“I would encourage someone to apply to Challenge Detroit because of the various opportunities Challenge Detroit has to offer. From making 30 new friends to partnering alongside local nonprofits, Challenge Detroit is great for anyone looking for a new adventure!” – Erika Law
City Institute learning journey – E. Warren Corridor
Detroit on a Deeper Level
Throughout my year at Challenge Detroit, I have felt very immersed in the culture of Detroit. It’s been great to visit, volunteer, and explore Detroit on a deeper level. We’ve had amazing opportunities to explore and tour many businesses, meet with many small business owners, and work closely with a variety of people from growing and thriving companies and organizations.
At the beginning of the program in September 2024, we had an amazing opportunity to take a learning journey with City Institute and view various businesses, organizations, and places in Detroit. The one that I still think about today is the E. Warren Corridor. This spot features various growing and upcoming businesses, restaurants, and coffee shops. The efforts that the developers have been making are inspiring to see and know that they are really passionate about the Detroit community and what the neighbors want to see. I love their devotion to Detroit-based owners and people, and the work they put into their businesses.
During our time with City Institute, we were also given very informative sessions about the different neighborhoods of Detroit and the history and culture of each area. It was a great opportunity to learn about the history of Detroit that many may be unaware of. I would highly recommend that everyone take a tour with City Institute. There are so many pockets of Detroit to be explored and treasured by all.
At my favorite place, the bookstore!
ABOUT: Hi! I’m Erika Law. I am a marketing associate at my host company Brooks Kushman. I currently live in Chesterfield Township in Macomb County. I graduated from Oakland University in 2023 with a degree in Communication & Advertising. Some of my hobbies include reading, painting, and traveling with my friends. I am also an avid watcher of reality competition shows like Big Brother, The Challenge, and Survivor.