Milwaukee Charity Bike Collection 2026: Behind the Scenes
Every bicycle has a story. Here's a look at what it really takes to collect, restore, and deliver hundreds of bikes to kids across Milwaukee who need them most.
2026 16th Annual Bike Collection
There's a moment every year that I look forward to more than almost anything else; the day when the warehouse at Rebel Converting fills up with bikes that are donated, collected, sorted, and waiting. Each one represents a child in Milwaukee who will soon have something they've never had before: the freedom to ride.
This year’s bike drive wouldn’t be what it is without the incredible support of Lake Express Ferry, whose partnership continues to power the event year after year. By offering complimentary ferry tickets to donors, they’ve helped turn a simple collection into one of the largest community-driven bike donation efforts in the region.
The 2026 16th Annual Bike Collection was amazing, and I wanted to pull back the curtain and show you what actually happens behind the scenes; the planning, the volunteers, the long days, and the unexpected moments that make this all worth it.
Bikes Come in Faster than We Can Sort Them
Most people don't realize that the bike giveaway begins months before the actual event. In addition to the bikes dropped off on event day, we hear from people all year long who want to give back. Apartment complexes and local police departments often reach out about unclaimed or extra bikes they’d like to donate. We also work closely with DreamBikes and Working Bikes, who help us put some of the higher-quality adult bikes to good use in exchange for kids bikes that go straight back into our community. And just as often, it’s individuals calling or emailing to ask, “Can I drop off a bike?”—which, of course, the answer is always yes.
The response every year humbles me. People dig through garages, pull bikes from storage units, call their neighbors. Businesses organize internal drives. Schools run collection competitions. By the time the drop-off dates arrive, bikes are coming in faster than we can sort them.
The Volunteers Who Make It Happen
I've said it before and I'll keep saying it: Rebel Reform is only as strong as the people who show up. This year, our volunteer team has been extraordinary. From teenagers giving up their Saturdays to retired mechanics tuning up donated bikes, every person who walks through the warehouse door is changing a child's life.
“When you hand a child a bicycle, you’re not just giving them a way to get around. You’re giving them independence and that means everything.”
The sorting process alone takes dozens of hands. Every donated bike is assessed — tires checked, brakes tested, frames inspected for safety. Those that need work go to our repair station, where skilled volunteers spend hours making sure every bike that leaves our warehouse is truly road-ready.
Documenting the Stories
As a photographer, I find these collection days almost overwhelming in the best possible way. The light in the warehouse in the early morning, the concentration on a volunteer's face as they adjust a derailleur, the pride of a donor handing over a bike they've carried from their car. These are the images I live for.
I've been shooting this collection from every angle this year, and I'll be sharing photos throughout the season right here on the blog and on social media. Follow along because the real story isn't in the final giveaway event. It's in all the quiet, unglamorous hours that make it possible.
From Collection to Communities
Join us this June at Kosciuszko Park Bike Day on Saturday, June 13, 2026 from 11:00am–2:00pm, and see firsthand how these bike donations transform lives across Milwaukee. It is one of our favorite events of the year, and we would love to see you there. Every bike is carefully inspected for safety by the teams at Rebel Converting, the Wisconsin Bike Fed, DreamBikes, and Working Bikes—ensuring each one is ready to ride when it’s handed off to a new owner at our bike giveaway on June 13.
Thank you to every single person who donated a bike, volunteered their time, or simply cheered us on. And a special thank you to Lake Express Ferry for making this event possible year after year. Together, we are keeping Milwaukee moving.
Come celebrate with us!
Kosciuszko Park Bike Day
Saturday, June 13, 2026 · 11:00am – 2:00pm
Kosciuszko Park, Milwaukee, WI
A Morning I Won't Forget: Reflections on Our 16th Annual Bike Drive
Every year, I wonder if we can top the last one. Every year, Milwaukee proves me wrong in the best possible way.
