Adapt and Conquer

From rural living to city living it’s safe to say, from my experience, the transition can be a bit of a culture shock. Not only are the physical surroundings different, the internal feelings associated with the change can be just as foreign. From being taken back by the size of the city, to the diversity amongst the local population the transition can be tough. Adapting to the new culture definitely took time simply because everything was way out of the ordinary. However, as was stated in the previous post, believing in the ability to adapt and conquer is part of that initial leap of faith.

The key to overcoming this shock is to find things that interest you, and in a city like Detroit there are plenty of options. For instance, did you know Detroit has a welcome center?! Located on the easily accessible and notably famous Woodward Avenue, the “D Hive” strives to provide both residents and newcomers an all access pass to everything from organizations to join, volunteer opportunities, networking events, social events, etc. This is also a great place to start if you’re thinking of moving to Detroit as they can recommend locations in the city that would best fit your needs and show you available accommodations. To learn more about the D Hive click here to visit their welcome site! 

Click the map for directions to the D Hive!

During my city living transition, I started noticing what looked to be garden-like structures in various locations in the downtown area. This struck my curiosity because I couldn’t remember a summer without growing a garden… here come those country roots again. After a little investigation I was spot on because I managed to land myself in an urban gardening community in Midtown Detroit. While this may sound like an oxymoron, urban farming and gardening organizations have been popping up all over the city. Organizations, who are able to provide funding, have been transforming vacant and unused city lots into these clean, sustainable gardens that are mainly tended by volunteers. There are a number of different purposes for each garden as well. Some are voluntarily maintained and the produce is provided to local food pantries and shelters, while others offer space gardeners can rent to grow their own produce.

For the last two summer seasons I’ve rented plots in the Art Center Community Garden in Midtown Detroit. A single plot in 2012, blissfully grew to two plots in 2013. However these plots don’t come without a price… in addition to caring for the personal garden, volunteer time is required in the public garden area’s in order to renew the same space the following year. Through this volunteer time I’ve met so many people who share the same interests and even have the same background as I do. So that whole transition thing… piece of cake.  

See the Garden Grow!

Urban gardening is just an example as there are countless other organizations and opportunities in Detroit that can make newcomers feel right at home. Whether it’s the D Hive that points you in the right direction or you just take a walk and make your own discovery, there is a place for everyone here… Love Always, Detroit.