The Detroit Partnership runs a variety of weekly service-learning programs in Detroit schools, churches, and community organizations. Over 150 University of Michigan students travel to Detroit every week for these volunteer programs, which range from tutoring and mentoring to after-school art classes to counseling. With the variety of programs offered at differing times Monday through Friday, there is something for everyone!
Raise Awareness. Break Stereotypes. Create Movement.
Find a program.
By Day: Monday | Tuesday | Wednesday | Thursday | Friday
By Neighborhood: Brightmoor | Southwest | School Programs
By Type: Tutoring | Arts | Mentoring | Sports | Working with Adults
Frequently Asked Questions
How time consuming are weekly programs?
Program lengths vary, depending on the structure, location, and activities. Most programs will take 3-5 hours per week, including travel time. Each weekly program lists the campus departure and return times on its information page. You are welcome to participate in as many programs as fit into your schedule, however, please be mindful of how important
Where are the DP’s service-learning programs?
Our programs are located primarily at schools, community centers, and churches in both Brightmoor (Northwest Detroit) and Southwest Detroit.
How do volunteers get to their sites?
We rely on volunteers with cars to drive for our programs. If you don’t have a car, no worries! There will be a seat for you in the carpool. If you are able to drive, however, please answer the driver questions accordingly when registering for a program. We reimburse all of our drivers for gas.
What is service learning?
Service-learning is a pedagogical model that intentionally integrates service with the community, academic learning, and civic learning (knowledge, skills, and values that prepare students for active community participation). The community service informs the student learning, and the learning informs the community service.
Source: About Service-Learning at the University of Michigan
Who can participate?
Everyone is welcome! UM students, non-UM students, UM faculty or staff, community members, or anyone else who is interested in volunteering is welcome to sign up for projects. All projects are open to you once you register online.
How do I sign up for programs?
All program signups are available on thedp.org. Keep an eye on the website for the latest information on new volunteer opportunities. Everyone is invited: U of M Students, Non-U of M Students, Faculty, Staff, and Community Members!
Are there any costs?
There are NO costs associated with The Detroit Partnership for participants! All weekly volunteer drivers will be reimbursed for gas expenses if they save their receipts and complete the corresponding paperwork before periodic deadlines provided by the Finance Team.
How can I get a weekly program at my school, church, or community center?
All requests for new programs are handled on a case-by-case basis. While we try to run programs with as many community partners as possible, our resources are limited and we will not add a new program to the detriment of an existing program. To request a volunteer program at your site, please contact the Directors Board at dp.dir@umich.edu.