On Friday, April 24th, I stood at the lakefront and watched our community show up, bike after bike, donor after donor, from 8:00 in the morning until noon. As Executive Director of Rebel Reform, I've had the privilege of leading this drive since its early days. But sixteen years in, it still gives me goosebumps.
What I Saw That Morning
People came from all over. Young families. Retirees pulling bikes out of minivans. Neighbors who'd clearly dusted something off from the back of a garage. Each one of them made a choice a small one, maybe, in their day that will make an enormous difference in a child's life.
Lake Express Ferry, our incredible longtime partner, once again offered round-trip tickets aboard their high-speed ferry to Muskegon to the first 500 donors a $195 value per person, and a six-figure contribution to the mission overall. Their generosity is a huge reason this event has grown into what it is today, and I'm grateful for them every single year.
Why This Work Matters to Me
I didn't take this role because it was easy. I took it because I believe deeply that a thriving community is built one intentional act at a time. Through Rebel Reform, we've worked alongside southeastern Wisconsin nonprofits for years, from coordinating millions of face mask donations during the pandemic to putting bikes in the hands of kids who've never owned one.
But I'll be honest with you: the bike drive is my favorite. There's something uniquely joyful about it. A bike represents possibility. Freedom. The kind of childhood memory that sticks with you for life. When I think about a child riding one of these donated bikes through their neighborhood for the first time, I remember exactly why I do this work.
Come See It for Yourself
If you've never attended a Rebel Reform event, I'd love for you to join us this summer. On Saturday, June 14, 2026, from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM, we'll be at Kosciuszko Park Bike Day distributing hundreds of refurbished bikes directly to Milwaukee youth and their families. Come witness what this community is capable of. I promise it will move you.
From the Bottom of My Heart
To everyone who donated a bike, gave their time, or simply spread the word, thank you. You are the reason Rebel Reform exists and the reason events like this keep growing.
And to the team at Lake Express Ferry: your partnership means more than you know.
Milwaukee, you never let me down. See you in June.
— Loretta Kryshak, Executive Director, Rebel Reform
Celebrating Loretta Kryshak: A Visionary Leader Driving Positive Change in Milwaukee
In the heart of southeastern Wisconsin, Loretta Kryshak stands as a beacon of compassion and innovation, channeling her extensive expertise into transformative community initiatives. As the Executive Director of Rebel Reform—the dynamic social outreach branch of Rebel Converting—Loretta has dedicated over a decade to uplifting underserved populations through creative and impactful programs.
With a robust background in corporate management, Loretta brings a unique blend of skills to her philanthropic work. Holding a bachelor’s degree in Finance and Management Information Systems from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, along with an Associate of Arts in Graphic Arts from Milwaukee Area Technical College—where she earned Dean’s Honor Roll distinctions at both—she has also achieved certifications as a Certified Netware Administrator (CNA) and Certified Netware Engineer (CNE). Her proficiency spans information technology, financial strategy, management information systems, and graphic design, allowing her to approach community challenges with both analytical precision and artistic flair. Beyond her professional prowess, Loretta is an avid photographer and global traveler, drawing inspiration from diverse cultures to fuel her humanitarian efforts.
Under Loretta's leadership, Rebel Reform has become synonymous with "Rebels With A Cause," a rallying cry for supporting vital nonprofits through donations, volunteerism, and awareness campaigns. Highlights of her achievements include:
Spearheading the distribution of over 4 million facemasks via the #MaskUpMKE initiative, in partnership with organizations like United Way, Just One More Ministry, and Habitat for Humanity. This effort earned the Kryshak Family the prestigious Gwen T. Jackson Community Service Award from the United Way of Greater Milwaukee & Waukesha County.
Organizing annual bike giveaways, delivering more than 4,000 bicycles and helmets to children in need through collaborations with the 16th Street Community Center—culminating in the successful BIKE DAY REBEL REFORM 2025 event this summer.
