A Place to Be

This episode of Milwaukee’s Philanthropic Community explores the power of connection, belonging, and authentic community. Host Jill Economou is joined by Kelly Lemens, founder of A Place to Be, a spirituality center dedicated to creating welcoming spaces where people can gather for fellowship, meaningful conversations, personal growth, and fun.

Kelly shares her personal journey of overcoming rejection, isolation, and the search for belonging, and how those experiences inspired her vision for A Place to Be. She discusses the importance of creating safe, inclusive environments where people can show up as their authentic selves, build genuine relationships, and find support through life's challenges. The conversation highlights how meaningful connection goes beyond simply being around others and instead focuses on creating spaces where individuals feel seen, heard, valued, and accepted.

Listeners will learn about the organization's diverse offerings, including book studies, Bible studies, art nights, drumming circles, game nights, potlucks, and virtual programming that connects participants from across the country. Kelly also discusses how spirituality can be expressed through everyday relationships and activities, the importance of accessibility and inclusivity, and why reducing barriers to participation is central to the organization's mission.

Episode Highlights:

1:03 | Introduction to A Place to Be and its mission of connection and belonging
2:30 | Kelly's personal story and the experiences that inspired the organization
3:57 | Creating a safe space where people can simply be themselves
4:39 | The impact of isolation and the importance of community connection
5:29 | Why being surrounded by people doesn't always eliminate loneliness
6:20 | What it means to be an authentic community
7:00 | Supporting members through life's challenges and changing needs
8:28 | What attracts people to A Place to Be
9:09 | Creating safe spaces for difficult conversations about world events
10:02 | Understanding spirituality beyond traditional religious frameworks
11:29 | Inclusive approaches to faith, spirituality, and personal beliefs
12:24 | Partnerships with faith communities and local organizations
14:50 | Programs that bring people together through learning, creativity, and fun
15:18 | Popular book studies and opportunities for deeper discussion
15:18 | How art nights help participants discover creativity and confidence
16:10 | The contemplative practice and community experience of drumming circles
18:43 | Social activities, potlucks, game nights, and community-building opportunities
19:20 | How virtual programming connects participants across the country
20:42 | Building meaningful relationships and vulnerability through online communities
22:04 | Ensuring financial barriers never prevent participation
23:47 | The organization's annual fundraiser and celebration of local artists
24:51 | Ways community members can get involved, volunteer, and participate
25:34 | The importance of simply showing up and making connections

A PLACE TO BE

A Place to Be is a nonprofit spirituality center that creates welcoming, inclusive spaces for people seeking deeper connection, belonging, and purpose. Through book studies, discussion groups, art experiences, drumming circles, social gatherings, spiritual exploration, and community events, the organization helps individuals build meaningful relationships while fostering personal growth and authentic community. With both in-person and virtual programming, A Place to Be works to reduce barriers and ensure everyone has access to opportunities for connection, fellowship, and support.

Website: https://www.aplacetobesc.org/

ELLENBECKER INVESTMENT GROUP

Presenter of the MPC Podcast. Ellenbecker Investment Group (EIG), a registered investment advisor, provides comprehensive financial planning and fiduciary wealth management for individuals, families, businesses, and charitable foundations.

Website: https://www.ellenbecker.com

This podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be considered legal, tax, or financial advice. Guest opinions represent the views of the individuals speaking, and references to companies or organizations do not imply endorsement by Ellenbecker Investment Group.