Have you ever pondered what it is like to be homeless? Chances are slim that answer is yes for those of us who have never known poverty. Not necessarily because we think we are above that, but more or less because we don’t think it would ever happen to us. Now, envision not having a warm place to sleep in this brutal Michigan winter. Unfortunately, it is all too much of a reality for many. Here is a cold hard fact: one in every 42 people in Detroit is homeless. Please, just take a minute to wrap your mind around that.
While this problem cannot be remedied in one day, there are places, groups and people making tremendous strides to decrease the astounding number of homeless individuals in the city. Perhaps the organization putting forth the most strategic effort is The Empowerment Plan. What this 501(c)3 nonprofit organization is doing is truly extraordinary.
The mission of TEP aims “to build a better life for those that have fallen into the cycle of homelessness.” How is that accomplished? Well, in a two-fold.
The humanitarian group manufactures coats. However, these are no ordinary coats—they also double as a sleeping bag at night and can be rolled up and worn as an over-the-shoulder bag when not in use. These coats are then given out to homeless folks. But here is the kicker: TEP also employs the homeless full-time and has them construct the coats.
“We provide a second chance to those who want it and warmth to those who need it,” Erika George, communications and projects manager at The Empowerment Plan, said.
The initiative was started by Veronika Scott while she was a student at the College of Creative Studies. Scott was given a unique assignment: to design a product to fill an actual need, and little did she know the project would forever positively affect her life and the lives of countless others.
After immediately realizing she wanted to help the homeless, Scott’s initial idea was to create a product that a homeless person could call their own possession, while also keeping them warm. This is how the coat that is easily converted into a sleeping bag was born.
While Scott was asking for feedback on a prototype at a homeless shelter, a homeless woman angrily informed her that she didn’t need a coat, she needed a job. Scott took this statement to heart, and realized her coat was essentially a bandage for a much bigger problem. From this, she developed the idea to train and hire homeless single parents to manufacture the coats. Since then, the organization has been ever-evolving.
There aren’t many other organizations quite like TEP, but there have been a handful of cities and organizations around the United States that have contacted the Detroit-based nonprofit, looking to replicate the process and asking for help on how to approach it.
“There are other programs that provide onsite job training for the homeless, but our organization is unique, as we actually offer full-time employment and provide staff with the skills needed to be successful both professionally and personally,” George said. “Our program is also unique because of the product we make.”
To start, Scott only hired homeless single mothers, but she recently brought on a homeless single father. He was brought in as a production control coordinator. There are currently 19 women and one man employed through the initiative.
The employees really have been given a second chance through this life-changing experience. They are not only learning new skills, but also how to be self-sufficient again. Each team member recently completed a workshop on lean manufacturing as well. In addition to teaching the homeless skills in the workplace, TEP also goes above and beyond by making sure to take every necessary step possible to help the homeless employees get back on their feet.
“In addition to sewing and manufacturing, we offer team building and professionalism classes and work with each individual to help ensure they have the tools they need to succeed. We provide the resources to help them obtain safe and reliable transportation, budget their finances, find secure housing, etc.,” said George. “A handful of the women are also enrolled in college courses or are working toward their GED. We help each employee map out their goals and what it will take for them to achieve their goals.”
In terms of distribution of the coats, TEP works with a variety of other nonprofits and outreach organizations, both locally and throughout the country. On average, the seamstresses produce about 25 coats per day. In 2014, the team produced about 4,500 coats total. This year, the nonprofit estimates handing out 6,500 of them! Coats are handed out/shipped based on the requests received. As you can imagine, TEP receives quite a few requests in the winter.
There is no set timetable for the employees, as they can stay as long they would like. After a three-month long training period is completed, employees are then brought on full-time. However, some have been rejuvenated by the program and were able to find employment elsewhere.
“We have had a couple women move on beyond TEP at their own free will because they felt like they had gained the confidence they needed to pursue other opportunities and they wanted to allow someone else in a situation of homelessness to gain the second chance they were given,” George added.
All of the 19 women employed have been able to find secure housing since joining TEP, while the recently hired single father is in the process of finding a place.
TEP is looking to expand its coat into a retail version this year, using a buy one, give one model as a way to be a sustainable organization. George notes that the organization generates a lot of interests from all kinds of people, from hikers to “doomsday preppers.”
As previously mentioned, TEP is a nonprofit organization. A portion of its funding comes through donations. You can donate here. Your donation gives the gift of warmth to somebody in need.
This plan is a pioneer in the fight against homelessness and poverty. It is a first-class organization dedicated to doing good in a city that needs it most. If we had more entities like this, then without a doubt the fight will soon be won.