Coordinating backpack distributions for homeless families, with over 1,300 packs provided in recent years, alongside support for programs like Shop With A Cop in Ozaukee County.
Funding innovative resources such as portable showers for the homeless and exercise equipment for multiple sclerosis support groups.
Backing a wide array of local causes, including food insecurity efforts with Just One More Ministry, shelter provisions via Mr. Bob's Under the Bridge, and youth development through the YMCA and local sports teams.
This year has been particularly momentous for Loretta and Rebel Reform. In May 2025, she announced a generous matching program, committing up to $50,000 to amplify donations for Just One More Ministry's fight against hunger in Milwaukee. More recently, in August, Loretta shared insights into her family's enduring commitment to philanthropy, highlighting how personal passion translates into community-wide impact.
Loretta's work extends beyond numbers—it's about fostering connections and inspiring change. Whether through women's shelters, fire departments, or social awareness drives, she continues to mobilize resources and people for the greater good. As Rebel Reform explores new avenues to maximize its reach, Loretta remains at the forefront, proving that one dedicated individual can ignite a movement.
Stay tuned for more updates on Loretta's journeys and Rebel Reform's initiatives. For ways to get involved or support these causes, visit Rebel Reform or follow her adventures in photography and travel. Together, we can be rebels with a cause!
Rebel Converting Nominated for 2025 BizTimes Nonprofit Excellence Award
Loretta Kryshak and Rebel Reform Play Major Role
Rebel Converting, a Milwaukee-based nonprofit dedicated to empowering communities through education and advocacy, is thrilled to announce its selection as a finalist in the Corporate Citizen of the Year – Community Catalyst category for the 2025 BizTimes Nonprofit Excellence Awards. This prestigious recognition celebrates the organization’s transformative work in fostering community engagement and driving meaningful change across the region.
Under the visionary leadership of Loretta Kryshak, Executive Director of Rebel Reform, (the social outreach arm of Rebel Converting) the organization has become a beacon of hope and opportunity in Milwaukee. Loretta’s dedication to addressing systemic inequities and empowering individuals has been instrumental in shaping Rebel Reform’s mission. Her leadership has guided the nonprofit to implement innovative programs, including skill-building workshops, youth mentorship, and community-driven initiatives that tackle pressing challenges and promote resilience.
“We are deeply honored to be recognized as a finalist for this award,” said Loretta Kryshak. “This acknowledgment reflects the tireless efforts of our team, volunteers, and community partners who share our vision of creating a more equitable and vibrant Milwaukee. We remain committed to catalyzing meaningful change and uplifting those we serve.”
The BizTimes Nonprofit Excellence Awards celebrate organizations and leaders who demonstrate outstanding commitment to community betterment. Rebel Reform’s nomination highlights its impactful programs that empower countless individuals by providing tools for growth and self-sufficiency. From fostering youth development to advocating for systemic change, Rebel Reform has become a catalyst for positive transformation in Milwaukee.
The winners of the 2025 BizTimes Nonprofit Excellence Awards will be announced at an awards event on Thursday, July 24, 2025, at the Italian Community Center, located at 631 E. Chicago St., Milwaukee, from 2:30 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Rebel Reform is proud to stand among other exceptional finalists and looks forward to continuing its mission of creating opportunities and fostering resilience in the community.
For more information about Rebel Reform, its programs, or to get involved, visit rebelreform.org or contact Loretta Kryshak.
About Rebel Reform
Rebel Reform is a Milwaukee-based nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering individuals and communities through education, advocacy, and collaborative initiatives. By addressing systemic inequities and creating opportunities for growth, Rebel Reform strives to build a more equitable and vibrant future for all.
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.
