DETROIT GROUPS WORKING FOR CHANGE GET BOOST: SKILLMAN FOUNDATION RENEWS SUPPORT FOR ARISE DETROIT!

DETROIT- The Skillman Foundation has awarded $250,000 to ARISE Detroit!, supporting the non-profit organization's mission to promote volunteerism, community activism and positive media images to improve the quality of life in Detroit. Overall, the Skillman Foundation has granted more than $1 million to ARISE Detroit!, which began in 2006, in part inspired by comedian/activist Dr. Bill Cosby's nationwide call for greater personal responsibility and community empowerment in urban communities.

The latest grant will support the organization's 2009 programs and activities. "We are thrilled that in these tough economic times the Skillman Foundation has continued to show confidence in ARISE Detroit! and the thousands of people who have become part of the ARISE Detroit! movement," said Luther Keith, executive director. "Every week new people and organizations are signing on with our vision for change and creating a better Detroit. We look forward to working with neighborhood groups, churches, businesses and all who care about Detroit."

Created in 1960, The Skillman Foundation is a private philanthropy whose chief aim is to help develop good schools and good neighborhoods for children in Detroit.

Since launching in June of 2006, ARISE Detroit! has grown from 22 founding organizations to a clearinghouse coalition of more than 400 non-profits, neighborhood organizations, churches, businesses and media outlets that share a common vision for a better Detroit through greater community involvement and volunteerism. It has also generated more than 3,000 volunteers for community programs involved in mentoring, tutoring, literacy, cleaning up neighborhoods, reducing crime and other efforts based in city neighborhoods.

ARISE is an acronym for Activating Resources, Inspiring Service and Empowerment.