The LaStraw

The LaStraw, Inc. is dedicated to breaking the cycle of poverty in underserved communities. Since 2003, we've been working alongside residents to create sustainable solutions that uplift lives and foster lasting change. We believe in the power of community-driven initiatives and are committed to building a future where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.

What We Do:

We focus on three core pillars:

• Involve: We empower residents to be active participants in shaping their community's future through our Community Council, ensuring their voices are heard at every level.
• Understand: Through our Targeted Community Health Initiative (TCHI), we bridge the gap between existing services and the real needs of our communities, focusing on health and well-being.
• Grow: Our Gifted Giving Hands Program fosters entrepreneurship, providing crucial resources and support for individuals to build successful businesses and create jobs.

Our Programs:

• Gifted Giving Hands Program:
  • C-BAM! (Community-Building and Accountability via Microenterprise): We provide virtual and in-person training to help local businesses thrive and achieve revenue parity.
  • Creator's Initiative: We champion "creatives of color," particularly Black/African American artists, in the film and TV industry, providing resources and advocating against systemic barriers.
• Targeted Community Health Initiative (TCHI):
  • Cultivating Community Wellness: We combat food insecurity by establishing community gardens, providing access to fresh, healthy food, and promoting wellness.
  • Community Council: We advocate against systemic racism and discrimination, working to create equitable opportunities for all.

Why Your Support Matters:

• We're building a platform for lasting change, directly empowering individuals to improve their quality of life.
• Our 5-Year Goal: Create 125 new businesses, generate 300+ new jobs, and raise $7.5 million to expand our impact.
• We address the root causes of poverty, not just the symptoms.
• We are working to reduce the need for emergency social services.

Join Us!

• Volunteer: Share your skills and passion to make a tangible difference in our community. We need volunteers for mentoring, workshops, gardening, and advocacy.
• Donate: Your generous contributions will directly support our programs, helping us reach our ambitious goals and transform lives. Every dollar counts!
• Partner: If your organization would like to partner with us, please reach out.

Call to Action:

• Visit our website to learn more and get involved.
• Donate today: https://sharedetroit.org/nonprofit/lastraw
• Contact us to volunteer or partner: reapwhatuseaw@thelastraworg.onmicrosoft.com