I can’t believe it is already the last week! There is so much to unpack within the last 2 months from living and working in Detroit. Working at KGD and interacting with other members of the DCERP cohort has truly been such a remarkable experience, and I have learned so much about Detroit and also about community.
My first blog post was focused on what exactly community meant to me, and how I hoped I would help KGD. Through these 9 weeks, the word community has definitely been on the forefront of my mind. I have also learned the importance of food sovereignty within the city, and how it is a much bigger issue than just having access to foods. Food sovereignty is an issue that is rooted within systemic issues, including economic inequality and inadequate urban planning. Urban farms, such as Keep Growing Detroit, have such a big role to play in providing community members access to healthy foods that are also affordable. It has been great to see the impact that KGD has on the community, including their Garden Resources Program which helps support farmers in the area.
Working with my non-profit and living in Detroit has taught me so much, including the importance of listening to the community and stepping out of your shell. I am so thankful for my mentor Tee, the fellow KGD employees, and all of the people in DCERP who made this such an enjoyable summer!
