At Urban Science, we’re committed to making a positive impact in the communities in which we work and live, and we encourage our global team members to use their talents to build a better world. In support of this goal, we launched our annual Community Giving Initiative, which gives Urban Scientists the chance to nominate a nonprofit to receive a $500 donation that meets program criteria, including close proximity to an Urban Science office location and a four-hour paid volunteerism requirement for the nominating team member.

Dee-Dee Reeves, one of this year’s Community Giving initiative participants, spent time volunteering at All Things Women, a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping women –  including veterans, survivors of domestic violence and mothers – who are experiencing housing insecurity find safety, dignity and a path forward.

Dee-Dee has been involved in other efforts to support unhoused women in Detroit, including an annual purse drive organized by her local women’s group. It was through this initiative that Dee-Dee first encountered All Things Women.

“I was immediately struck by the compassion and impact of their work,” she said. “From their community coat closet to their donation-based baby item distribution, every effort reflects genuine care. Their comprehensive services go even further, offering women sustainable new beginnings; with a 97% success rate in helping residents transition to long-term affordable housing, All Things Women truly helps give people a fresh start.”

While volunteering at All Things Women, Dee-Dee assisted the nonprofit with moving into a facility capable of serving 47 families, a significant increase from their previous 10-family shelter. The organization’s emphasis on empowerment, from creating mindfulness spaces and job training programs to supporting women who live in their cars by offering them a safe space during the day, inspired Dee-Dee right away.

Recognizing the value of accessible technology, Urban Science’s $500 donation on behalf of Dee-Dee helped support the creation of the organization’s computer lab, which provides residents with access to tools for job searches, resume-building software, homework support and more.

“At All Things Women Inc., we were deeply grateful to have Dee-Dee Reeves share her time and talents in our Emergency Shelter,” said Mena Davis, executive director at All Things Women. “She played a key role in transforming our space into one that feels safe, dignified and welcoming for women and children in crisis. Her thoughtful contributions to creating a warm and uplifting environment will leave a lasting impression on every person who walks through our doors.”

Dee-Dee’s story is one of 20 employee-driven nominations that have repeatedly shown how deeply they care about giving back. Through the 2025 Community Giving Initiative, the team was able to direct $11,500 in total corporate donations to nonprofit organizations around the world, supporting everything from conservation groups to food banks and beyond.

Beyond her individual impact, Dee-Dee noted the initiative opened her eyes to the many ways Urban Scientists are making an impact.

“Reading everyone’s stories made me realize how many amazing causes are out there,” she added. “It’s nice to know that our company cares and gives us the time and tools to make a difference in our communities.”

In addition to her volunteer experience, Dee-Dee helped to raise additional funds for All Things Women through a donation drive that offered employees the opportunity to take home used office equipment and supplies in exchange for monetary donations to pre-determined charities.

“As we often say, a shelter becomes a home not through walls and doors, but through the care and creativity poured into it,” Davis added. “Dee-Dee helped us turn our shelter into a sanctuary. We sincerely thank Urban Science for encouraging and supporting employees like Dee-Dee, whose generosity strengthens our community in such meaningful ways.”

Click here to learn more about how Urban Scientists are making a difference in the communities they live, work and visit.