Even as residents witness growth and development in Detroit’s most visible new retail, transportation and real estate initiatives, many wonder what’s being planned in their corner of the city. Whether on the east or west side, it’s a question some long-time Detroiters have asked for years.

A new community initiative is launching a dialogue that invites residents to ponder and debate the answer. “Who Decides the Future of Each Detroit Neighborhood?” is the first topic in a series hosted by Building the Engine of Community Development in Detroit (BECDD), from 4:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., Wednesday, June 7 at Java House, 17336 Lahser Road.

Moderated by Donna Murray-Brown, president and CEO of the Michigan Nonprofit Association, “Real Change, Real Talk: Food, Drink, and Conversation about Detroit’s Neighborhoods” will solicit honest, meaningful feedback from participants. The dialogue is open to the public, but space is limited and guests must RSVP to lboone.becdd@gmail.com or by calling (313) 818-3528.

Held in partnership with CDAD, Detroit Center for Design Technology, Michigan Nonprofit Association and TheHUB, the series kicks off in District 1 and will move to each Detroit district, with the goal of creating discourse designed to raise community consciousness.

Founded by long-time Detroit organizer Maggie DeSantis, BECDD’s objective is to build the elements of a strong community development system to reinvent and strengthen all the city’s neighborhoods. “Real Change, Real Talk: Food, Drink, and Conversation about Detroit’s Neighborhoods” is scheduled to continue through 2017.

Editor’s Note:  Although this event is open to all, guests must RSVP to lboone.becdd@gmail.com or by calling (313) 818-3528.

  Building the Engine of Community Development in Detroit, CDAD, Detroit Center for Design Technology, Donna Murray-Brown, Michigan Nonprofit Association, Real Change, Real Talk, TheHUB