Urban Neighborhood Initiatives is a nonprofit organization based in southwest Detroit that works within the community to create a safe environment for its residents. It currently focuses on three specific areas: economic development and land use, education, and youth development. With the help of team members and volunteers, UNI has completed five restoration and renovation projects to date. It also is working on building Michigan’s first community-based justice center, known as the Lawndale Center, which will be completed in 2026. UNI also ensures Detroit residents have access to primary and secondary education, as well as post-secondary education, job training opportunities, and leadership programs that can lead to economic stability and growth. In response to COVID-19, UNI is still open to the public. However, there are necessary precautions in place to help keep all visitors and staff members safe. All visitors who wish to come inside any of the organization’s centers must call ahead and are only granted access if they agree to wear a mask, use hand sanitizer, and practice social distancing. UNI also provides masks and hand sanitizer to visitors who need them.
