Michigan Movement- Project Connect Michigan Movement

Hussain Ali

Michigan Movement- Project Connect Michigan Movement (MIM) is a student-run 501(c)(3) nonprofit founded and based here at the University of Michigan. We were born out of urgency; as students living in Ann Arbor, America’s most educated, yet 8th most economically segregated city, MIM began as our means of redressing the disproportionate rates of chronic homelessness in our community. Our mission is to aid individuals and families experiencing homelessness in Washtenaw County, promoting dignity, health, and catalyze community engagement along the way. To realize this mission, we apply a holistic approach that includes providing basic necessities, education and employment services, and social advocacy and community engagement. Our most significant event each year is Project Connect, during which students create and distribute 150 MIMkits (care packages) consisting of food, clothing, and hygiene supplies. With a focus on collaboration and innovation, we have expanded our Project Connect resources to include medical services like vaccines, blood pressure and cholesterol screenings, vital document accessibility, as well as preventative dental exams and haircuts. To achieve this, we have enlisted the help of our local core partner organizations such as Mercy House and the Delonis Center. We have also forged new relationships across the public and private sectors, from partners ranging from Infinity Salon to the University’s Dental School. Through the addition of music and a free meal, we hope Project connect will also bring in a larger population of the community and foster relationships where students and members of the community can interact with each other. The strong relationships we develop will further allow us to better understand the needs of our community, and work to end stigmas and stereotypes associated with homelessness.

Library Mentor:  Alex Deeke