The Detroit Football Club’s supporting group, the Northern Guard, began Prideraiser in 2017. Every goal scored over the course of June would generate money for the Ruth Ellis Center, a social services agency fighting for LGBTQ+ youth since 1999. 

Prideraiser is now celebrating 10 years in Detroit.

They earned more than $300,000 over the past 10 years, all powered by local volunteer labor. Not only do they paint banners during the month of June, but they work with the community throughout the year. “It’s amazing to see everybody participate,” says Jam Johnston, a board member of the North Guard Supporters.

Johnston and Director of Development and Advancement at the Ruth Ellis Center Jake Lenz joined The Metro to talk about how grassroots organizations came together despite corporate and sports controversies to improve the lives of young queer people.

Hear the full conversation using the media player above.

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