The Hudson-Webber Foundation (HWF) Board of Trustees steps up for the community, announcing a game-changing $2.3 million in new grants to eight local nonprofit organizations. This substantial investment is set to fuel initiatives that enhance community access to Detroit’s vibrant public spaces and bolster statewide policies for inclusive growth, directly benefiting Detroiters in every corner of the city.
The eight organizations selected for these grants are at the forefront of positive community transformation in metro Detroit. The recipients include Black Leaders Detroit, dedicated to supporting Black-owned businesses; the Center for Michigan, a think-and-do tank; Citizens Research Council, known for its nonpartisan policy analysis; Detroit Institute of Arts, a beacon of culture and art; Detroit Justice Center, advocating for justice and equity; Detroit Parks Coalition, enhancing our green spaces; Detroit Riverfront Conservancy, stewarding our iconic riverfront; and the Michigan League for Public Policy, a voice for economic opportunity.
“The Foundation is honored to support these exceptional partners who are at the forefront of impactful projects that directly benefit our community,” said Jennifer Hudson Parke, board chair of the Hudson-Webber Foundation. “These grants not only support the innovative projects addressing the evolving needs of Detroit communities, but they also reinforce our commitment to our foundational key mission areas: Arts & Culture, Built Environment, Community & Economic Development, and Safe & Just Communities.”
This funding, approved at the Trustees’ December 2023 meeting, is a significant boost for these organizations. It enables them to expand and deepen their work in critical areas like arts and culture, community development, and advocating for safe and just communities. Each grant is a testament to the Foundation’s commitment to addressing the evolving needs of Detroit communities and enhancing the impact of its traditional funding strategies.
The grants range in focus and impact:
- Detroit Institute of Arts receives $500,000 for operational support, honoring the long-standing leadership of Eugene and Mary Anne Gargaro.
- Detroit Parks Coalition is granted $200,000 to connect Detroiters with natural areas and parks.
- Detroit Riverfront Conservancy gets $600,000, continuing its work in transforming Detroit’s riverfront.
- Black Leaders Detroit is awarded $100,000 to support financing for Black-owned businesses.
- Detroit Justice Center receives $450,000, aiding its mission to promote economic and racial equity.
Additionally, core policy grants were allocated to the Center for Michigan, Citizens Research Council, and Michigan League for Public Policy, each receiving significant funds to further their missions in public engagement, policy analysis, and promoting economic opportunity.
This decisive action by the HWF Board of Trustees is more than just a financial contribution; it’s a statement of faith in Detroit’s potential and a commitment to its people. It’s about investing in the city’s heartbeat – its communities, parks, arts, and policies – ensuring a brighter, more inclusive future for all Detroiters.
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