About us:
Urban Neighborhood Initiatives is a nonprofit organization rooted in Southwest Detroit. Urban Neighborhood Initiatives works with the Springwells neighborhood in Southwest Detroit to build a safe and thriving environments where people want to live, work, and play.
UNI is based in the Springwells area of Southwest Detroit, a 1.3 square mile neighborhood bounded by Fort, Dix and Waterman Streets.
UNI is based in the Springwells area of Southwest Detroit, a 1.3 square mile neighborhood bounded by Fort, Dix and Waterman Streets.
How we came to be:
Urban Neighborhood Initiatives was founded in 1997 originally under the name of, “Neighborhood Centers Incorporated”. UNI's transformation from "Neighborhood Centers Incorporated" and its involvement in addressing the challenges faced by the Southwest neighborhood, particularly high levels of crime and limited opportunities for youth, reflects a strong commitment to community development and improvement.
The transformation of All Saints Neighborhood Church into All Saints Neighborhood Center, as well as the conversion of vacant lots into the Springdale Green Playlot, highlights the organization's dedication to creating safe and engaging spaces for residents, especially youth. The involvement of the community in making the Springdale Green Playlot a reality is a testament to UNI's collaborative and community-driven approach.
UNI's focus on three key areas of work--Youth Development, Education, and Land Use & Economic Development—shows a collaborative approach to addressing the various needs of the community. By offering opportunities for youth and their families, UNI is contributing to the overall well-being and growth of the neighborhood. Youth development programs can provide valuable skills, mentorship, and a sense of purpose for young individuals. Educational initiatives can empower residents with knowledge and tools to improve their quality of education and school systems. Lastly, the emphasis on land use and economic development suggests a commitment to creating sustainable economic opportunities and revitalizing the physical environment in our community.
UNI's work aligns with broader community development principles that prioritize collaboration, inclusivity, and sustainability. By engaging residents, addressing challenges, and providing opportunities, UNI is making a positive impact on the lives of those in the Southwest neighborhood.
The transformation of All Saints Neighborhood Church into All Saints Neighborhood Center, as well as the conversion of vacant lots into the Springdale Green Playlot, highlights the organization's dedication to creating safe and engaging spaces for residents, especially youth. The involvement of the community in making the Springdale Green Playlot a reality is a testament to UNI's collaborative and community-driven approach.
UNI's focus on three key areas of work--Youth Development, Education, and Land Use & Economic Development—shows a collaborative approach to addressing the various needs of the community. By offering opportunities for youth and their families, UNI is contributing to the overall well-being and growth of the neighborhood. Youth development programs can provide valuable skills, mentorship, and a sense of purpose for young individuals. Educational initiatives can empower residents with knowledge and tools to improve their quality of education and school systems. Lastly, the emphasis on land use and economic development suggests a commitment to creating sustainable economic opportunities and revitalizing the physical environment in our community.
UNI's work aligns with broader community development principles that prioritize collaboration, inclusivity, and sustainability. By engaging residents, addressing challenges, and providing opportunities, UNI is making a positive impact on the lives of those in the Southwest neighborhood.