The system wirelessly charges one mobile device. Some devices require an adaptor or back cover. To check for phone or other device compatibility, visit my.chevrolet.com/learn for details.
Vehicle user interface is a product of Apple and its terms and privacy statements apply. Requires compatible iPhone and data plan rates apply. Apple CarPlay is a trademark of Apple Inc. Siri, iPhone and iTunes are trademarks of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries. / Vehicle user interface is a product of Google, and its terms and privacy statements apply. Requires the Android Auto app on Google Play and an Android compatible smartphone running Android™ 5.0 Lollipop or higher. Data plan rates apply. Android Auto is a trademark of Google LLC.
Standard on all trims: Automatic Emergency Braking, Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning, Forward Collision Alert, Front Pedestrian Braking, Following Distance Indicator, Intellibeam Headlamps. Read the vehicle Owner’s Manual for more important feature limitations and information.
Safety or driver assistance features are no substitute for the driver’s responsibility to operate the vehicle in a safe manner. The driver should remain attentive to traffic, surroundings and road conditions at all times. Visibility, weather, and road conditions may affect feature performance. Read the vehicle’s owner’s manual for more important feature limitations and information.
Before you buy a vehicle or use it for trailering, carefully review the Trailering section of the Owner’s Manual. The weight of passengers, cargo and options or accessories may reduce the amount you can tow.
Available on all trims and standard on RS and Premier including 3.6L V6 engine.
Safety or driver assistance features are no substitute for the driver’s responsibility to operate the vehicle in a safe manner. The driver should remain attentive to traffic, surroundings and road conditions at all times. Visibility, weather, and road conditions may affect feature performance. Read the vehicle’s owner’s manual for more important feature limitations and information.
Service varies with conditions and location. Requires active service plan and paid AT&T Data plan. See onstar.com for details and limitations.
Safety or driver assistance features are no substitute for the driver’s responsibility to operate the vehicle in a safe manner. The driver should remain attentive to traffic, surroundings and road conditions at all times. Visibility, weather, and road conditions may affect feature performance. Read the vehicle’s owner’s manual for more important feature limitations and information.
Safety or driver assistance features are no substitute for the driver’s responsibility to operate the vehicle in a safe manner. The driver should remain attentive to traffic, surroundings and road conditions at all times. Visibility, weather, and road conditions may affect feature performance. Read the vehicle Owner’s Manual for more important feature limitations and information.
With second- and third-row seats folded flat. Cargo and load capacity limited by weight and distribution.
Not compatible with all devices.
Safety or driver assistance features are no substitute for the driver’s responsibility to operate the vehicle in a safe manner. The driver should remain attentive to traffic, surroundings and road conditions at all times. Visibility, weather, and road conditions may affect feature performance. Read the vehicle Owner’s Manual for more important feature limitations and information.
Chevrolet Infotainment System functionality varies by model. Full functionality requires compatible Bluetooth and smartphone, and USB connectivity for some devices.
Safety or driver assistance features are no substitute for the driver’s responsibility to operate the vehicle in a safe manner. The driver should remain attentive to traffic, surroundings and road conditions at all times. Visibility, weather and road conditions may affect feature performance. Read the vehicle Owner’s Manual for more important feature limitations and information.
2. Whichever comes first, in addition to any remaining original factory Bumper-to-Bumper warranty. See participating dealer for limited warranty details.
3. Whichever comes first, from original in-service date. See participating dealer for limited warranty details.
4. During your powertrain limited warranty period, 6 years or 100,000 miles from new vehicle delivery, whichever comes first. Roadside assistance provided by Allstate. See dealer for details.
Available on LS, LT, ACTIV and RS trims.
OnStar plan, working electrical system, cell reception and GPS signal required. OnStar links to emergency services. Stolen Vehicle Assistance requires armed GM factory-installed theft-deterrent system, contact method on file and enrollment to receive alerts. Additional messaging and data rates may apply. Services are intended to assist with vehicle recovery and do not prevent theft or protect against damage or loss. See onstar.com for details and limitations.
24 months, 10,000 miles per year lease for well-qualified GM employees, retirees, and eligible family members with a current Chevy lease through GM Financial. Customer remains responsible for current lease payments. $1,529 due at lease signing after all offers, plus title, tax, license, and plates. No security deposit. Programs are subject to change without notice and certain restrictions may apply, see dealer for details. Offer expires 3/31/21.
