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MAKING MICHIGAN: Ann Arbor’s 826michigan and the Robot Supply & Repair
A family of robots gathers around the hearth and the television set in 826michigan's holiday-themed window display.
As an occasional volunteer for 826michigan, I have had practice summing up their story. Sometimes I get a blank look when I ask, "Have you heard of 826?" However, when I ask, "Do you know about the robot store on Liberty Street?" eyes light up at my mention of Robot Supply & Repair - then quickly turn puzzled again.
I like to explain that Robot Supply & Repair is 826michigan's "front," as if the Mafia were hiding out in the back room. The mob that hangs out behind the robot store serves much less sinister purposes. 826michigan hosts one-on-one after school tutoring sessions and writing workshops for students 6-18 years of age, as well as guest author-lead workshops for adults. The robot store serves as a "front" that raises funds for this educational programming, as well as additional programs in schools, creative art projects and publications.
More than a drop of childishness is added to 826's fundraising events. Their events have a reputation for being zany and playful, although they also know how to class-it-up. If you are looking for a good party around the turn of the New Year, 826 is hosting Mittenfest IV on December 31 - January 3, at the Elbow Room in Ypsilanti. The festival will feature forty bands over four days. The Red Wings are sponsoring the event this year.
826 National has locations in six other cities with themed-storefronts. The organization was founded by non-profit administrator Nínive Clements Calegari and acclaimed writer Dave Eggers, who recently co-wrote the film "Where the Wild Things Are" with Spike Jonze. 826michigan and Robot Supply & Repair is located at 115 East Liberty Street in Ann Arbor.
Visit http://www.826michigan.org/to learn about events, news, how to volunteer and opportunities for giving.
Submitted by Jennifer Eberbach of Ann Arbor
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