Nonprofit Journal Project

Nonprofit leaders across southeast Michigan will share stories of nonprofit, government, and philanthropic sectors coming together to think bigger, solve problems, and execute transformative projects.

This series is made possible with the generous support of our partners the Michigan Nonprofit Association, Ralph C. Wilson Jr. Foundation, and Co.act Detroit.

Relationship-centered Brilliant Detroit asks, How can we do better?

By Cindy Eggleton

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Education

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October 5, 2021

"Our country’s educational system was inequitable before, and it still is," says Cindy Eggleton of Brilliant Detroit. "COVID-19 has given us an opportunity to rethink systems, and I’m wondering if we are rethinking enough? As not-for-profits, organizations and people, I take seriously our responsibility to turn this not-so-great thing into an opportunity to look deeply at how systems work in order to better serve kids and families."

A Beautiful Me finds ways to foster self-worth and community connection, especially among girls

By Karen Palka

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General

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September 27, 2021

"If we can get our young women to understand their value and place in the world at elementary and adolescent ages," says Karen Palka, founder & executive director of A Beautiful Me in Port Huron, "they are more likely to take on roles in their adult lives that enhance their communities in some shape, form or fashion.

Youth-centered nonprofits increase support to families, young people and educators across the region

By Jenn McKee

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Education

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September 21, 2021

“When something interrupts your program, you still have to go forward, whether you go around it, above it, through it – whatever you need to do,” Kris Marshall, Winning Futures.

Detroit Heals Detroit. Photo courtesy of Sirrita Darby

Detroit youth help peers heal from trauma, rising amid the pandemic

By Sirrita Darby

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Health

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September 14, 2021

The need for healing continues to grow. The pandemic has negatively affected the communities we serve more than a lot of other communities. The need to combat trauma has been amplified. Yet, the young people here are giving me hope. We're big on "making a way, finding a way." We've been doing this since we started healing together, and we'll continue to.

The Art Experience in Pontiac offers community opportunities to explore, create and heal

By Audra Pieknik

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Arts & Culture

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September 10, 2021

Since the pandemic, so many people have experienced loss, grief, and trauma and the use of art therapy can bring comfort and healing. I believe our organization provides a very accessible way for our community as a whole to work toward mental health and overall well-being.

Ypsilanti farm nurtures returning citizens who are helping to feed neighbors during the pandemic

By Melvin Parson

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Community Development

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September 8, 2021

I think about the criminal justice system, and how unjust it is on many levels. There’s very little opportunity and hope in communities who have been forgotten, or thrown away. There's so much to do, but if we all pick a project, we can change this continued push to incarcerate Black and brown folks.

Sanctum House offers safety and new beginnings to survivors of human trafficking

By Karen Moore

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Health

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September 1, 2021

This is the hardest job I’ve ever had, and I’ve had some big jobs in my life. But being able to walk with these women, and to help them through their dark days is so rewarding. They've got to go through it all to get to the other side, but when they come out, and they know they’ve been kept safe through the process, all of a sudden, you start to see a different look in their eyes.

Amid challenges, the Athletic Factory continues to support student-athletes on and off the court

By Cliff Thomason

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Education

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August 25, 2021

This type of outlet has always been necessary, but I see it now more than ever with our community coming out of strict lockdown. Our youth have had nothing to do outside of video games, and indoor activities, which has hurt their social skills and social circles. These are both paramount for school-age children.

The Anton Art Center works to engage audiences online and in-person as COVID-19 continues

By Phil Gilchrist

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General

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August 21, 2021

I think it’s critical the arts be available for people to engage with and use as a tool to understand, to converse about, and to interpret what's happening in the world.

Vanguard CDC finds new ways to engage Detroiters on community projects during COVID-19

By Pamela Martin-Turner

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Community Development

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August 12, 2021

I’m a tax lawyer by trade, and when I began practicing law years ago, I thought it was what I wanted. Then I got involved in community development and realized what it is to truly love your work.