L.E.A.D. Institute Needs Assessment and Feasibility Study
Girl Scouts of SE Michigan (GSSEM)
Economic Equity
Girl Scouts of Southeastern Michigan (GSSEM) serves more than 14,800 girls in grades K-12 across eight counties, including Oakland, Macomb, Genesee, Lapeer, St. Clair, Sanilac, and parts of Wayne, Monroe, and Livingston. Through its programs, GSSEM provides opportunities in STEM, entrepreneurship, life skills, and outdoor education to help girls build courage, confidence, and character. In 2023, GSSEM began planning to create the Lead, Explore, Adventure, Discover (L.E.A.D.) Institute, an education and experience destination to be based in Detroit, MI. After initial review, GSSEM hypothesized that a decentralized version of the institute would be the most appropriate way to accomplish GSSEM’s goal of serving as a community partner and resource, filling the gaps in educational and recreational opportunities for southeast Michigan’s young people.
Fourth Economy was engaged to conduct a feasibility study to help guide the growth of the L.E.A.D. Institute.
Our Approach
Our team applied an asset-based framework that honored GSSEM’s century-long role in Southeastern Michigan while addressing barriers to access. We engaged stakeholders to identify community strengths and aspirations, positioning GSSEM as a trusted partner in underserved neighborhoods.
The Results
The study delivered clear assessments of GSSEM’s organizational capacity, community needs, and service area trends, alongside actionable recommendations to reduce barriers and strengthen partnerships. It also produced site analyses, cost projections, an economic impact report, and a funding strategy, equipping GSSEM with a practical roadmap to establish sustainable community hubs.
Location
Southeast Michigan