Author

Layla McMurtrie

Layla McMurtrie is a Detroit-based journalist covering arts, culture, and community. Her work highlights local creatives, nonprofits, and grassroots initiatives shaping the city. Aside from writing, she is the co-founder of The Vision Detroit, an arts nonprofit that provides young local artists with accessible creative events and opportunities. She also hosts Tell A Vision, a podcast for The Vision Detroit that spotlights Detroit artists. Her work has appeared in Metro Times, Between the Lines/Pride Source, Detroit Free Press, and other Michigan publications.

Layla McMurtrie's Latest Articles

These 3 Pontiac initiatives are igniting citywide momentum

In Pontiac, a series of ambitious community-driven initiatives is redefining what local revitalization looks like.

Detroit’s community development leaders, friends and champions celebrate collaboration, progress

Detroit’s CDO VIP Expo brought together community development organizations from across the city to celebrate their collective impact and deepen collaboration through the Detroit 21 network.

Adopt-A-Road volunteers cleaning up between 19 Mile and Hayes and Trainer.
Sterling Heights’ Inspiring Green Initiative revamps roadside cleanups and builds community

Sterling Heights’ Inspiring Green initiative is transforming the city’s former Adopt-A-Road program into a more sustainable, community-driven effort that combines volunteer cleanups with business sponsorships to reforest and beautify local roadways.

Huge CNC Machines at Tarus's factory in Sterling Heights.
TARUS turns 40 with bold moves and innovation in manufacturing and software

As TARUS celebrates 40 years in Sterling Heights, the Michigan-based manufacturer is forging a bold new path—combining precision tooling for critical industries with the launch of its custom-built software platform, VERAX ERP, to help manufacturers thrive.

Valerie Orr, Executive Director of Community Foundation of Monroe County
Valerie Orr Brings educator’s eye and collaborative vision to Community Foundation of Monroe County

Valerie Orr brings an educator’s perspective and collaborative spirit to her role as executive director of the Community Foundation of Monroe County.

Nonprofit Day at the Capitol, February 2025
How Michigan nonprofits are navigating federal uncertainty

Michigan nonprofits are facing uncertainty as federal funding streams fluctuate and administrative support wanes. The Michigan Nonprofit Association is helping organizations navigate this instability through advocacy, collaboration, and strategic planning.

Ashley Carter of Michigan Justice Fund and Adam Grant of A Brighter Way
Boosting resources for legal reform in Michigan

Michigan Justice Fund is pioneering a collaborative funding model to support justice reform initiatives across the state. By bringing together local and national funders, the fund invests in community-led solutions that address the long-term impact of mass incarceration.

Jeremiah Steen, Founder and Executive Director of the STEEN Foundation
The social service sector offers a rewarding career path for young people in Detroit

The nonprofit sector is often misunderstood as an unsustainable career choice, yet many young professionals are proving otherwise. Detroit-area changemakers are finding financial stability, professional growth, and purpose in nonprofit work.  

Macomb nonprofit leaders gather at Advancing Macomb's Nonprofit Roundtable to network
Advancing Macomb connects local changemakers with solutions for lasting impact

In Macomb County, collaboration is driving meaningful change. Advancing Macomb connects nonprofits, businesses and public entities to strengthen communities, boost resources, and support nonprofit sustainability through partnerships.  

Color of Autism Foundation provides training for families of autistic children
Ending the stigma of autism in communities of color

“I would go to support groups, but no one looked like me,” says Camille Proctor. She eventually founded the Color of Autism Foundation to end the stigma of autism among communities of color and create a better understanding of autism and autism services for families.  

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