Building Collaborative Networks
Five-Year Report
Co.act excels at providing space for organic meetings and discussions, facilitating impactful connections, and reimagining what’s possible. The result? Accelerated change that is equitable and transformative across Southeast Michigan. Take a look at how Class Act Detroit has been part of Co.act’s ecosystem for a few years, and read about the impact they have been able to have as a result of leveraging many of Co.act’s resources and services.
Class Act Detroit, founded and directed by Rashard Dobbins, is dedicated to unlocking the vision and creativity of working families in Detroit through hip-hop culture. By offering free after-school programs centered around media composition, art, illustration, and youth development, Class Act Detroit provides young people with the tools to grow, develop self-confidence, and engage in their community. Dobbins, who is affectionately known as “Mr. D” by some of the kids, brings his entertainment and educational backgrounds to the forefront of the organization’s programs.
Since its founding in 2017, Class Act Detroit has grown from a grassroots initiative operating in Dobbins’ home to serving over 300 children across Detroit. Over the past five years, Class Act Detroit has become an active member of the Co.act ecosystem, where Dobbins has participated in workshops, drop-in workdays, and has been a grantee recipient. His journey started with a vision and limited knowledge, but through flexible investments and the collaboration within the Co.act community, he has transformed his initial idea into a thriving organization. Today, Class Act Detroit continues to leverage the connections and funding opportunities that have helped improve its physical space, programming, and fundraising strategies.
Dobbins expresses a deep sense of gratitude, crediting Co.act’s support for giving his organization the “transformational capacity” it needs. Dobbins reflects “Class Act wouldn’t be standing today, if not for Co.act Detroit.”
Co.act, thank you for using your superpowers. You have not only showed us, but enabled us to really have transformational capacity. Without the resources and support of Co.act, Class Act Detroit would not be sustainable and thriving today.
– Rashard Dobbins, Executive Director, Class Act Detroit
Programming
Class Act Detroit’s youth programming focuses on nurturing creativity through hip-hop. The organization offers three core programs: media composition, art and illustration, and youth development. These programs provide students with opportunities to develop their talents, explore their interests, and gain skills that extend beyond the arts. In addition to its regular programming, Class Act Detroit also made adjustments during the COVID-19 pandemic, transitioning to virtual classes and activities to ensure that youth remained engaged and supported throughout the stay-at-home orders.
Fundraising
Class Act Detroit has redefined its fundraising approach, investing in both long-term sustainability and community involvement. Through grants and local partnerships, the organization has increased its outreach, building a stronger donor base and creating opportunities for growth. The funds received have helped Class Act Detroit enhance its programming and establish its new cultural hub, the House of Hip-Hop. The organization’s focus on relationship-building and community engagement continues to drive its fundraising success.
Space Renovations
The WELL Fund is the primary funding stream that is financing the transformation of its space. The WELL Fund has allowed Class Act Detroit to transform a historic church into the House of Hip-Hop, a 13,000-square-foot community center dedicated to arts education, mentorship, and creative expression. This space, which has been under renovation since 2022, will provide room for media creation, artist workshops, performances, and community events. This renovation is also supported by KIP:D+ funds and aims to create nine interior spaces and nine external lots for youthfocused activities.In addition to providing a platform for artistic expression, the House of Hip-Hop also supports the local community by offering programs that promote positive racial identity, entrepreneurship, and self-actualization.