The heart of Wayne Metro is the individuals that act: servicing communities, advocating for change, and impacting the lives of Wayne County residents. Save the date for October 22nd to tune into watch the This year will spotlight powerful stories and emphasize the impact a safety net can have. We ask that you join us while we show you how we are weaving a stronger safety net for Wayne County.
Join us to watch our livestream on October 16th at 6:30 PM. Register using the link below!
Lasandra Cooks’ journey is a powerful example of what it means to be United in Action. She came to Wayne Metro in May 2024 after losing her job, falling behind on rent, losing her car, and living in unsafe housing with severe electrical issues her landlord refused to address. When those issues sparked a devastating house fire in September, Lasandra lost everything. But even in the face of unimaginable hardship, she took action. She moved in with family, began sorting out her housing situation, and was referred to Lakeshore Legal Aid when her landlord made false claims about unpaid rent.
Refusing to let setbacks define her, Lasandra enrolled in Wayne Metro’s PATH and Multi-Generation programs, secured a job at United Wholesale Mortgage in November, and has been thriving ever since. No longer reliant on programs, she’s built back stronger by securing a vehicle through Kia’s credit amnesty program and preparing to graduate from the FSS Program in March 2025 with escrow savings. Her story reflects the heart of Wayne Metro: individuals taking action, supported by a safety net that empowers people and communities to be strong, healthy, and thriving.
After the heartbreaking loss of her fiancé, the father of her two boys, she inherited his home, along with a staggering $28,000 water bill. Faced with overwhelming debt and the responsibility of providing a stable home for her family, she turned to Wayne Metro. With the support of our Lifeline program, the water bill was paid down. Through the Land Bank program, her home was revitalized with a new roof, replacement windows, and a freshly painted garage. These are improvements that transformed the space into a safe, comfortable place to rebuild. With these financial burdens behind her, Chanelle is able to focus on healing, starting therapy, and pursuing her dream of becoming a registered nurse. Today, she’s thriving in a career she loves, can provide a stable and comfortable home for her family, and is empowered to give back to her community.
In 1971, Wayne Metro was not known as “Wayne Metro!” Instead, we were called the Communities United for Action, and were located in Taylor, MI. Our founding CEO was Luther Flannigan.
In 1980, our name was changed to Wayne Metropolitan Community Services Agency. This was accompanied by a move of our headquarters to Ecorse, MI.
In 1994, the Agency reestablishes itself under a new CEO, Perry Jones. Soon after, in 1998, our last official name change is made to Wayne Metropolitan Community Action Agency.
In 2007, Perry Jones retires and our current CEO, Louis Piszker, takes charge. Under his leadership, and through the many incredible efforts of our staff, Wayne Metro becomes the State appointed Community Action Agency for the City of Detroit and Wayne County in 2015. The next year, Wayne Metro finalizes this shift by moving our headquarters to Detroit.
Wayne Metro supports all of Wayne County with more than 70 programs and over 700 employees. We are proud to serve our community as one of the most forward-thinking Community Action Agencies in the entire country!
Click on individual slider below to scroll through the years with Wayne Metro!
