A number of great examples of creative re-use of abandoned educational facilities exist around the Midwest. One example that may be relevant to Detroit is the Irish American Heritage Center [[IAHC) in Chicago. Over 25 years ago, a group of dedicated volunteers purchased an abandoned middle school [[Mayfair School) on the northwest side of the city and transformed the facilities into a focal point for the Irish community of the entire metropolitan area hosting various cultural events, concerts, festivals, etc.

A number of old classrooms were transformed into new venues: [[a) the Fifth Province pub lounge, [[b) library, [[c) art gallery, [[d) small theater, and [[e) museum. Other classrooms were preserved for step dancing, music, and language lessons. The old student assembly hall was transformed into a theater/concert venue. The most recent renovations relate to the transformation of the old gymnasium into the “Erin Room” with facilities to host large meetings, dinners, and wedding receptions.

Here is a link for further information: http://irish-american.org/index.php?...tpage&Itemid=1

Could some of Detroit’s abandoned schools be preserved and transformed in a similar manner? Detroit has a large Irish community with a number of groups centered around Corktown [[e.g., the Gaelic League, United Irish Societies, etc.). Has any of these groups thought of pooling their resources to expand their current facilities?