Singer and songwriter Mike Posner, who has penned hits for Justin Bieber, is involved in a project that combines his passion for giving back and his hometown pride. A Detroit native, like Bob Seger, Madonna and Eminem, Posner has teamed up with Tom’s of Maine to help bring goodness where it’s needed.
How so? Well, he is taking part in the brand’s annual “50 States for Good” program as a judge, and as part of this year’s campaign, Posner is helping to shine a spotlight on a park in need along Eight Mile Road in Detroit. Every social action brings much needed improvements to the park.
We got the scoop from Posner about the initiative. It’s really cool.
(Related Post: Vote to Support the Revitalization of Eight Mile’s Knudsen Park)
What will the revitalization entail and how involved will you be in the process or the follow-through?
The revitalization will entail everything from putting in benches made from up-cycled materials to a new swing set, basketball court, art installation and more. You can show your support at TomsOfMaine.com and check out our progress on Facebook throughout October. There’s an amazing group of volunteers in the area who love and tend to this park in their spare time so it will continue to get maintained in the years ahead.
What does being a judge in this project entail?
I get a chance to learn about the inspiring grassroots efforts that are improving communities in every state of this country. The organizations leading it, the volunteers that are making it happen and innovative ideas that will bring lasting, positive change. That’s why the program is called 50 States for Good. I think Tom’s of Maine is doing a great thing.
What is the biggest misconception about your home city of Detroit? Will this park upgrade and project perhaps help locals and change perception?
The biggest misconception about Detroit is that there is nothing cool going on there. Everyone has heard the Census numbers and seen the bad headlines in the national news, but what gets missed is the emerging Downtown and Midtown areas full of young professionals and a blossoming artist community. As far as this project, it’s a small step in the right direction.
And catch us up on what’s going on with you musically? New music? New songs for Bieber? Others? Who?
I’m currently working on my sophomore LP, as well as writing for other artists. In addition to my own material, I’ve been writing with/for Justin Bieber, Maroon 5, Nick Jonas and Avicii.
Will you ever live in Detroit/Michigan again?
Honestly, the only thing keeping me away is the winter. Typically, I visit Detroit once per month. My parents live there. It’s home.
What can you do to support this initiative? The Knudsen Park Virtual Volunteer Project began on Wednesday, August 20, 2014 and ends on Friday, October 31, 2014. Visit http://www.tomsofmaine.com/community/50SFG-2014/overlay/Virtual-Volunteer today to learn how you can help out with just a few clicks!
