Program Areas
Supporting Results-Oriented Programs
Detroit is a city with a rich history of innovation, resilience and grit. But, for too long, equitable progress has been uneven, and many residents continue to struggle with issues ranging from affordable housing and quality education to access to healthy food and economic advancement. There are bright spots, and the current City of Detroit administration’s strategy has been to analyze neighborhoods and select those that display characteristics supporting redevelopment, such as population density and burgeoning or revitalized commercial districts. Alternative Foundation is interested in working with organizations operating in neighborhoods that face different challenges, particularly with low-density populations and extensive vacant land. By collaborating with high-impact nonprofits the Alternative Foundation supports success in Detroit’s neighborhoods with grants in:
Urban Agriculture and Food Systems
We support sustainable food systems focused on raising food that is healthy for humans and animals and does not harm the environment, provides a fair wage to the growers, and supports local communities. We see urban agriculture as a productive use of vacant land, providing healthy food while providing food security for local communities.
Youth Employment and Entrepreneurship
We engage and encourage underserved young people by providing them with skills to advance their education and employment options. We are looking to fill the gap between public education and job accessibility through enrichment programs that help improve an individual’s career outlook.
Community Redevelopment
We work to empower residents as they work to improve their neighborhoods. We encourage and support sustainable land use focusing on green infrastructure and affordable, energy-efficient and innovative housing solutions. We generally do not fund brick and mortar locations but may make exceptions where projects meet the community needs for innovative, sustainable housing solutions.