Written by City Institute’s founder Jeanette Pierce, this blog answers frequently asked questions and puts things in context so that city residents, stakeholders, and visitors will have a better understanding of Detroit’s assets, history, and challenges. Check out City Institute’s services for an even deeper dive into these topics HERE.
Jeanette Pierce is a lifelong Detroit resident who loves learning and then sharing what she learns with others. She is a data nerd who loves public speaking and challenging prevailing narratives about Detroit. Learn more about her here.
Lessons We Took Home from Pittsburgh That Any City Can Learn From
After leading a City to City Learning Journey in Pittsburgh with civic, business, philanthropic, nonprofit, and higher education leaders from Detroit, we came home with fresh perspectives on collaboration, relationship-building, and how cities learn from one another. Read the lessons we're carrying forward—and why the best ideas don't stay in one city.
Parks, Public Spaces, and Philanthropy: A Detroit Learning Journey with Pittsburgh Leaders
We welcomed philanthropic leaders and nonprofit partners from Pittsburgh for a two-day Learning Journey exploring how Detroit's parks, public spaces, and community development initiatives are creating stronger neighborhoods and inspiring new ideas to take back home.
When John Legend Came to Detroit to Learn About Community Ownership
We had the opportunity to host award-winning musician John Legend, who visited Detroit with the Brookings Institution as part of a Learning Journey focused on community land ownership and neighborhood-driven development.