The Detroit Pistons Foundation in partnership with the Detroit Parks Coalition, Project Play, and The Work Department, and sponsored by the William Davidson Foundation and Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Foundation created the "Let's Play!" learning series in the Fall of 2021.
The first training series consisted of five virtual learning sessions and one in-person session that provided tips, resources, and best practices for nonprofits and grassroots organizations to produce engaging community-driven programming in public spaces. Covered topics included: designing activities, community engagement, fundraising, grant writing, acquiring permits, safety protocols and much more.
Participants also had the opportunity to apply for mini grants offered by the Detroit Pistons Foundation to fund their own public space activation programs. Details on the grant recipients are below.
(Virtual sessions will be recorded and posted here)
Session I - Develop Your Public Space Program: How to Design Activities
Speaker: Rochelle Lento, President, People for Palmer Park
Session II - Develop Your Public Space Program: How to Work with Volunteers and Staff & How to Get the Word Out
Speakers: Yvette Bass-Pullom--Program Director, Chandler Park Conservancy and Ayo Thomas--Engagement Associate, Belle Isle Conservancy
Session III - Ensure a Safe and Secure Space
Speaker: Anthony Benavides -- Director, Clark Park Coalition
Session IV - Permitting and the City of Detroit Parks and Recreation Department
Speaker: Tracey Jackson-- Manager of Operations, City of Detroit Parks and Recreation Department
Session V - Get your Project Funded
Speaker: JJ Velez, Director Public Spaces, Rocket Community Fund and Matthew Schmitt, Program Manager, Michigan Community Resources
In-Person Event - How to Write a Grant: Get One-on-One Training and Advice
Pistons Performance Center, 6201 Second Avenue, Detroit, MI 48202
Grant applications have closed