“100 Fearless Women” Project Hopes to Rebuild Neighborhoods 

By Sheri L. Stuart, Staff Writer
FLINT, Mich. –  Women wanting to see improvements in their Flint neighborhood may get assistance from the Neighborhood Commerce Institute, an organization founded by Dr. Mary Lee Washington, a philanthropic strategist who specializes in community collaborations and connecting small businesses and entrepreneurs to a wide-range of available funding. Under the “100 Fearless Women” Project, Dr. Washington is looking to work with women who are eager to create a new chapter in the history of Flint.
A dozen women attended an informational meeting held at the Flint Public Library on Tuesday, March 27.  Meeting organizer Bethanee Collins said there are millions of dollars available in the form of grants, loans and start-up business funding to help rebuild city neighborhoods however the money often goes unclaimed and does not reach the neighborhoods.  Collins said Dr. Washington works with individuals and groups of men and women to help them establish a community development corporation and secure competitive funds.
“Yes, I’m interested in learning more,” said Chaunte Pitts of Flint.  “I would like to start a homecare service.”
Dorcia Brown said she relocated to Flint three years ago and would like to see positive change.
“I’d like to contribute and make things better for my children and grandchildren,” said Brown. “There are good people here in Flint and I’d like to see them prosper,” she said.
Individuals interested in learning more about Dr. Washington and the Neighborhood Commerce Institute may visit www.neighborhoodcommerceinstitute.com.