Part 1 – From Abandoned to Empowered: Angie Starr’s Vision to Transform Detroit Schools into Shelter

When Angie Starr launched the first "Solutions Not Slogans" live podcast, she didn’t just want to talk—she wanted change. The episode opened with heartbreak: the story of children who froze to death in a van near Greektown Casino. For Angie, the tragedy was not just news. It was a call to action. "They don't pick their circumstances," she said of the children. "They’re just trying to survive and become adults."

Angie’s proposal was bold: convert Detroit’s many abandoned schools into emergency shelters. She outlined a clear plan—rehab one school at a time, install beds and security, and create a clean, safe place for those in crisis.

Her funding idea was equally innovative: Detroit is home to over 4,000 churches. If just half donated $500 a month, that would generate $1 million monthly. "You get the mention," Angie said, referring to Beasley Media’s radio shout-outs, "and you help the community."

Guests like Cleo and Stephanie echoed her vision. Cleo, a retired DOT worker, pointed out that city employees qualify for half-off land bank homes, and these properties could be transformed into multi-family units. Stephanie mentioned grant options through the Greater Detroit Realtors Association to fund renovations of abandoned properties.

"I just feel," Angie said, "that every human being should have a place to go if times get hard."