Join us for some friendly competition as we host DJC’s first Black August Scavenger Hunt!

Form your own team, or join someone else’s, and compete in a race across the city of Detroit, solving clues that will give you a firsthand look at the work we do at the Detroit Justice Center.

You’ll meet our staff, learn about the impact we’re making, and see for yourself exactly how we’re advancing the fight for freedom in Detroit.

After the scavenger hunt, we’ll have a community gathering at the Oakland Avenue Urban Farm to award the winner, break bread, and connect with each other.

DJC’s work is rooted in a long legacy of struggle. Each year, Black August is recognized as an annual celebration of the Black liberation movement and a time to call to free those who are imprisoned for engaging in that fight.

This Black August, deepen your knowledge and engagement with the movement for Black liberation happening right here in Detroit by being in community with DJC.

COVID-19 precautions: We have your safety in mind as the pandemic continues. Scavenger hunt teams are self-selected, so you can opt to participate with people you feel safe around. Our community gathering that follows will take place outdoors with plenty of distance to minimize risks as much as possible. Masks are encouraged, but not required, to keep everyone healthy.

† Do you want to participate, but in a different way? Perhaps you can’t make the scavenger hunt, but you want to join us for the community gathering afterwards? Or you just want to make an impact this month? Read our FAQs below to learn about different ways to get involved.

FAQ’s:

Where can I learn more about the significance of Black August?

Check out our blog post on commemorating Black August and its relevance to our work.

How do I create a scavenger hunt team?

Create your team using this registration link. For the question: “How are you participating in the scavenger hunt?” select: “I’m going to be a Team Lead.”

How can I invite people to join my team?

Share the registration link with anyone you’d like to join you. Have them register and answer the question: “How are you participating in the scavenger hunt?” with: “I’m participating on someone else’s Team.” They will be required to type in the name of a Team Leader and can enter yours!

How many people can be on one team?

Each team can have 2 or more members.

What is the cost to participate?

The base amount to cover the cost of participating is $20 per adult. Supporters with the capacity to give more are encouraged to do so! If the cost is inhibitive, please reach out to Carly to learn about volunteer opportunities that can grant you free entry at: cpriehs@detroitjustice.org.

Is this a family friendly event?

Yes! Families of all sizes and ages are welcome to participate. While we encourage youth and teens to fundraise as well, kids under 18 can participate for free. Just be sure to let us know how many kids are joining you when you register.

How will the scavenger hunt work?

All participants will meet at the Oakland Ave. Urban Farm on August 31 at 4:30pm to kick off the scavenger hunt and receive their first clue. The scavenger hunt will consist of a handful of stops located across the city of Detroit. Teams will compete to solve all of the clues and take a photo at each location before meeting back at the Farm at 6:00pm.

What do I need to be able to participate?

At least one member of your team will need access to a car. The stops on the scavenger hunt will all be located in Detroit, but driving will be required to reach all of the locations. At least one team member will also need access to a cellphone with camera and texting capabilities. Teams will take a photo when they arrive at each location and text it to DJC.

What will we do at the community gathering?

All participants – whether they’ve completed the scavenger hunt or not – will meet at the Oakland Avenue Urban Farm from 6:00-7:30pm for a community gathering. We’ll announce the winning team, share in a meal together, and connect with each other.

What do I get if I win?!

A special prize – meet us at the finish line to find out!

When is the deadline to register?

The registration form will remain open until August 25, 2022 or until we reach capacity.

Can I invite my network to make a donation on behalf of my team?

Yes! Individuals don’t have to participate in the scavenger hunt to make an impact this Black August. Share the registration link with your network and have them answer the question: “How are you participating in the scavenger hunt?” with: “I won’t be participating, but I’d like to make a gift on behalf of a Team Leader.” They can enter your name and make a donation on your behalf.

† I can’t make it to the scavenger hunt, but I’d love to attend the community gathering at 6:00pm. How can I get involved?

Click on the registration link and answer the question: “How are you participating in the scavenger hunt?” with: “I won’t be participating, but I’d like to show my support.” Anyone who gives at least $20 is welcome to join! If the cost is prohibitive, please reach out to Carly to explore volunteer opportunities at cpriehs@detroitjustice.org.

† I can’t make it to any portion of the event. Can I still show my support? 

Yes! You can show your support by:

(1) making a one-time donation: Click on the registration link, select: “I won’t be participating, but I’d like to show my support” and you can still make an impact this Black August; or

(2) setting up your own online, peer-to-peer fundraiser to mobilize your network into our movement against mass incarceration. Learn more about how to set up a fundraiser here.

Everyone who fundraises for us will receive a special recap video message of the scavenger hunt that’ll make you feel like you were right there with us. Plus: The individual who mobilizes the most people (not necessarily the most money) through their fundraiser page will also receive a special prize mailed to their home…!

Additional information will be provided in advance of the event. Please reach out to Carly if you have any immediate questions at cpriehs@detroitjustice.org.