Program Areas
Detroit is experiencing a “rebirth.” The city is growing its population for the first time since the 1950s. Following its successful emergence from bankruptcy, Detroit focused its efforts on an economic transformation that continues to gain traction. With significant capital investments, rising occupancy rates and steady gains in employment, it is easy to see why Detroit has earned the right to be called “The Comeback City.”
Detroit’s recent growth took root in Midtown and Downtown and is now spreading throughout the city. The current administration’s strategy has been to carefully analyze neighborhoods and select those that display characteristics supporting redevelopment, such as population density and burgeoning commercial districts. Alternative Foundation is interested in working with neighborhoods that face different challenges, particularly low-density population and extensive vacant land. Building on the work of the City and established community organizations, Alternative Foundation intends to support success in Detroit neighborhoods that don’t fit the city’s required population and density levels.
Our efforts cover three intertwined program areas:
Urban Agriculture and Food Systems
We support sustainable food systems focused on raising food that is healthy for humans and animals and does not harm the environment, provides a fair wage to the growers, and supports local communities. We see urban agriculture as a productive use of vacant land, providing healthy food while providing food security for local communities.
Education and Youth Entrepreneurship
We would like to engage and encourage underserved young people by providing them with skills to advance their education and employment options. We are looking to fill the gap between public education and job accessibility through enrichment programs that helps improve individual’s career outlook. One example is a plumbing apprenticeships program, managed by Detroit’s Office of Sustainability in collaboration with Detroit Employment Solutions.
Community Redevelopment
We seek to identify neighborhoods at risk of gentrification and strive to provide a platform for the local community to have a voice during redevelopment planning. We work to empower residents as they work to improve their neighborhoods. We encourage and support sustainable land use focusing on green infrastructure and affordable, energy-efficient housing.