CHANGE STARTS HERE
Behind-The Scenes
Making Whole Homes Energy Efficient
Creating healthier homes doesn’t happen overnight. Behind the scenes, our team is hard at work coordinating inspections, repairs, and education that make long-term change possible.
How It Started
The Story Behind The Movement
The Whole Homes, Whole Communities Program (WHWC) is a four-year initiative that is aiming to provide clean energy and homeowner education, home repairs and energy efficiency improvements to residents across Highland Park and the Eastside of Detroit, Michigan.
The program is being administered in partnership with Soulardarity and Elevate. The initiative stems from the legal intervention work done by We Want Green Too and Soulardarity, in partnership with the Abrams Law Clinic, Vote Solar, Ecology Center, and the Union of Concerned Scientists. Together during a case presenting a new resource plan by the energy giant DTE to the MPSC (Michigan Public Service Commission), we were able to secure $8 million in settlement funding for the 48203 and 48214 area codes for this important work over the next four years, and hopefully, beyond.
Building Healthier, Safer, Energy-Efficient Homes
Home energy efficiency improvements and homeowner education go hand in hand when it comes to creating lasting impact in our communities. Energy-efficient homes are not only better for the environment, but they're healthier, safer, and more affordable for the families who live in them.
Upgrading insulation, sealing air leaks, installing energy-efficient appliances, and improving heating and cooling systems can significantly lower utility bills, reduce exposure to harmful indoor pollutants, and make homes more resilient in extreme weather conditions. But improvements alone are not enough. Educating homeowners about how to maintain and maximize these upgrades ensures the benefits are long-term and sustainable. When families understand how their home systems work, how to conserve energy, and how to identify potential safety risks, they’re empowered to take control of their living environment.
Where We’re At: Now Serving Detroit & Highland Park Residents
After a rigorous planning process, we are now prepared to provide home assessment for qualified residents of East Detroit and Highland Park. There is no deadline for participant interest so we encourage you to apply all year round. Residents can expect to be contacted by a representative after they’ve filled out the interest form and walked through their options. Despite there being necessary criteria to participate in this program, do not be discouraged.
Any application filled out for any of our programs is screened against the other programs. If you don’t qualify for this one we will try our best to connect you with other resources or programs that can assist you. We will be providing summarized updates here and more detailed information on the WHWC website so subscribe to our mailing list for updates on all the great programs and services we offer.
Join the Movement: Help Us Strengthen Our Communities
Together, we can create healthier homes, stronger families, and more resilient communities. The Whole Homes, Whole Communities Program is more than just repairs, it’s about empowering residents with safe, affordable, energy-efficient homes that improve lives for generations to come.
Whether you’re a homeowner in need, a partner looking to collaborate, or a supporter who believes in this mission your involvement makes a lasting difference.
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Our Purpose
To be a self-sufficient, independent, sovereign people to live in the world we believe is possible through building a sustainable community that recognizes our humanity.
Our Story
We Want Green, Too! is a grassroots, community-led nonprofit founded by Gloria J. Lowe, inspired by her work with Veterans at the Detroit Veterans Center.
Our Mission
We Want Green, Too! is on the ground making sure no Veteran is left behind. We are creating an inclusive, safe, sustainable and energy efficient community space to serve our Veterans and Detroit’s East Side.
Number Overview
50%
Up to 50% Reduction
In household energy bills after home energy efficiency improvements are completed.
$8M
Secured Funding
$8 Million secured in funding to support home repairs, energy efficiency, and education for Detroit and Highland Park residents.
500+
Over 500 Residents
Expected to receive home assessments, repairs, and educational resources through the program.
Sponsors & Stakeholders
We offer our heartfelt thanks to the program sponsors, legal advocates, and community stakeholders whose unwavering dedication and tireless efforts have been instrumental in bringing justice and resources back to the residents we serve. Your courage in standing up, often in the face of resistance, to fight legal battles on behalf of vulnerable communities has not only led to a meaningful settlement but has also set a powerful precedent for accountability and
equity. Because of your advocacy, our neighborhoods now have access to the tools and funding needed to address long standing health and safety issues in the home—an outcome that will have a generational impact.
We are especially grateful for your deep commitment to fairness and community empowerment. Your advocacy went beyond the courtroom—it was rooted in a genuine belief that every resident deserves to live in a safe, healthy, and dignified environment. This victory is not just a legal one; it is a reflection of what’s possible when we come together to demand change and deliver hope. Your work has opened the door to healing, restoration, and transformation for countless families, and for that, we are profoundly thankful.
Funding Sponsor - Detroit Energy
Collaborating Partners - Soulardarity, Elevate
Advocates - Abrams Law Clinic, Vote Solar, Ecology Center, and the Union of Concerned Scientists
Let’s Build a Healthier Future Together
Every repaired home, every educated family, and every empowered resident brings us one step closer to stronger, more resilient communities. The work we do today creates safer living conditions, lowers energy costs, and improves quality of life for generations to come. Your support, participation, or partnership helps drive this mission forward.
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