This organization’s principals fully immersed themselves in the center of this once-forgotten and impoverished neighborhood. Before any improvement efforts were begun, they physically took up permanent residence in the heart of the area. They engaged neighbors without judgment, bias, or preconceived notions. They asked questions and actively listened to the residents about what was important to them and what changes they envisioned for their community.

“We view this lending as a manifestation of our ‘why,’ not just a ‘what.’ When we encounter an organization that has the capacity to elevate lives within the community and create a tangible impact, we go above and beyond to facilitate these transformative partnerships.”

Christi Narayanan, CEO

The result became the remarkable journey of revitalizing and repurposing what was previously The Webster School (1920-2006). This long-abandoned location had become just another blighted site in Pontiac. It is now gaining new life as the Webster Community Center with the help of Micah 6 and the people in that community. They are infusing it with new programs, and the center will serve as a hub of community engagement. Their community garden already produces 5,000 pounds of food each year, and the building secured by Micah 6 in 2016 was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2022.

OppFund embraced the opportunity to contribute substantial supplemental funding. This collaboration is helping to leverage other funding for this $28 million groundbreaking venture. Partners like the National Trust Community Investment Corporation (NTCIC), PNC Bank, LISC, Capital Impact Partners, and MEDC through an investment from the Michigan Strategic Fund, and others are sharing in the capital stack to make this project a reality.