How a dangerous corner store became a beacon of safety

Thirty years ago, late at night on the westside of Detroit, my mother faced one of the most harrowing experiences of her life. She stopped into the In and Out corner store to buy cold medicine for me, and when she exited the store, she was robbed at gunpoint.

“I remember his eyes. They were big,” recalled my mother, Ursura Moore.

She threw her purse in the hope she wouldn’t be harmed, and was able to get into her car safely and drive away. But the memory has haunted her ever since.

Over the years, that storefront located in the Grandmont Rosedale neighborhood where I grew up was often abandoned — and to some, a symbol of danger and fear for the community.

Today, that building has been transformed thanks in large part to community activism. It’s now the headquarters of New Era Community Connection, a grassroots organization dedicated to community safety .

With the support of a $700,000 grant from the city’s $10 million initiative to reduce gun violence, known as ShotStoppers, New Era was able to acquire its new headquarters. The location was not initially planned, but New Era had worked in the area and was familiar with the community’s needs.

“It’s ironic that a place once feared is now a symbol of safety in this community,” said Nilajah Alonzo, executive assistant of New Era. “When we found this building on Schoolcraft, it fit perfectly (with our mission), even though it wasn’t in our initial zone. Since moving here, the residents have been incredibly supportive and active. We make it a priority to support them in return, offering assistance to ensure this community continues to thrive.”

That assistance includes walking the streets and building relationships with residents, with a particular focus on the safety of older adults, women and children. New Era’s headquarters has become a vital community hub, hosting meetings, addressing concerns and providing essential resources. Regular barbecues at the site foster camaraderie and offer a welcoming space for community interaction. New Era also encourages men in the community to take an active role in looking out for their neighbors, reinforcing a culture of protection and responsibility.

Leatha Larde has lived in the neighborhood for more than 40 years. She says she’s thrilled New Era has moved in. “We have our community meetings there now, and it’s wonderful to have such a positive group in that building. It’s always been associated with negativity before.”

In 2020, I purchased my first house in this neighborhood. My mother was my real estate agent. My main reason for returning was to be close to my grandmother.

The neighborhood has changed since I was a kid, but I feel a deep sense of security and belonging, and I’m reassured by New Era’s presence. It’s inspiring to be part of this vibrant, resilient community, moving forward together, stronger and more united. I’m proud to be home.

How a dangerous corner store became a beacon of safety · Outlier Media