Lease is for 2021 Silverado Custom Crew Cab with 2.7L Turbo engine and 20” wheels. 24 months, 10,000 miles per year lease for well-qualified GM employees, retirees, and eligible family members with a current Chevy lease through GM Financial. Must show proof of current lease. Customer remains responsible for current lease payments. $2,839 due at lease signing after all offers, plus title, tax, license, and plates. No security deposit. Programs are subject to change without notice and certain restrictions may apply. See dealer for details. Offer expires 3/31/21.
24 months, 10,000 miles per year lease for well-qualified GM employees, retirees, and eligible family members with a GM lease in the household. Must show proof of current lease. Customer remains responsible for current lease payments. $1,799 due at lease signing after all offers, plus title, tax, license, and plates. No security deposit. Programs are subject to change without notice and certain restrictions may apply, see dealer for details. Offer expires 1/4/21.
24 months, 10,000 miles per year lease for well-qualified GM employees, retirees, and eligible family members with a current Chevy lease through GM Financial. Must show proof of current lease. Customer remains responsible for current lease payments. $849 due at lease signing after all offers, plus title, tax, license, and plates. No security deposit. Programs are subject to change without notice and certain restrictions may apply, see dealer for details. Offer expires 3/31/21.
24 months, 10,000 miles per year lease for well-qualified GM employees, retirees, and eligible family members with a current Chevy lease through GM Financial. Must show proof of current lease. Customer remains responsible for current lease payments. $1,869 due at lease signing after all offers, plus title, tax, license, and plates. No security deposit. Programs are subject to change without notice and certain restrictions may apply, see dealer for details. Offer expires 3/31/21.
24 months, 10,000 miles per year lease for well-qualified GM employees, retirees, and eligible family members with a current Chevy lease through GM Financial. Must show proof of current lease. Customer remains responsible for current lease payments. $4,469 due at lease signing after all offers, plus title, tax, license, and plates. No security deposit. Programs are subject to change without notice and certain restrictions may apply, see dealer for details. Offer expires 3/31/21.
24 months, 10,000 miles per year lease for well-qualified GM employees, retirees, and eligible family members with a current Chevy lease through GM Financial. Must show proof of current lease. Customer remains responsible for current lease payments. $909 due at lease signing after all offers, plus title, tax, license, and plates. No security deposit. Programs are subject to change without notice and certain restrictions may apply, see dealer for details. Offer expires 3/31/21.
24 months, 10,000 miles per year lease for well-qualified GM employees, retirees, and eligible family members with a current Chevy lease through GM Financial. Must show proof of current lease. Customer remains responsible for current lease payments. $689 due at lease signing after all offers, plus title, tax, license, and plates. No security deposit. Programs are subject to change without notice and certain restrictions may apply, see dealer for details. Offer expires 3/31/21.
Eligible Tire Brands: BFGoodrich, Bridgestone, Continental, Dunlop, Firestone, General, Goodyear, Hankook, Kelly, Michelin, Pirelli, Uniroyal
Ad, written estimate, or internet quote for identical tire(s) from a competing tire retailer/installer located within 100 miles of the dealer required during 30 day guarantee period for price match. At participating dealers only. Offer ends 12/31/21.
Credit approval required. Terms and conditions apply. Talk to your participating Service Advisor to apply.
(At participating dealers only. See mycertifiedservicerebates.com for details and rebate form, which must be postmarked by 5/31/20. Allow 6 to 8 weeks for delivery of debit card. Offer ends 4/30/20.)
Retail customers with a U.S. mailing address only. Must purchase and install at a participating Chevrolet, Buick, GMC or Cadillac dealer located in the United States or U.S. territories during the offer period. Transmissions exclude Saab, Chevrolet Medium-/Heavy-Duty Trucks, and GMC Medium-/Heavy-Duty Trucks. Rebate offer not valid with other offers. Limit one rebate per service performed per date and vehicle. Allow 6 to 8 weeks from promotion end date for delivery of debit card. See mycertifiedservicerebates.com for complete details, eligible parts and rebate form, which must be postmarked by 9/30/20. Offer ends 8/31/20.
Purchase must be made at a participating U.S. GM dealer. See mycertifiedservicerebates.com for details and rebate form, which must be postmarked by 3/31/21. Limit three $5 wiper rebates per VIN. Allow 6 to 8 weeks for delivery of debit card. Offer ends 2/28/21.
Purchase must be made at a participating U.S. GM dealer. See mycertifiedservicerebates.com for details and rebate form, which must be postmarked by 3/31/21. Allow 6 to 8 weeks for delivery of debit card. Limit one $10 ACDelco Cabin Air Filter Rebate per VIN. Limit one $10 ACDelco Engine Air Filter Rebate per VIN. Offer ends 2/28/21.
