Lad Lake

Lad Lake

From MPC: Milwaukee's Philanthropic Community by Ellenbecker Investment Group

May 21, 2026 · 30 min

About this episode

The episode discusses the youth mental health crisis and how Lad Lake supports young people in crisis.

40% of high school students report persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness. For many young people, mental health challenges and academic struggles are deeply connected. On this episode of #MPC, we’re joined by Donelle Hauser, President and CEO of Lad Lake, a Southeast Wisconsin–based organization serving youth and families across the Milwaukee and Waukesha areas. Donelle shares how Lad Lake is helping young people in crisis stabilize, rebuild confidence, and find a new path forward. We explore the growing youth mental health crisis and why early intervention matters more than ever. Donelle offers insight into how emotional and academic challenges often overlap, and how Lad Lake steps in at critical moments to help youth reset their trajectory. Through residential treatment, crisis care, alternative education, mentoring, and in-home therapy, Lad Lake meets young people where they are and surrounds them with the support and relationships they need to heal and grow. LAD LAKE Founded in 1848, Lad Lake is Wisconsin’s oldest children’s charity, dedicated to guiding the growth of youth and families so they can reach their fullest potential. Serving youth across Southeast…

People in this episode

Guest: Donelle Hauser

Topics covered

  • youth mental health
  • crisis intervention
  • education
  • support services
  • family support

Keywords

  • mental health
  • youth support
  • Lad Lake
  • crisis care
  • alternative education
  • residential treatment

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Lad Lake

Places: Southeast Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Waukesha

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