Capturing Life’s Stories: Loretta Kryshak’s Lens for Social Good
Introduction to Loretta Kryshak’s Vision
In a world filled with fleeting moments, Loretta Kryshak’s lens for social good captures stories that resonate deeply. As an award-winning photographer, philanthropist, and community leader in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Kryshak transforms the ordinary into the extraordinary through her black-and-white photography. Her ability to find beauty in the mundane—evident in her Monochrome Awards honorable mention for a poignant pandemic-era theater seats photograph—reflects a philosophy that inspires others to see beyond the surface. Coupled with her global travels across all seven continents and her humanitarian work through Rebel Reform, Kryshak’s photography amplifies the narratives of underserved communities, blending art with purpose.
A Photographer’s Journey Across Seven Continents
Loretta Kryshak’s photography is shaped by her extraordinary experiences exploring every continent, from the icy expanses of Antarctica to the vibrant cultures of Africa and Asia. These travels, often shared with her family, have honed her ability to capture authentic human stories. Whether photographing a bustling market in South America or a quiet moment in an Australian outback, Kryshak’s lens for social good reveals the universal threads that connect us. Her global perspective informs her work, allowing her to highlight the beauty in everyday life and share it with audiences worldwide.
Her philosophy of finding inspiration in the mundane drives her creative process. As she once shared, “Look for the positives in every situation and inspire others to look beyond the obvious.” This mindset is evident in her black-and-white photography, where she transforms simple scenes—like empty theater seats during the COVID-19 pandemic—into powerful narratives of resilience and hope. Her Monochrome Awards honorable mention for this photograph underscores her skill in using minimalism to evoke profound emotions, a hallmark of her storytelling.
Loretta Kryshak’s Lens for Social Good: Amplifying Community Narratives
Kryshak’s photography is more than art—it’s a vehicle for social impact. As the Executive Director of Rebel Reform, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting underserved communities in southeastern Wisconsin, she uses her visual storytelling to shine a light on those often overlooked. Her work with initiatives like MaskUpMKE, which distributed over 4 million face masks during the pandemic, demonstrates her commitment to community welfare. Through her lens, Kryshak captures the faces and stories of healthcare workers, volunteers, and families, giving visibility to their struggles and triumphs.
Her photography serves as a bridge between her global experiences and local impact. For example, her collaboration with Just One More Ministry, which raised $50,000 to support malnourished children, is complemented by images that humanize the cause. By sharing these stories on platforms like social media, Kryshak’s lens for social good amplifies the reach of her nonprofit’s mission, inspiring action and fostering community connection. Her work encourages viewers to see the world through a lens of compassion, aligning her art with her humanitarian goals.
The Power of Black-and-White Photography
Kryshak’s award-winning black-and-white photography is a testament to her ability to distill complex emotions into simple, striking images. Her pandemic-era theater seats photograph, honored by the Monochrome Awards, captures the eerie stillness of a world paused by crisis. The absence of color in her work strips away distractions, focusing attention on texture, contrast, and emotion. This minimalist approach mirrors her philosophy of finding beauty in the everyday, whether it’s a weathered face in a remote village or an empty urban landscape.
Her technical skill, honed through an associate degree in graphic design and years of practice, allows her to create images that resonate universally. By emphasizing form and feeling over color, Kryshak’s lens for social good invites viewers to engage with the deeper stories behind her subjects. Her photographs are not just art—they are calls to action, urging audiences to consider the lives and challenges of those depicted.
Inspiring Others to Look Beyond the Obvious
Kryshak’s philosophy extends beyond her own work, encouraging aspiring photographers and community members to find inspiration in their surroundings. Through workshops, social media, and community events, she shares her approach to storytelling, urging others to “look beyond the obvious” and capture the essence of their subjects. Her global travels inform this message, as she draws parallels between the diverse communities she’s encountered and the local challenges in Milwaukee.
Her humanitarian efforts, such as providing 1,300 backpacks for the homeless or distributing 4,000 bicycles to underserved children, are often accompanied by photographic documentation that tells the recipients’ stories. These images, shared through Rebel Reform’s platforms, inspire others to contribute to social good. Kryshak’s lens for social good thus becomes a catalyst for collective action, proving that art can drive meaningful change.
