Downriver Community Conference

The Downriver Community Conference (DCC) is a 501(c)(3) Michigan non-profit corporation that plays a pivotal role in enhancing the quality of life for residents, workers, and businesses in the Downriver area of Michigan. The organization is supported by the State of Michigan, Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity (LEO), along with other federal, state, and local entities.

Mission and Objectives

The DCC's mission is centered around providing economic, public safety, and human services leadership to its constituent communities. It aims to establish common goals and strategies that benefit the human, social, and economic assets of the region. The organization influences public policy at various levels, from federal to local, and manages financial resources to achieve its vision effectively.

Governance and Structure

As of the last available update, the DCC operates under a board of directors, though specific details about current members are not readily available. The organization is part of a consortium of 20 communities, suggesting a collaborative approach to regional development.

Programs and Services

The DCC offers a wide array of programs and services designed to support its mission:

• Basic Skills and Assessment: Provides individualized, self-paced educational instruction guided by certified teachers. Both Basic Skills and Computer classes are available to help individuals reach their educational goals.

• Chrysalis Boutique: Offers new and gently used career-related clothing and accessories to low-income individuals entering the workforce, through referrals from participating programs or agencies.

• E-911 Services: Provides information related to emergency services, including the revised Wayne County E-911 Operational Surcharge and remittance instructions.

• Career and Employment Services: These include basic career services such as job searches and resume preparation, along with specialized support under the Workforce Innovation Opportunity Act (WIOA), which assists youth, adults, and employers with employment and training needs.

• Weatherization / Energy Assistance: Offers energy-saving measures like insulation, air sealing, and furnace tune-ups or replacements to reduce household utility costs without charging clients.

• Transportation Services: Provides demand-driven transportation, focusing on vulnerable populations, using a fleet of vehicles equipped with wheelchair lifts.

• WayneLINC: A partnership program aimed at supporting career development and job placement for Wayne County residents.

• Brownfield Redevelopment: The Downriver Area Brownfield Consortium (DABC) collaborates with member communities to assess, cleanup, and sustainably reuse brownfield sites, which are properties complicated by environmental contaminants.

Economic Redevelopment Initiatives

The DCC participates in economic redevelopment projects, including community open house meetings for initiatives like the Downriver Economic Redevelopment Assistance Program. These efforts aim to stimulate economic growth and community development in the region.

Financial Support

As a 501(c)(3) non-profit, donations to the DCC are tax-deductible. The organization relies on these contributions to continue its programs and services.

Tax ID and Compliance

The DCC is recognized by the IRS with the Employer Identification Number (EIN) 38-2160259, ensuring compliance with federal tax laws governing non-profit organizations.