Update on Lease Talks Between Friends of Parkside and the Detroit Housing Commission

(As of July 14, 2025)

Friends of Parkside (FOP) is in ongoing talks with the Detroit Housing Commission (DHC) about our lease at the Villages at Parkside Community Center. DHC terminarefused to renew our lease after more than 24 years in our space. These talks began after Parkside residents rallied and spoke directly to DHC Commissioners about their concerns with the decision not to renew FOP’s lease. During the public meeting, residents shared how FOP has impacted their lives—and, in many cases, the lives of their children—through programs, support, and advocacy over the years.

Since then, FOP has met with DHC leadership twice. As requested by the DHC Board of Commissioners, we shared a list of our space needs, including areas tied to youth and senior programs, food distribution, and the Parkside Tech Hub. These spaces are part of programs supported by current, pending, and future funding.

DHC also sent us a draft space agreement. We’ve shared it with the Friends of Parkside Board of Directors, who will meet soon to review it and discuss next steps.

FOP is working hard to find a path forward that allows us to continue serving Parkside residents through our programs, services, and advocacy.

We’ll keep you updated as more information becomes available.

Thank you for your continued support.

Questions or thoughts? Please contact us at savefop@friendsofparkside.org—we value your voice.

Zachary Rowe, Executive Director