About Us
Understanding Before Action
We don't tell people to participate. We ask why they stopped. The answer changes everything.
Our Story
The Perspective Collective was born from a simple but uncomfortable observation: the people most affected by civic decisions are increasingly the least likely to participate in making them. Not because they don't care, but because they don't see themselves reflected in the process.
We started with conversations. Dinners, actually. Small gatherings where community leaders, artists, entrepreneurs, and everyday residents sat together and talked honestly about what civic participation means and what it costs in their lives. What we heard reshaped our entire approach.
People didn't need more information about how to vote or where to find their polling place. They needed to feel like the system acknowledged their existence. They needed to see their stories reflected in civic life, not just their demographics. They needed perspective, their own and others', to find a reason to re-engage.
Our Mission
To uncover the perspectives that shape civic participation, document the lived experiences behind civic disengagement, and reconnect the next generation to meaningful participation through dialogue, storytelling, and shared understanding.
Our Vision
A future where civic participation grows from understanding, trust, and cultural relevance, where every community sees itself in the democratic process, and engagement is driven not by obligation but by genuine connection.
Leadership
Board of Directors
The founding board is being finalized across Detroit's civic, business, and creative landscapes. Six seats are currently filled, and we are seeking one additional woman leader whose perspective will strengthen the board.
Jonathan Barlow
President
Lydia Jamison
Secretary
Eldridge Ross
Treasurer
Lloyd Banks
Director
Daniel Castillo
Director
Lex Zavala
Director
Open Seat
Seeking one woman board member
Board Referral Request
We are actively recruiting one additional woman board member. We are looking for a Detroit-area leader with judgment, credibility, community perspective, and the willingness to help shape the organization at launch.
Who We Want Referred
- Women with credibility in civic, cultural, nonprofit, business, or community leadership.
- People who can contribute perspective, governance judgment, and strong local relationships.
- Individuals aligned with Detroit, civic participation, and nontraditional community engagement.
Submit a Referral
Share the name, role, and a few lines on why this woman should be considered for the board.
What is a 501(c)(4)?
A 501(c)(4) is a tax-exempt social welfare organization recognized by the Internal Revenue Service. Unlike a 501(c)(3) charity, a 501(c)(4) is permitted to engage in civic advocacy, issue-based education, and community mobilization as its primary activities.
The Perspective Collective chose this structure intentionally. Our work lives at the intersection of culture, civic awareness, and community voice, areas that require the flexibility to address issues directly, host candid conversations, and advocate for the kind of systemic understanding that drives real participation.
Note: The Perspective Collective is currently in formation. Contributions to 501(c)(4) organizations are generally not tax-deductible as charitable donations.
Address: 1320 Wilkins Street, Detroit, MI 48208
Our Journey
Formation Timeline
2024
The Idea Takes Shape
A series of conversations between community leaders in Detroit revealed a shared frustration: civic institutions were losing an entire generation. The question shifted from 'how do we get people to vote?' to 'why did they stop believing their voice matters?'
2025
Founding Board Assembled
A cross-sector founding board took shape across civic, business, community, media, and creative circles in Detroit, with one additional woman board seat now being filled through referrals.
2025
501(c)(4) Formation Begins
Articles of incorporation filed in Michigan. The organization formally begins its path to recognition as a 501(c)(4) social welfare organization.
2026
Programs in Development
Perspective Dinners, cultural events, and community media initiatives are being designed and piloted. The groundwork is being laid for a new kind of civic engagement organization.