Detroit

Our Community

Outside of Detroit there is a common perception of our city and education system: the difficult economy has led to, among other things, a decreasing population and public school system under constant scrutiny and overhaul. Those of us who live and work here, however, understand that this narrative is only a small part of the Detroit story.

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Detroit faces big challenges with an even bigger heart. This is a community that fights for its children and is committed to finding the right solutions to overcome every challenge that comes its way. Detroit is a tight-knit community that cares for its children and future. To call yourself a Detroiter you must be passionate about becoming a partner in this community and holding yourself, and your students, to the highest standards.

If you’re up for the challenge, you’ll discover a relatively low cost of living, many charming neighborhoods near your school, and a community of every day leaders who are committed to doing whatever it takes to uplift our city and our children.
“There is a steady undercurrent of energy in Detroit that underlies everything that everyone does. Being an emerging leader in the region also gives you the opportunity to influence the conversations about social change.”

Teach For America Detroit alumnus

Neighborhood Highlights

A sign outside of Slows BBQ restaurant.
Downtown Detroit skyline.
Eastern Farmer's Market wall mural.
Mural in Midtown neighborhood, Detroit, MI.
A wooded park with a lookout tower.

Southwest Detroit is a thriving neighborhood that is home to a number of corps members. Known for its Hispanic population, the food and festivals in this area represent the rich culture of the students and families who live there. Nearby Corktown is Detroit's oldest neighborhood and is home to Slows BBQ and Astro Coffee, two local businesses that have been buzzed about from coast to coast.

Downtown Detroit is a wonderful mixture of skyscrapers and historical and architecturally beautiful residential and commercial buildings. Make sure to check out the Renaissance Center, Greektown, Campus Martius, Hart Plaza and the Riverfront. The Downtown area also plays host to the Detroit Lions, Tigers, and Red Wings.

Eastern Market is the largest historic public market district in the United States, and it is located on the city’s central east side. On Saturdays, nearly 45,000 people come to shop for local flowers, plants, produce, and handmade goods.

Located along historic Woodward Avenue, just north of downtown, Midtown is known as one of the cultural hubs of Detroit. It hosts many of Detroit’s most popular museums and galleries. The residential neighborhood itself is comprised of both historical houses and newly constructed apartment buildings and lofts. Midtown is also home to Wayne State University and the College for Creative Studies.

Palmer Park is a public park created in 1895. The park includes a historic log cabin, a large pond named Lake Frances, trails for hiking and biking, and the Palmer Park golf course. The park neighbors Palmer Woods, a beautiful neighborhood that is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

  • Motor City Blight Busters logo.

    Motor City Blight Busters

    Motor City Blight Busters (MCBB) is a non-profit organization and is led by Detroit native, John George. MCBB has been a staple in the community since 1988. Their main mission is to stabilize and revitalize Detroit neighborhoods by demolishing blighted properties and organizing community events and efforts.

  • A young student leading a horse through a field.

    Detroit Horse Power

    Detroit Horse Power was founded in 2015 by TFA alumnus David Silver (Detroit Corps ’12). The organization uniquely addresses two persistent problems facing our city: The shortage of opportunities for metro Detroit’s vulnerable populations (especially children) and the abundance of vacant land. Through riding and caring for horses in a safe and enriching space, program participants learn valuable skills that set them up for future success.

Our Regional Partners

We value our partnerships with local schools, districts, universities, businesses, and other organizations. Our partners play a critical role in creating opportunities for children in our communities.