I have now been a part of 6 incredible challenges with Challenge Detroit focusing on major topics concerning the city of Detroit. Among these challenges, a have highlighted a few that I really enjoyed working on.

With the United Way of Southeastern Michigan, we researched the issue of food access in Detroit creating projects that offer solutions to enhance food access while creating jobs in food distribution industry. Collaborating with Excellent Schools Detroit, we tackled the issue of enrollment in Detroit and organized a forum involving teachers, parents, administrators and community members to discuss how to streamline the school enrollment process. Recently we worked with the Detroit Economic Development Corporation and the University Detroit Mercy architecture students in planning the launch event for the Livernois Community Storefront, a hub connecting local businesses to the Livernois community, bringing awareness to all of the happenings around this neighborhood. I was on the design team helping create the image and branding of this venue and thoroughly enjoyed it. While working on this challenge I had the opportunity to walk around the streets of Livernois and see what they had to offer. Dining at delicious restaurants, such as the oldest jazz bar in the world Baker’s Keyboard Lounge, Livernois was definitely a tummy full. When you make it out there, stop by 1917 American Bistro (#1 on Urbanspoon) and you are sure to be greeted by Don, the owner and chef, he’s always hanging out with the customers. Livernois also have cool local shops like Flagship Boutique selling street wear created local brands. After taking my time to get familiar with the neighborhood, I can gladly say I am excited to celebrate the launch the Livernois Community Storefront in May. Please follow the Livernois Community Storefront and join us for the launch event in May!