Friends of the Rouge is establishing a 29-mile water trail in metro-Detroit. Some of these communities are home to the region’s major industry. Residents are predominantly people of color and lower income. As legacy pollution is cleaned up and recreation can be considered, creating trails uplifts the river’s value as a natural resource and while interpreting the past uses. FOTR develops systems, identifies resources, and builds capacity of localized partners to propel this vision.
Learning Objectives:
Understand forward facing programs that can enhance volunteer and grass roots community connections
Help participants identify opportunities to meet people where they are to advance project goals
Recognize the value of strategic community engagement
Presenters:
Herman Jenkins, Trails Manager, Friend of the Rouge
Herman Jenkins is a native Detroiter and joined Friends of the Rouge in 2021. Herman coordinates with Wayne County, municipalities, and community stakeholders on the Lower Rouge River Water Trail Leadership Committee to advance the strategic plan for a 29-mile water trail and network of connected greenways on the Lower Rouge River. Jenkins has worked to advance design development and secured over $ 8 million in project funding. Jenkins’ work impacts local business who provide livery services, and he leverages community partnerships with organizations like the Detroit Bird Alliance, the Black Pack, the LGBTQ Outdoors, and the Inkster Task Force to promote paddling the Rouge.