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MEET OUR TEAM
We are the Community Treehouse Center Inc. with our partners the Manistique Block Club (200-300 block) and Community Partners working together on this Treehouse project. Our mission is to help our youth and community gain mental and physical well-being as well as a well-rounded view of life with an understanding of their environment and culture. We will empower youth with independence, and collaboration skills. Our Organization with our block club takes pride in the community and it's safety. We welcome any organizations and community groups who is interested in teaching our children to be well rounded in culture, environment, the arts, business, integrity, healthy eating, greening and growing, any issue of mental well-being. Jeff Berger- Community Member & Treehouse Builder (not pictured)
Tammy Black President, project leader & Grant writer
My name is Tammy Black, the creator of this Treehouse project. I have a master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling, a Certification accounting and data processing , associate degree in math and chemistry and bachelor’s degree in computer information system, electrical contractor, supervisor for lead abatement. I am a 60 year old mother of 6 kids. Yes! my house is the house where all the kids love to be, to eat, play, and just to talk to me about issues or just daily life. I have been living in this neighborhood of Jefferson/Chalmers for 12 years. I love this neighborhood because everyone is committed to making it a good place to live for everyone. It is something about being close to nature that I feel helps us all to release some of our anxiety. What better place for kids and young adults to develop their creativity and gain a positive peace of mind. I have been an advocate for kids all my whole life. I always loved to help the kids that no one felt would succeed. I felt the children needed to be heard and understood. The Treehouse will be a place without judgement and allowing individuals to be themselves with a focus on what their interest are and how they can develop them. My hope is that they will gain life long friendships. This Treehouse is not just for the kids on the block of Manistique, but it is for all children, adults, veterans, and families in the metro area.
Willa Strawder, Program/Sustainability Director
Willa Strawder is an enthusiastic, mission-focused, strategic professional with 20+ years in community engagement, coordinating and relationship-building. A proud graduate of the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, she received her Bachelor’s degree in English, Language and Literature. Most notably, Willa perfected her competences in program management, problem-solving and leadership while successfully working as an Account Manager for Xfinity, an Event Planner for Voight Enterprises and National Promotions/Sales Coordinator for IHeart Media. In her free time, Willa enjoys nature walks, listening to meditative music and watching the sunrise. She also has a voracious appetite for learning about financial education, natural health and well-being.
Siobhan Gregory,community member & treehouse/landscape designer
I am an industrial designer and applied anthropologist and my work focuses on the progress of human-centered design and collaborative design. Professionally, I use anthropological theory and methods to help organizations form deep and meaningful connections with their customers and stakeholders through culturally informed product development, service innovations, and brand direction. I am also a Senior Lecturer in the areas of industrial design and design research at Wayne State University. I moved to Jefferson Chalmers in the fall of 2012, after meeting some local community leaders who shared my values of community building through gardening and local food production. For the last few years, I have had the honor of working with grassroots community leaders in Jefferson Chalmers to help design and plan equitable and relevant spaces and events. I strive to support people and projects that foster equality, accessibility, and that reflect the spirit of this wonderful and kind community of people. The Manistique Street Treehouse project is important to me because it’s mission is one of inclusive healing, and building human connections through nature and the environment.
