For more than three decades, the Trumbullplex collective has offered Detroit a rare kind of community space with concerts and events on a donation basis, including free programs for DJs and artists, and perpetually affordable housing in the Woodbridge neighborhood.
Now the collective is asking the community to give back.
Facing urgent repairs before the winter sets in, Trumbullplex is trying to raise $25,000 through a GoFundMe and other efforts. So far, they’ve raised about $6,600 and chipped in their own $7,000 to replace a boiler, an expense that has wiped out their savings.
But much more is needed for electric work, a furnace, and a broken garage door. Electrical upgrades will cost another $7,500, while other repairs could run tens of thousands of dollars. Eventually the group will need to replace its roof at an estimated cost of $70,000.
“With the problems, it has been impossible for Trumbullplex to host any big events,” Lulu, a collective member who asked that her last name not be used, tells Metro Times. “We haven’t been doing any gatherings unless we know there are going to be a small number of people, but certainly we can’t have concerts or parties because we have electricity issues.”
The Trumbullplex owns a pair of Victorian-era houses and a performance space at 4210 Trumbull. Founded in 1993, the space has deep roots in punk and anarchist culture, with a mission of resisting gentrification and providing accessible space for creativity and community. Its programs include Homie Hangz, a free DJ workshop that provides lessons, industry-standard equipment, and community support.
“Hundreds of people have come through the Homie Hangz,” Lulu said. “There are dozens or more who have learned how to DJ here and be present in the community and do gigs.”
For Lulu and mother members, the most important part of Trumbullplex is the space that brings people together.
“Our main focus is the community gathering space because that is something everybody uses,” Lulu says. “We always prioritize that space over any space on the property, including the space we live in.”
The collective is planning more free or donation-based events, including movie nights, game nights, dance classes, yoga, and community panels. But first, they need to stabilize the space.
Lulu says this is the first fundraiser since she joined the collective about four years ago.
“That’s a really big goal,” Lulu says of the $25,000 fundraising target. “We don’t usually ask people for money.”
In addition to donations, Trumbullplex is encouraging musicians, artists, and venues to hold benefit shows and consider donating equipment that was damaged this summer.
“If anyone wanted to donate a portion of the proceeds to Trumbullplex or if any venues wanted to give a space to throw a benefit or show, that would be helpful,” Lulu said.
Despite the financial hurdles, the collective remains committed to its mission.
“Everyone is welcome,” Lulu says. “We want to save this space.”
Donations can be made through the Trumbullplex GoFundMe page.
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