Purchase must be made at a participating U.S. GM dealer. See mycertifiedservicerebates.com for details and rebate form, which must be postmarked by 3/31/21. Allow 6 to 8 weeks for delivery of debit card. Limit one $10 ACDelco Cabin Air Filter Rebate per VIN. Limit one $10 ACDelco Engine Air Filter Rebate per VIN. Offer ends 2/28/21.
Purchase must be made at a participating U.S. GM dealer. See mycertifiedservicerebates.com for details and rebate form, which must be postmarked by 3/31/21. Limit two brake pad rebates per VIN (one per axle). Allow 6 to 8 weeks for delivery of debit card. Offer ends 2/28/21.
Purchase must be made at a participating U.S. GM dealer. See mycertifiedservicerebates.com for details and rebate form, which must be postmarked by 3/31/21. Limit one rebate per VIN. Allow 6 to 8 weeks for delivery of debit card. Offer ends 2/28/21.
Must purchase at a participating U.S. GM dealership. Retail customers with a U.S. mailing address only. See participating U.S. dealer or mycertifiedservicerebates.com for details and rebate form, which must be postmarked by 2/29/20. Limit one rebate per VIN. Allow 6 to 8 weeks for delivery of debit card. Offer ends 1/31/20.
Purchase must be made at a participating U.S. GM dealer. See mycertifiedservicerebates.com for details and rebate form, which must be postmarked by 3/31/21. Limit four $10 GM Genuine Parts or ACDelco Brake Rotor rebates per VIN. Allow 6 to 8 weeks for delivery of debit card. Offer ends 2/28/21.
24 months, 10,000 miles per year lease for well-qualified GM employees, retirees, and eligible family members with a current Chevy lease through GM Financial. Must show proof of current lease. Customer remains responsible for current lease payments. $689 due at lease signing after all offers, plus title, tax, license, and plates. No security deposit. Programs are subject to change without notice and certain restrictions may apply, see dealer for details. Offer expires 3/31/21.
OR $100 Mail-in Rebate with any other form of payment.
Purchase must be made at participating U.S. GM dealer. See mycertifiedservicerebates.com for details and rebate form, which must be postmarked by 12/31/20. Allow 6 to 8 weeks for delivery of debit card. Offer ends 11/30/2020.
$200 Rebate: Credit approval required. Terms and conditions apply. Talk to your participating Service Advisor to apply.
OR $70 Mail-in Rebate with any other form of payment.
Purchase must be made at participating U.S. GM dealer. See mycertifiedservicerebates.com for details and rebate form, which must be postmarked by 12/31/20. Allow 6 to 8 weeks for delivery of debit card. Offer ends 11/30/2020.
$140 Rebate: Credit approval required. Terms and conditions apply. Talk to your participating Service Advisor to apply.
OR $50 Mail-in Rebate with any other form of payment.
Purchase must be made at participating U.S. GM dealer. See mycertifiedservicerebates.com for details and rebate form, which must be postmarked by 12/31/20. Allow 6 to 8 weeks for delivery of debit card. Offer ends 11/30/2020.
$100 Rebate: Credit approval required. Terms and conditions apply. Talk to your participating Service Advisor to apply.
1 Based on retail registrations in the Detroit designated market area, through June 2019.
2 EPA-estimated 26 MPG city/31 highway with 1.5L engine (FWD).
1 With second-row seats folded flat. Cargo and load capacity limited by weight and distribution.
1 Vehicle user interface is a product of Apple and its terms and privacy statements apply. Requires compatible iPhone and data plan rates apply. Apple CarPlay is a trademark of Apple Inc. Siri, iPhone and iTunes are trademarks of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries.
2 Vehicle user interface is a product of Google, and its terms and privacy statements apply. Requires the Android Auto app on Google Play and an Android compatible smartphone running Android™ 5.0 Lollipop or higher. Data plan rates apply. Android Auto is a trademark of Google LLC.
3 Service varies with conditions and location. Requires active service plan and paid AT&T Data plan. See onstar.com for details and limitations.
1 Excludes GM vehicles.
2 Class is Half-Ton Full-Size Pickup segment.
1 Premier model shown seats up to eight. Nine-passenger seating available on LS models only, with available front-row split-bench seat.
2 With second- and third-row seats folded flat. Cargo and load capacity limited by weight and distribution.
3 With 5.3L EcoTec3 V8 engine. Requires 2WD and available Max Trailering Package. Before you buy a vehicle or use it for trailering, carefully review the Trailering section of the Owner’s Manual. The weight of passengers, cargo and options or accessories may reduce the amount you can tow.
