One of the more fun things to do on a Sunday evening in Detroit is to stop by Detroit SOUP. We’ve been to more than a few. After all, $5 for dinner and a vote to help out another Detroit cause seems like a good deal.
Since SOUP started it has been profiled quite a bit by various outlets. But in case you don’t know about it, here’s the quick rundown.
Four presenters have four minutes to present their idea to a group that’s there for the soup dinner, and answer questions from diners. After dinner, they vote — and the winner gets the pool of money for their project.
Detroit SOUP has had more than 800 ideas submitted in the last 8 years. More than $110,000 has been doled out to local Detroit projects, with prizes ranging from $700 on the low end to $1000 on an average SOUP night.
SOUP was founded by Amy Kaherl who pivoted from a theological education to becoming a DJ and devoting her life to community work.
So here’s the deal. Kaherl is nominated to be a NationSwell AllStar, for “encouraging advancements in education and environmental sustainability, making government work better for its citizens, engaging people in national service, advancing the American dream and supporting our veterans.”
If she wins, she will receive $10,000 to further her project. Kaherl’s project Detroit SOUP is the only Detroit-area entry.
If you’re so inclined, head over here and give a vote. It’s free, and the button is at the bottom of the page when you follow the link. You can vote once daily, and voting closes October 31.