(photo credit: LeoSage)
Outlier Media, a groundbreaking nonprofit newsroom dedicated to serving Detroit residents, announced a $1 million grant from the MacArthur Foundation. This generous investment is part of a $48 million commitment by the foundation to support local news initiatives across the country, and it will fuel Outlier’s continued mission to empower Detroiters through impactful journalism.
The grant enables Outlier to deepen its focus on the needs of Detroit’s diverse communities. “We strive to be careful stewards of this support,” says Sarah Alvarez, Outlier’s founder and editor-in-chief. “Our goal is to create lasting impact in Detroit, inspire other local news organizations, and ultimately build a thriving city where everyone has a voice.”
Founded in 2016, Outlier pioneered a unique approach to local news. Recognizing that communities prosper when their information needs are met, Outlier meticulously identifies gaps in knowledge and tailors its coverage accordingly. This dedication to audience-driven journalism has manifested in innovative projects like:
- In-depth reporting on critical issues: Housing, utilities, transportation, city government, and arts & culture are just some of the areas where Outlier shines a light, ensuring residents have the information they need to navigate daily challenges and hold power structures accountable.
- TXT OUTLIER: This text messaging service empowers Detroiters facing everyday hurdles like evictions, property tax appeals, and utility shut-offs with vital information and direct access to reporters.
- Community-driven tools: The Detroit Development Tracker and Detroit Documenters program are testaments to Outlier’s commitment to citizen journalism. These initiatives equip residents with the resources and skills to document their communities and contribute to a more informed city.
MacArthur’s grant allows Outlier to continue building on these successes while pushing the boundaries of sustainable local news. “This kind of national support is a catalyst,” says Alvarez. “We hope it inspires local donors to join the movement, ensuring that Outlier can serve Detroit for generations to come.”
Outlier’s vision is clear: information is power, and everyone deserves access to it. With MacArthur’s support, and the continued dedication of its community, Outlier is poised to write a vibrant new chapter in Detroit’s story.
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