1 Vehicle user interface is a product of Apple, and its terms and privacy statements apply. Requires compatible iPhone, and data plan rates apply. Apple CarPlay is a trademark of Apple Inc. Siri, iPhone and iTunes are trademarks of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries.
2 Vehicle user interface is a product of Google, and its terms and privacy statements apply. Requires the Android Auto app on Google Play and an Android compatible smartphone running Android™ 5.0 Lollipop or higher. Data plan rates apply. Android Auto is a trademark of Google LLC.
3 Based on GM Large SUV segment. With 5.3L EcoTec3 V8 engine. EPA-estimated MPG city/highway: Tahoe 2WD 15/22, 4WD 15/21.
1 98.2 cu. ft. with second- and third- row seats folded flat. Cargo and load capacity limited by weight and distribution.
1 With rear seats folded flat. Cargo and load capacity limited by weight and distribution.
2 EPA-estimated 26 MPG city/31 highway (FWD models).
3 Vehicle user interface is a product of Apple and its terms and privacy statements apply. Requires compatible iPhone and data plan rates apply. Apple CarPlay is a trademark of Apple Inc. Siri, iPhone and iTunes are trademarks of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries. Vehicle user interface is a product of Google, and its terms and privacy statements apply. Requires the Android Auto app on Google Play and an Android compatible smartphone running Android(TM) 5.0 Lollipop or higher. Data plan rates apply. Android Auto is a trademark of Google LLC.
1 EPA-estimated MPG city/highway: 26/34.
2 The 2016 Chevrolet Sonic received the fewest reported problems in its segment in J.D. Power’s 2019 U.S. Vehicle Dependability Study following three years of ownership. See jdpower.com/awards for more details.
3 EPA estimate for Sonic Sedan with available 6-speed manual transmission.
1 Always use seat belts and child restraints. Children are safer when properly secured in a rear seat in the appropriate child restraint. See the Owner’s Manual for more information.
1 EPA-estimated MPG city/highway: 26/34.
2 The 2016 Chevrolet Sonic received the fewest reported problems in its segment in J.D. Power’s 2019 U.S. Vehicle Dependability Study following three years of ownership. See jdpower.com/awards for more details.
3 EPA estimate for Sonic Sedan with available 6-speed manual transmission.
1 Chevrolet Infotainment System functionality varies by model. Full functionality requires compatible Bluetooth and smartphone, and USB connectivity for some devices.
2 Service varies with conditions and location. Requires active service plan and paid AT&T Data plan. See onstar.com for details and limitations.
1 EPA-estimated 259-mile EV range. Your actual range may vary based on several factors, including temperature, terrain, battery age, and how you use and maintain your vehicle.
2 Charging rate varies based on output of the charge unit, vehicle settings and outside temperature.
1Chevrolet Infotainment System functionality varies by model. Full functionality requires compatible Bluetooth and smartphone, and USB connectivity for some devices.
1 Based on initial vehicle movement. Coupe models with available 10-speed paddle-shift automatic transmission.
please update disclaimer
1Standard on all trims: Automatic Emergency Braking, Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning, Forward Collision Alert, Front Pedestrian Braking, Following Distance Indicator and IntelliBeam. Read the vehicle Owner’s Manual for more important feature limitations and information.
1. App functionality and features vary with vehicle equipment and trim level. Data connection may be required. Some features require active service plan and working electrical system. User terms and limitations apply.
1 2WD diesel models. 4×4 diesel models except ZR2 have 7,600 lbs. of towing capability. ZR2 diesel models have 5,000 lbs. of towing capability. Requires available Z82 Trailering Package. Before you buy a vehicle or use it for trailering, carefully review the Trailering section of the Owner’s Manual. The weight of passengers, cargo and options or accessories may reduce the amount you can tow.
2 EPA-estimated 30 MPG highway for Colorado 2WD with available Duramax 2.8L Turbo-Diesel engine.
1 Colorado 2WD with available 3.6L V6 engine. Before you buy a vehicle or use it for trailering, carefully review the Trailering section of the Owner’s Manual. The weight of passengers, cargo and options or accessories may reduce the amount you can tow.
1 EPA-estimated 26 MPG city/31 highway with 1.5L engine (FWD).
1 High Country, LTZ, LT Trail Boss, RST, LT, Custom Trail Boss, Custom, Work Truck
1 With second-row seats folded flat. Cargo and load capacity limited by weight and distribution.
1 98.2 cu. ft. with second- and third- row seats folded flat. Cargo and load capacity limited by weight and distribution.
1 EPA-estimated 26 MPG city/31 highway (FWD models).