They’re building by branching out.

After two years of mobilizing and organizing for revitalization in the west side’s Livernois Avenue and McNichols (Six Mile) Road district, the Live6 Alliance has entered a national competition.

Representing Detroit in the Partners in Preservation grant contest, Live6 is applying to receive $150,000 that will further its work to build the community’s business and culture. Funds will be used to rehab and build the vacant storefront located at 7540 McNichols into a “tree house” for local entertainment and safe socializing by residents and students. The building, located just up the block from Detroit Sip coffee shop – the neighborhood’s current trophy of transformation and determination – could be Live6’s next success story.

But only if you’ll help.

A campaign of public support decides the winner of Partners in Preservation and ballots must be cast via Twitter and Facebook, using this link.

Up to five votes a day are allowed until the deadline of Oct. 31, 2017. Lauren Hood, co-director of Live6, says every single one counts.

“Treehouse provides a low-barrier-to-entry venue where existing residents can commune with visitors and newcomers,” says Hood, “and the only pressure is to make connections. Patrons can expect to see performances by local talent, engage with students and staff from adjacent universities, and learn something about the unique culture of this historic place.”

Apart from adding to the neighborhood’s long history of culture and entertainment, the Treehouse building will advance a mission Live6’s neighbors, business owners and other supporters believe in – busting blight. Filling one more unused space with life and activity is the project’s goal, says Hood.

In addition to voting, Live6 needs support spreading the word about its campaign, through the use of hashtags #TreeHouseLive6 and #VoteYourMainStreet. You can also follow Live6 Detroit social media channels, where updates will be posted.

“We believe in our allies at Live 6,” says Hood. “We believe in Detroit.”

  Lauren Hood, Live6, Live6 Alliance, Partners in Preservation