S2610 Rebuilding the Motor City: The Story of Decline, Renewal, and Blight
Class | Registration opens Monday, March 16, 2026 10:00 AM EST
An exploration of the decline of Detroit and the key economic, social, and political factors that contributed to it. Participants will examine the city’s early rebirth and the events that sparked its turnaround. George will share how the decline inspired a grassroots response that grew into Detroit Blight Busters, highlighting its impact on neighborhoods and community pride. The session concludes with an update on where Blight Busters stands today and its ongoing role in Detroit’s continued revitalization.
In person at the Hawk - Not recorded
John George
John George is a lifelong Detroiter who still lives in the Old Redford Community. In 1988, out of concern for his children living around drug activity, George gathered his neighbors and boarded up the vacant home that was being used to sell drugs at night. When the drug dealer came back, they couldn’t get in the house, so they left. This inspired John to quit his insurance job and start what is now Detroit Blight Busters Inc. a nonprofit 501c3 organization.