Hudson-Webber Foundation Board of Trustees has allocated $2.6 million in new grants to ten local nonprofit organizations, aiming to boost community-focused initiatives in Detroit. These grants are directed towards enhancing access to public spaces, increasing engagement with the arts, and expanding economic opportunities for Detroit residents.
The grants have been awarded to Belle Isle Conservancy, CHN Housing Partners, Children’s Foundation, Detroit Cultural Center Initiative, Detroit Sound Conservancy, Down Payment Assistance Program, Joe Louis Greenway Partnership, Michigan Future, Inc., Michigan’s Thanksgiving Parade, and the Museum of Contemporary Art Detroit. These organizations are known for their dedication to fostering community development and addressing the diverse needs of Detroit’s residents.
Donald Rencher, president and CEO of the Hudson-Webber Foundation, emphasized the Foundation’s commitment to positive change, stating, “The Hudson-Webber Foundation is deeply honored to support these exceptional partners, who are leading impactful projects that directly benefit our community. Our investment in these organizations underscores our unwavering commitment to driving positive change in Detroit. These organizations embody the very best of Detroit, each demonstrating a steadfast dedication to enhancing the lives of our residents. By collaborating with these organizations, we are investing in initiatives that address critical needs, foster community development and promote a growing and inclusive Detroit.”
One notable grant is the $405,000 awarded to The Parade Company to support America’s Thanksgiving Parade. This event, a cherished Detroit tradition dating back to 1924, will benefit from this investment, enhancing its role as a symbol of the city’s enduring spirit and festive cheer.
Other significant grants include:
- $100,000 to the Museum of Contemporary Art Detroit (MOCAD) to increase engagement with Detroit’s diverse population, predominantly the BIPOC community. This support aims to extend MOCAD’s community involvement through targeted outreach programs and enhance their educational offerings.
- $100,000 to the Detroit Sound Conservancy (DSC) to support the acquisition, planning, and development of the lots adjacent to The Blue Bird Inn, transforming it into a community space for recreation and gatherings.
- $300,000 to the Belle Isle Conservancy (BIC) to uplift Belle Isle Park as a dynamic center of community life and economic activity, contributing to Detroit’s broader economic landscape.
- $600,000 to the Joe Louis Greenway Partnership to support general operations and advance its vision of reunifying Detroit’s diverse communities.
- $500,000 to the City of Detroit for the Down Payment Assistance Program (DPA), offering affordable homeownership opportunities to low- and moderate-income residents, significantly reducing their monthly housing expenses.
Additionally, the Board of Trustees has approved a $200,000 program grant to Midtown Detroit Inc. to support the Detroit Cultural Center Association (DCCA) – Start-Up Support, and $200,000 over two years to CHN Housing Partners to support the Detroit Housing Network’s single-family housing strategy.
Michigan Future, Inc. received $250,000 to support general operations, bolstering their research, communications, and advocacy efforts, while the Children’s Foundation was awarded $25,000 to support the Michigan Central Station Children’s Endowment.
These grants represent a significant investment in the future of Detroit, reinforcing the Hudson-Webber Foundation’s mission to support initiatives that promote community development and social progress.