Eastside Community Network

The Michigan-based Eastside Community Network (ECN), founded in 1984, develops people, plans, and places for sustainable neighborhood growth on Detroit’s east side. Over the past decade, Eastside Community Network has built a reputation as a leader in the urban climate resilience space — focusing efforts on policy advocacy, infrastructure development, and community education that promotes climate resiliency and equitable climate change strategies in Detroit. One of the main problems they face is flooding. To address this issue, ECN received funding from the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation to collaborate with national partners to develop a resident-driven, expert-informed planning process that provides a comprehensive analysis of specific flooding risks in floodplain neighborhoods. They engage neighborhood leaders and Sustainability Fellows, as well as technical experts, environmental advocates, civic leaders, and local institutions to address sustainability issues.

One outcome of ECN’s flooding analysis is the Hamilton Rainscape Learning Lab, which opened on June 19, 2019. In addition to a rain garden and green space, which counteract the typical urban landscape that blocks the path of runoff after Detroit’s major storm events, the lab offers opportunities to learn about stormwater issues. These learning events are led by teachers from the neighboring school and by ECN staff. The staff includes Donna Givens Davidson, president and CEO; 11 officers and directors; and 29 others. The group also has over 4,000 Facebook followers. Together they and numerous partners coordinate not only climate resiliency programs, but also art therapy, ballroom dancing, and other mental, physical, and spiritual wellness activities. They award grants for resident-identified projects that will increase green transportation and mobility options. They are even turning their headquarters into a climate resilience hub with solar panels, battery storage, and stormwater infrastructure.

For more information:

Detroit’s Strategic Neighborhood Fund plans take shape – Crain’s Detroit Business, October 2020

Eastside residents welcome new community rainscape garden in Chandler Park – Curbed Detroit, June 2019