Challenge Detroit's newest class expands to 33 people

Challenge Detroit's second class of fellows is about to make its introduction to the Motor City at the end of this summer.

The nonprofit launched last year as a way to bring more talented young people into Detroit. It pairs them with jobs and providing them with opportunities to volunteer and play in the city. The first class was composed of 27 20-somethings. This year's class has grown to 33 people, an increase of more than 20 percent.

"We had a really successful first year," says Shelley Danner, program director for Challenge Detroit.

Challenge Detroit pairs its fellows with local employers and provides them with a living stipend to find a home in the greater downtown area. It also pairs them with volunteering opportunities. The idea is to plant the seed so they can sink roots in Detroit. This year, the class will spend more time focusing on contributing to a more concentrated number of projects.

"It's about giving them a little bit more of our time and skills," Danner says.

The newest class of Challenge Detroit fellows is set to arrive at the end of August.

Source: Shelley Danner, program director for Challenge Detroit
Writer: Jon Zemke

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