnered with the 16th Street Community Center to deliver 4,000 bicycles and helmets to children in need. This effort, driven by the family’s desire to empower youth, provides more than transportation—it fosters confidence and independence. Loretta spearheaded logistics, Mike coordinated resources, and their children helped with distribution events, creating joyful moments for recipients. The bicycles, often a child’s first, symbolize the Kryshaks’ commitment to opening doors for future generations.
Providing 1,300 Backpacks for the Homeless
In collaboration with local organizations like Mr. Bob’s Under the Bridge, the Kryshaks supplied 1,300 backpacks filled with essentials, including blankets, toiletries, and “happy socks,” to Milwaukee’s homeless population. This initiative reflects their hands-on approach, with the family personally packing and delivering supplies. By including items like socks, they honor small acts of dignity, aligning with their philosophy of meaningful, direct impact. The children’s participation in these efforts underscores the family’s collective dedication.
MaskUpMKE: A Family-Led Response to Crisis
During the COVID-19 pandemic, the Kryshaks led the #MaskUpMKE campaign, distributing over 4 million face masks to healthcare workers and underserved communities. Loretta’s strategic oversight united 22 agencies, including the Milwaukee Bucks and United Way. Mike facilitated material donations from Rebel Converting, while their son, Thaddeus, innovated by repurposing wipe fabric for masks, and daughter, Violet, amplified the campaign online. This family-driven effort, which earned them the Gwen T. Jackson Community Service Award, exemplifies their ability to mobilize for collective good.
Supporting Food Security with Just One More Ministry
The Kryshaks’ partnership with Just One More Ministry (JOMM) raised over $50,000 to feed malnourished children in Milwaukee. Loretta’s $50,000 Match Grant Challenge incentivized volunteers, while Mike and the family helped renovate JOMM’s warehouse, expanding its capacity to serve thousands weekly. Their children joined in, packing food kits and learning the realities of food insecurity. This collaboration highlights how the Kryshaks blend financial support with hands-on service to address systemic challenges.
Global Travels Shaping Local Impact
The Kryshaks’ love for travel has profoundly influenced their philanthropy. Having explored all seven continents, including volunteer trips to Africa, South America, and India, the family has witnessed diverse cultures and challenges. These experiences - whether building schools in Africa or aiding communities in India - have deepened their understanding of human connection and inspired their local efforts.
In South America, they volunteered with local nonprofits, learning about grassroots solutions that Loretta later applied to Rebel Reform’s partnerships. In India, exposure to poverty and resilience shaped their focus on essentials like food and shelter in Milwaukee. Their children, who joined these trips, carry these lessons forward, evident in their active roles in Rebel Reform. Michael's global perspective, honed by studying in Poland during Soviet occupation, informs his ability to bridge international insights with local needs, making Rebel Reform’s work both empathetic and effective.
Rebel Reform as a Vehicle for Family Values
Rebel Reform embodies the Kryshak family’s core values: compassion, collaboration, and community. Loretta’s leadership ensures strategic alignment with high-impact organizations, while Michael's operational expertise maximizes resources. Their children’s involvement reflects a commitment to raising socially conscious individuals. Initiatives like “Rebels With a Cause” amplify partner stories, such as honoring teen Srisupraja Kandrakota for making 10,000 masks by donating money towards her college, inspires others to act.
The family’s hands-on approach - whether renovating facilities or delivering bicycles - creates personal connections with recipients, reinforcing their belief in direct impact. By prioritizing underserved communities, the Kryshaks address systemic issues like homelessness and food insecurity, using Rebel Reform to turn their values into action.
The Legacy of Giving Back
The Kryshak family’s legacy is one of ripple effects, where each act of service inspires further change. Their 4,000 bicycles have empowered children and encouraged kids to exercise and their 1,300 backpacks have restored dignity, and their 4 million masks have saved lives. Through JOMM and other partnerships, they’ve fed thousands, while their global experiences continue to shape their local impact. Their children, raised in this culture of giving, are poised to carry this legacy forward, ensuring its longevity.
For the Kryshaks, philanthropy is a family affair, rooted in shared experiences and a commitment to community. As Loretta has said, “Look for the positives in every situation and inspire others to look beyond the obvious.” Their work invites others to join in, proving that a family united by purpose can transform lives.
Conclusion: An Invitation to Continue the Legacy
The Kryshak family’s story is a powerful reminder that philanthropy thrives when it’s a collective endeavor. Through Rebel Reform, Loretta, Michael, and their children have built a legacy of giving back that spans continents and communities. Their efforts challenge us to embrace service, whether through a single act or a lifelong commitment. As Milwaukee benefits from their generosity, the Kryshaks’ legacy invites everyone to create their own ripple of impact, one family at a time.