For nearly 50 years, the property at 2700 W. Chicago Boulevard in Detroit’s Dexter–Linwood neighborhood has remained vacant — a visible reminder of decades of disinvestment that left many communities without the gathering spaces and resources they deserve.

Yet the surrounding neighborhood has never lost its spirit.

Through the leadership of W.I.S.E. Partnership, this long-barren property is now being transformed into the WISE Central Hub — a vibrant destination where youth programs, arts and culture, urban agriculture, and community events will bring residents together in a space designed for opportunity, creativity, and connection.

The land is secured. The vision is clear. The community is ready.

Members of the WISE Giving Society have the opportunity to help transform land that has stood empty for decades into a place that will serve Detroit families for generations to come.

When you join the WISE Giving Society, your support is not simply a donation. It is an investment in a neighborhood, in young people, and in a vision for community-led revitalization.

WISE Giving Society Leadership Circles

Members of the WISE Giving Society are helping build the physical and cultural foundation of the WISE Central Hub — a transformative community space being developed by W.I.S.E. Partnership in Detroit’s historic Dexter–Linwood neighborhood.

Each level of giving helps bring a meaningful part of this vision to life.

The WISE Legacy Circle

$250,000+

Legacy Circle members help create the largest and most lasting elements of the WISE Central Hub — spaces that will serve Detroit families for generations.

These leadership gifts support major community infrastructure including:

• Echoes of the Community Monument honoring neighborhood stories and resilience
• The Destination Plaza, a welcoming gathering space for events and celebrations
• Market & Café expansion, increasing food access and community entrepreneurship
• Cultural Arts Center development, providing space for youth creativity, performance, and cultural programming

Recognition may include:

• Naming opportunities
• Monument inscription
• Private donor reception at the WISE Central Hub
• Featured recognition in the campaign film and donor materials

The Builder Circle

$100,000 – $249,999

Builder Circle donors help create the public spaces where community life unfolds every day.

These investments support:

• Solar-powered community bench stations providing light, seating, and device charging
• Storytelling stations for the Echoes of the Community experience
• Performance lawn for concerts, youth showcases, and cultural events
• Urban agriculture infrastructure that supports food access and youth learning

Recognition includes:

• Plaque recognition on site
• VIP invitations to WISE events
• Private tours of the WISE Central Hub development

The Community Catalyst Circle

$50,000 – $99,999

Catalyst Circle members power the programs that strengthen people and community connections.

Their investments support:

• The Just Speak Center for Trauma, promoting healing and youth expression
• Community Solutions Breakfast, bringing leaders and residents together to address neighborhood challenges
• Youth workforce training equipment, helping young people build real skills and opportunity

Recognition includes:

• Recognition on the WISE website
• Inclusion on the WISE donor wall

The Visionary Circle

$25,000 – $49,999

Visionary Circle donors help activate the WISE Central Hub and ensure the space continues to serve the community with meaningful programs and care.

These gifts support:

• Community Bench upkeep, providing access to essential items for neighbors in need
• Youth entrepreneurship initiatives, helping young people explore innovation and leadership
• Arts and cultural programming, celebrating creativity and community pride
• Community events and grounds stewardship, ensuring the space remains welcoming and vibrant

Recognition includes:

• Campaign recognition
• Listing in the WISE annual report

Join the WISE Giving Society

Turning 50 Years of Vacancy Into Opportunity