Conclusion: A Legacy of Art and Impact
Loretta Kryshak’s photography is a powerful testament to the intersection of art and social good. Her award-winning black-and-white work, shaped by her travels across seven continents, captures the beauty in the mundane and amplifies the voices of underserved communities. Through her lens for social good, Kryshak not only creates stunning visuals but also fosters compassion and action. Her work with Rebel Reform and initiatives like MaskUpMKE demonstrates how photography can transcend art, becoming a tool for advocacy and connection.
For those inspired to follow in her footsteps, Kryshak’s message is clear: find the extraordinary in the ordinary, and use your talents to uplift others. Her legacy is a reminder that a single photograph, like a single act of kindness, can ripple across communities, creating lasting impact.
Rebel Reform and Rebel Converting to Play Major Role in 2025 Kosciusko Park Bike Day Donating Hundreds of Bikes and Leading Community Efforts
Milwaukee WI, May 29, 2025 – Loretta Kryshak, Executive Director of Rebel Reform, is proud to announce that Rebel Reform will once again be a cornerstone of the 2025 Kosciusko Park Bike Day continuing its longstanding commitment to providing children in need with bicycles, helmets, and locks. This annual event, dedicated to promoting healthy, active lifestyles, relies heavily on Rebel Reform’s substantial contributions and hands-on involvement.
Rebel Reform will donate hundreds of gently used bicycles to the 2025 Bike Day, ensuring that every child receives a safe and reliable bike. To facilitate this effort, the company provides a truck—and often funds a second truck—to collect and store the bikes for over two months leading up to the event. Rebel Reform employees play a critical role in loading and organizing the bicycles, ensuring smooth logistics throughout the process.
In preparation for the giveaway, Rebel Reform hosts its popular Mechanic Night at its factory, where local bike shop mechanics volunteer to repair and refurbish the donated bikes. Rebel Reform supports these efforts by providing food and refreshments, including beer, fostering a collaborative and community-driven atmosphere.
On the day of the Bike Giveaway, approximately 40 Rebel Reform employees volunteer to transport the repaired bikes, helmets, and locks to the event site at Kosciusko Park. They set up tables, distribute water, and personally fit each child for a bike, ensuring a proper and safe fit. Rebel Reform also purchases helmets and locks for every child, with staff taking the time to adjust each helmet and demonstrate how to use the locks. At the event’s conclusion, Rebel Reform employees pack up all materials, leaving the park clean and ready for future community use.
“We are thrilled to support the Kosciusko Park Bike Day and make a meaningful impact in our community,” said Loretta Kryshak. “Our team at Rebel Reform is dedicated to ensuring every child leaves with a bike, a helmet, and the confidence to ride safely. This event is a testament to the power of community collaboration, and we’re proud to play such a significant role.”
The Kosciusko Park Bike Day will take place on June 14th. For more information about the event or Rebel Reform’s contributions, please go to rebelreform.org.
Loretta Kryshak: A Journey of Impact and Inspiration
Loretta Kryshak serves as the Executive Director of Rebel Reform, the social outreach arm of Rebel Converting, a Milwaukee-based manufacturer of hospital-grade disinfectant wipes. For over a decade, Loretta has spearheaded initiatives to support nonprofits and address pressing community needs in southeastern Wisconsin. Rebel Reform’s mission is to strengthen and sustain vulnerable populations through strategic partnerships and impactful charitable endeavors.
Key achievements include:
Leading Rebel Reform: Transforming Communities in Southeastern Wisconsin
Loretta Kryshak serves as the Executive Director of Rebel Reform, the social outreach arm of Rebel Converting, a Milwaukee-based manufacturer of hospital-grade disinfectant wipes. For over a decade, Loretta has spearheaded initiatives to support nonprofits and address pressing community needs in southeastern Wisconsin. Rebel Reform’s mission is to strengthen and sustain vulnerable populations through strategic partnerships and impactful charitable endeavors.
