While there is still a lot of work to do, Detroit has come a long way in turning itself around.  It has become the come back kid with new businesses, cleaned up neighborhoods and more. It is all a result of just one thing … the people.

The time is coming when those people, whether individuals, block clubs, churches or community groups, to assemble like superhero blockbusters to show their pride in the city.

Saturday, August 7 will mark the 15^th annual ARISE Detroit! Neighborhoods Day. The city-wide event will feature more than 100 activities and community service projects that show that pride.

Those who want to learn more about the events, volunteer services or register for Neighborhoods Day can go to http://www.arisedetroit.org. The registration fee is $25.

Registration must be completed by July 15, and any event hosted in August counts.

Custom made banners with the names of organizations involved, cleanup bags for blight removal projects, marketing support and other incentives will be waiting for those who register.

Last year in the midst of the pandemic, ARISE Detroit! promoted its “Stay Safe: Create In Your Space” campaign, which had many groups hosting small events in homes, backyards or driveways on Neighborhoods Day.

This year, some groups may still opt to use that approach for their activities. However, Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer’s announcement that state COVID restrictions will be lifted on July 1 clearoing the way for Neighborhoods Day groups to host larger gatherings with vaccinated volunteers.

There will still be some restrictions.

While COVID is being beaten back, the event will stand on the side of caution. The plan Is to follow health and safety protocols, like mask wearing and social distancing, if you have not been vaccinated. Volunteers who are not vaccinated  will be encouraged to get the shot.

“Even during the height of the pandemic, Detroiters still wanted to show their pride and love for their city and the willingness to improve their neighborhoods,” says Luther Keith, ARISE Detroit! executive director. “With the state’s announcement of the easing and lifting of many restrictions, particularly for outdoor events, and with more people getting vaccinated, we expect more Detroiters will want to be part of Neighborhoods Day this year.”

Examples of possible 2021 Neighborhoods Day activities include:

• Blight removal and beautification of homes and businesses
• Homeowner spruce up and beautification projects, such as painting, mowing lawns and planting trees, flowers or shrubs
• Giveaways of school supplies and food
• Front porch, front lawn or backyard parties, barbecues, picnics and celebrations
• Music concerts and festivals
• Children’s sidewalk games, chalk drawing, or other kids’ activities at their homes
• Local artists displaying their paintings, sculptures and other artwork in front of homes and businesses
• Serve A Senior: Young people and others providing a service for senior citizens, such as painting a house, sprucing up a garden, delivering food, etc.
• Social distance bicycle rides

Since Neighborhood Day began in 2007, the ARISE! Detroit has become responsible for:

• 2,500+ community improvement events
• 70,000+ volunteers with partner organizations
• 1,500+ blight removal and beautification projects
• 50+ health fairs
• 200+ concerts, festivals and art fairs
• 200+ back-to-school event and school supply giveaways
• 70+ Adopt-a-School projects

Last year was rough, no one will argue that, but getting back up and showing pride in hard times is what Detroit is all about.

  ARISE Detroit, cleaning up Detroit, Detroit Neighborhoods, Neighborhoods Day, volunteering in Detroit