Tell us about some of your favorite ways to experience Detroit outside of work and Challenge Detroit.

I’ve had a great time exploring Detroit through volunteering with a number of different organizations. This has taken me all over the city to different venues, and I’ve met a number of great people through these experiences. One of the first organizations I volunteered with was Michigan Historic Preservation Network, for their annual dinner hosted at Bank Suey in Hamtramck. Bank Suey is now one of my frequent spots to check out, they are constantly hosting events and pop-ups and I’m always interested in watching the progress of the renovation work they are doing to save this historic building.

What have you learned from Challenge Detroit in the past nine months?

I’ve learned so much about Detroit and its neighborhoods, and am so grateful for the opportunity to connect with people who are investing time and talent into amazing projects located all over the 142 square miles of this city. This is a city with a deep and rich history, and throughout the Challenge Detroit experience, I’ve learned that I still have a lot to learn about Detroit and that it’s important to remain open to tough and honest conversations.

Tell us about your host company and your role in the organization.

My host company is Mosher Dolan, they are a high-end residential construction firm, as well as construction advisors for Goldfish Swim School. I currently am a project manager working with the Goldfish Swim Schools. I do everything from coordinating the bid process to secure a General Contractor, to submittal and plan reviews, to final punch lists at the project locations.

What kind of impact do you hope to have with your host company and within the city?

Since my host company is located in Royal Oak, I think there are opportunities to connect people to events and projects that are happening throughout Detroit. I’m working on an impact project through Brick + Beam Detroit, an organization that supports people who are rehabbing homes in the city. I’m working with another fellow to design a physical toolkit to support people as they work on home rehab projects. I’m hopeful it’s a useful tool for people who are both starting the journey as homeowners, but also those who have owned a home for years and just need some tips.

What are you most looking forward to this summer in Detroit?

Spending time at Belle Isle with friends, exploring the many patios around the city, running and biking the Riverfront and Dequindre Cut. Generally, I’m looking forward to playing outside with friends and enjoying the sunshine and warmth while it lasts!

What do you envision for Detroit 10 years from now?

I hope that continued investment in the city leads to equitable neighborhood development. There are a lot of great things currently happening in neighborhoods such as Live6 (Livernois and Six Mile), Jefferson Chalmers, and The Villages/Islandview, and I hope that these efforts continue to expand to more neighborhoods throughout Detroit. I also hope to see the expansion of transit options, and that the opening of the Qline continues to push this conversation forward.

To see more about Nicole’s expriences in Detroit this year check out her spotlight video.