Investing in the communities where we live and serve is the heart of the work we do at the DTE Foundation.
That belief came to life in the Brightmoor community, where, with our partnership, Detroit Hives completed the Brightmoor Botanical Garden, transforming a formerly vacant lot into a four‑season perennial garden that now serves both the neighborhood and local pollinators.
This project was built through collaboration. Residents, local organizations, and business partners came together to contribute more than 80 volunteer hours, plant over 500 perennial flowers, and add 14 trees to the site. What emerged is a resilient, pollinator‑friendly landscape that strengthens the neighborhood’s tree canopy while restoring biodiversity in the area.
The Brightmoor Botanical Garden reflects the kind of layered impact we strive for through our environmental investments.
“We are sincerely thankful to the DTE Foundation for investing in the Brightmoor Botanical Garden—a living testament to what’s possible when community, conservation and collaboration intersect, said Timothy and Nicole Lindsey Jackson, co-founders, Detroit Hives. “Together, we are transforming once-blighted land into a thriving habitat that supports both people and pollinators—expanding biodiversity, restoring neighborhood pride, and increasing equitable access to nature for all. This partnership is helping cultivate not only native wildflowers and trees, but hope, stewardship and opportunity within Detroit’s Brightmoor community. Through this work, this project is helping to make Detroit just a little more brighter.”
From an environmental standpoint, the garden supports pollinator health and helps restore native plant life. Socially, it provides a safe, welcoming space where neighbors can gather, connect and take pride in their community. Educationally, it serves as a living classroom—offering hands‑on opportunities to learn about conservation, pollinators, and environmental stewardship. And from a wellness perspective, it encourages outdoor activity while offering a peaceful green space for reflection and restoration.
What was once an abandoned parcel is now a vibrant community asset. For us, this transformation underscores the power of strategic investment in underserved neighborhoods—when resources are paired with strong community partners and resident engagement, the results can be both beautiful and lasting.
We’re proud to partner with Detroit Hives and the Brightmoor community in creating a space that benefits people, pollinators and the environment for years to come.
