Fellow Betsy Berens volunteers at the 100 Houses community service event in Detroit this fall.
Question: Tell us your favorite way to give back in Detroit.
Answer: One of the most refreshing aspects of Challenge Detroit is the participants’ passion for service within the city. We have an incredible Community Service Team that organizes unique hands-on service opportunities, allowing the fellows to give back beyond our weekly challenges. Last month, I participated in the 100 Houses Project. Over 400 people (including 15 Challenge Detroit fellows) came together on a Saturday morning to board and clean up Detroit’s most dangerous homes. While the experience exposed me to the realities of Detroit’s most dangerous neighborhoods, it also showed the commitment of those who want to move the city forward without leaving life-long Detroiters behind.
Question: What makes Detroit’s giving opportunities unique?
Answer: Giving back is truly embedded in the culture of this city. Since moving to Detroit, I have never had to “search out” unique opportunities to serve the community. In fact, it’s kind of difficult to avoid it! When I stroll out of my apartment in the morning, I pass by the Toys for Tots collection organized by my apartment building. My host company, Marketing Associates, supports local organizations and worthy causes and encourages employees to engage in service projects. Our Friday Challenges introduce us to non-profit organizations that are addressing Detroit’s most pressing issues and open up opportunities for service projects. There are endless opportunities to understand the issues in the city and engage with organizations that are working to fix these issues.
Question: What else would you like to share about giving in Detroit?
Answer: I am very impressed by the socially minded businesses in this city. There is no denying a culture of philanthropy here, and it extends from the small start-up shops to the large corporations. I feel very lucky to have found both a program and employer that invest so heavily in giving back to the community.
To learn more about how are fellows are giving in the city, click here!
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Contributed by Fellow Betsy Berens