Community engagement is a cornerstone of Michigan’s development, with numerous organizations and institutions fostering active participation and collaboration to address local needs and drive positive change.
Michigan Faith in Action
Michigan Faith in Action unites people of faith, institutions, and organizations to tackle the root causes of poverty, violence, and division. Their ‘Invest in MI Kids’ initiative aims to ensure every child in Michigan has access to safe, high-quality education and the resources necessary to thrive. They also encourage residents to share personal stories related to housing insecurity, healthcare access, food insecurity, and other critical issues, using these narratives to inform and shape their advocacy efforts. Learn more
Michigan State University’s Center for Community and Economic Development
Dr. Kevin Brooks, the Community Engagement Specialist at Michigan State University’s Center for Community and Economic Development, leads proactive strategies in the Greater Lansing region. His work focuses on neighborhood, community, and economic development, engaging with various organizations to facilitate community-university partnerships. These collaborations aim to support innovation, generate new knowledge, and provide pathways for educational and career advancement for both MSU faculty and students. Learn more
University of Michigan’s Engaged Learning Office
The University of Michigan’s Engaged Learning Office offers programs like the Civic User Testing Group (CUTgroup) and Alternative Spring Break (ASB). CUTgroup involves students in user testing of public applications to enhance accessibility and usefulness for city residents. ASB provides students with professionally-oriented experiences, allowing them to apply their information skills to support nonprofit, cultural, governmental, and educational institutions. Learn more
Eastern Michigan University’s Engage @ EMU
Eastern Michigan University fosters meaningful collaborations with local, regional, national, and global communities through its Engage @ EMU initiative. By forming mutually beneficial partnerships, the university aims to drive social, economic, and educational progress while enriching the learning experiences of students and faculty. Learn more
Habitat for Humanity Michigan
Habitat for Humanity Michigan offers various opportunities for individuals to contribute to building stronger communities. Volunteers can participate in build sites, serve on committees or boards, work in ReStores, or advocate for affordable housing. These efforts are crucial in creating inclusive and thriving communities across the state. Learn more
These initiatives exemplify the diverse avenues through which Michigan residents can engage with their communities, fostering a culture of collaboration and shared responsibility for the state’s future.