New Wyandotte Non-Profit Advocates Shopping Local

Several Wyandotte business owners recently formed a non-profit organization to support businesses within the city.

Love Wyandotte, created by the Wyandotte Independent Business Alliance (WIBA), offers residents a chance to save money by shopping local.

Love Wyandotte President Peter Rose, owner of Chelsea's Menswear and Shoes in Downtown Wyandotte, said the organization helps keep locally spent dollars in the community, which, in turn, stimulates the local economy and provides additional jobs.

"We are actively recruiting members and leadership to the organization," Rose said.

Wyandotte residents, businesses and non-profit organizations can join Love Wyandotte for an annual fee. The fee is $25 for residents and $250 for Wyandotte businesses and non-profits.

Residents who are Love Wyandotte members get an Alliance Benefit Card, which can help local shoppers save money or receive additional services when presented at participating businesses in Wyandotte.

Participating businesses are expected to have the Love Wyandotte logo located in a window at the front of the business. An example of the logo can be found at the Love Wyandotte website.

Some participating businesses include:

• Portofino
• Michelangelo's Italian Steakhouse
• Wyandotte Welding Supply
• Campbell-York Catering & Banquet Event Center
• Chelsea's
• Willow Tree

Rose said businesses and non-profits that participate can expect an increase in awareness of the importance of supporting local businesses throughout the entire city--not just downtown.

"Non-profits need more exposure, becoming a member lists them on the (Love Wyandotte) website," Rose said.

Rose added $5 of every membership sign-up will go to participating non-profits.

The WIBA is a non-profit that is catalytic in the creating of a collaborative network involving three primary segments of the Wyandotte community including residents, businesses and other non-profits, according to a WIBA release.

Love Wyandotte is also an affiliate of the American Independent Business Alliance, which also advocates for local businesses.

For more information visit the Love Wyadotte website, call the Wyandotte Independent Business Association at 734-282-6030 or "like" Love Wyandotte on Facebook.