Petition to Transform Stocking Elementary into a Community Hub Logo
  • Petition to Transform Stocking Elementary into a Community Hub

    Your voice matters!
  • We, the undersigned, call upon local authorities to approve the transformation of the former Stocking Elementary School into a vibrant, multi-use community hub.

    Why We Are Petitioning
    The former Stocking Elementary School currently sits unused—a space filled with potential. Our community needs a centralized location that offers education, wellness, support services, and opportunities for people of all ages. Repurposing this facility will not only prevent further blight but will also serve as a catalyst for growth, connection, and empowerment in our neighborhood.

    Our Vision
    We seek to create a Stocking Community Hub that will:

    • Provide educational and workforce development programs for youth and adults.
    • Offer mental and physical wellness services, including fitness classes and health resources.
    • Serve as a space for arts, culture, and creativity, including exhibitions and performances.
    • Support small businesses and entrepreneurs through co-working spaces and mentorship.
    • Deliver social services like food pantries, childcare, maternal health support, and case management.
    • Host programming for seniors and youth, and provide inclusive gathering spaces for all.
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  • Our Community’s Needs

    • Lack of public community spaces and recreational areas
    • High demand for job training, tutoring, and adult education
    • Gaps in access to health and wellness resources
    • Insufficient support for youth and senior populations

    Who Supports This Initiative
    Potential partnerships for the Stocking Community Hub include:

    • West Grand Neighborhood Organization - Neighborhood Organization/Safety
    • Jump Ahead L3C - Youth Programming
    • Case and Resource Support - For unhoused or at risk individuals or families
    • Steepletown Neighborhood Services - Case Management, Workforce Development, Childcare, Senior Support, Kitchen Sage
    • Grand River Maker’s Space - Trades
    • Genesis Non-Profit Housing - LIHTC Housing or New Development Corp.
    • Kind Hearts Bloom- Food Sovereignty
    • Doula & Lactation - Maternal and Child support
    • MI Bridges Navigator - Trained and stationed

    Note: Organizations would share the cost of overhead for the building and the property.

    This petition is backed by:

    • New Development Corp.
    • Pure Architects
    • Pickle and Pin
    • MWS Auto 
    • Matthew’s House
    • Wenger’s
    • Jon O’Conner
    • Elected Leaders
    • HoogerHyde
    • Over 100 local residents have already signed in support

    Funding and Sustainability
    We propose a capital campaign with a goal of $12.5 million, including:

    • $1/year lease for the building
    • $10 million in renovations
    • $2.5 million in first-year operations

    Funding will come from government and foundation grants, corporate sponsorships, and community fundraising.

    What We Ask
    We respectfully urge local government leaders and decision-makers to:

    ✅ Approve the lease or transfer of the Stocking Elementary facility
    ✅ Support the proposal for renovation and programming
    ✅ Collaborate with us to pursue funding and development opportunities
    ✅ Stand with the residents and organizations who are ready to activate this vital community space

    Sign the Petition
    We, the undersigned, support the transformation of Stocking Elementary into a thriving community hub that will serve generations to come.

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  • Reminders: By submitting this form, you agree that the information provided is accurate and truthful to the best of your knowledge. Please provide relevant and accurate information to support the cause.

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