Fueling Detroit Series Resource Fair connects community to local support

Community News

Detroit, Michigan, foundation
A group of people standing in line and holding bags of winter weather gear.
Community members lined up at one of 40 resource stations to learn more about the services available in the community.

Key Points

  • The Fueling Detroit Series Resource Fair brought hundreds of residents, volunteers and partners together at the Kemeny Recreation Center to connect the community with essential services and support.
  • More than 500 attendees accessed over 40 resources, including health screenings, dental care, food distribution and safety kits.
  • Hosted by the Marathon Petroleum Detroit refinery, the event highlighted strong collaboration with organizations such as Wayne State University and local agencies to create meaningful community impact.

The Fueling Detroit Series Resource Fair brought together hundreds of residents, volunteers and community partners at the Kemeny Recreation Center for a powerful day of connection, service and support. Hosted by the Marathon Petroleum Detroit refinery, the annual Resource Fair is a cornerstone event in the Fueling Detroit Series, designed to strengthen neighborhoods by improving access to essential resources and services.

A woman holds a winter hat and scarf in her hand at a table in a gym.
A resident picks up new winter weather gear from DTE Energy Company.

More than 500 community members gathered to take advantage of over 40 available resources. Attendees received free dental care, health screenings, hearing tests, and home and vehicle safety kits, along with boxes of food generously donated by community organizations. Volunteers also worked side by side to construct wheelchair ramps for nearby residents in need of mobility assistance, reinforcing the event’s focus on meeting immediate, practical needs.

Two people hold up branded bags at a table with flyers and swag on it.
Marathon employees Addie Kill and Nicole Bach handed out information about the company also with branded swag. 

The event was made possible through collaboration with Wayne State University’s AmeriCorps Urban Safety Program, the Detroit Police Department’s 4th Precinct, Detroit Parks and Recreation Department, and local leaders, underscoring the importance of working together in creating meaningful community impact. Special guests, including Detroit Police Chief Todd Bettison and the Detroit Lions’ mascot Roary, added to the welcoming, family‑friendly atmosphere.

“I felt supported, encouraged and grateful for everyone doing their part to care for our community."

For many residents, the day was deeply personal. Community member Martha Barnes, who attended the event, shared how impactful the experience was for her and her family.

Two people in black coats stand at a table where a person is sharing information.
The Health Alliance Plan Community Outreach team shared information about wellness at their booth. 

“I really enjoyed my day at the Kemeny Center,” said Barnes. “As a single mother, my struggle is real, and receiving food boxes meant more than I can express. Seeing my father there helping distribute food was overwhelming in the best way. I felt supported, encouraged and grateful for everyone doing their part to care for our community.”

Upcoming 2026 Fueling Detroit Series events:

  • April 11: Small Business Saturday
  • June 13: Health and Safety Fair
  • Aug. 13: Back to School Blitz
  • Oct. 23: Women’s Health Fair
People unload food boxes from box trucks in a parking lot.
Volunteers distributed food boxes to members of the community.