March 13th, 2020 Statement on COVID-19
Dear ProsperUS Community:
Like many organizations, ProsperUS is carefully monitoring the COVID-19 issue and making plans to do our part to keep our community as safe and healthy as possible. We write you today to provide updates on how we are utilizing the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) Community Mitigation Strategies to adjust our programming and events:
Our Annual Convening & Pitch Competition, which was to take place on the evening of April 30, 2020 will be postponed until further notice. We intend to reschedule the event for a time when we can be certain of the safety of the 400 attendees we expect. We will be in touch as soon as possible about a new date. All applications for the showcase and pitch competition will be considered for the new date, with no need to re-apply. We will reach out to applicants with more information as soon as possible.
Our Spring 2020 Entrepreneurship Training Program classes are currently being scheduled, with start dates potentially in late April, 2020. These classes include up to 12 participants, and therefore pose far less of a risk to participants. We will work with our trainers and community partners to ensure that all protocols for small group meetings are being followed at our training sites. Furthermore, we will continue to monitor MDHHS’ recommendations and will adjust our timeline for Spring 2020 classes if needed.
Our Business Services and Microlending programs will continue as normal, with meetings taking place over the phone when possible.
Thank you for your understanding. We encourage everyone to take the necessary precautions for the safety of our community, especially our most vulnerable community members.
With care and in solidarity,
Chanell Scott Contreras, Director
& the ProsperUS Detroit Team