Key achievements include:
#MaskUpMKE and #MaskUpRacine: Co-founded by Loretta, these campaigns distributed over 4 million face masks during the COVID-19 pandemic, collaborating with organizations like the Medical College of Wisconsin, United Way, and Milwaukee Public Transit. The initiatives promoted mask-wearing to curb the virus’s spread, earning the Kryshak family the Gwen T. Jackson Community Service Award from United Way of Greater Milwaukee and Waukesha County. In 2021, Loretta Kryshak honored a Kenosha teenager, Srisupraja Kandrakota, for crafting 10,000 masks, showcasing her commitment to inspiring youth leadership.
Support for Homelessness and Food Insecurity: Loretta led efforts to distribute 1,300 backpacks to homeless individuals and families and partnered with Just One More Ministry to raise over $50,000 to feed malnourished children in Milwaukee. Rebel Reform also renovated a 24,000-square-foot warehouse for the ministry, enhancing their capacity to serve the community.
Community Empowerment: From providing 4,000 bicycles to underserved children through the 16th Street Community Center to supporting Shop With A Cop programs, Loretta’s work focuses on direct, tangible impact.
Rebel Reform continues to seek collaborative opportunities with nonprofits, ensuring resources like goods, services, and capital are allocated effectively to maximize community benefit.
Capturing the World Through Photography
An avid photographer, Loretta Kryshak’s black-and-white photography has garnered international recognition. Her work, often inspired by her global travels, captures the beauty in everyday moments and tells compelling stories. In 2021, her photograph “Untitled,” depicting empty theater seats during the pandemic, received an honorable mention at the Monochrome Awards, highlighting the cultural impact of COVID-19.
Loretta’s philosophy—“I see photos everywhere I go”—drives her to find inspiration in both the striking and the mundane. Her portfolio, showcased on platforms like LensCulture, reflects her travels across all seven continents, from Southeast Asia to Africa. She aims to encourage viewers to look beyond the obvious and find inspiration in their surroundings.
Philanthropy Rooted in Family and Community
Loretta’s philanthropic spirit is a family affair. Alongside her husband, Mike, and their children, Thaddeus and Violet, she infuses Rebel Converting with a commitment to civic responsibility. The family’s efforts during the COVID-19 crisis, including pivoting production to create mask kits from melt-blown polypropylene, demonstrate their innovative approach to community support. Their work with #MaskUpMKE not only provided essential resources but also sparked a citywide movement for public health.
Beyond Rebel Reform, Loretta is a member of the Junior Women’s Club of Mequon, dedicated to community service. Her travels and homeschooling experiences with her children in countries like China, Thailand, and New Zealand have shaped her global perspective on giving back.
A Multifaceted Leader with a Strong Foundation
Loretta’s diverse expertise underpins her success. She holds two bachelor’s degrees from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee in Finance and Management Information Systems, where she made the Dean’s Honor List. She also earned an Associate’s Degree in Graphic Design from Milwaukee Area Technical College and certifications as a Certified Network Administrator (CNA) and Certified Network Engineer (CNE). Her corporate background as a consultant, project manager, and systems analyst equips her to manage complex initiatives at Rebel Reform with precision and creativity.
Looking Ahead: A Commitment to Impact
As Loretta continues to lead Rebel Reform, her focus remains on addressing evolving community needs, from public health to social justice. Her photography will continue to document the human experience, while her travels inspire new ways to connect and uplift. Whether through donating masks, renovating community spaces, or capturing poignant moments, Loretta Kryshak’s work embodies a relentless drive to make a difference.
To learn more about Loretta’s initiatives, visit Rebel Reform or explore her photography on LensCulture. Follow her journey on Twitter and Facebook.
Last updated: May 17, 2025