Our Mission

The Kulick Center is the only accessible green space within a three-quarter-mile radius—a vital oasis in the heart of Ferndale. Without it, residents would be forced to cross major roads and travel significant distances to reach another park or open area. In a city where walkability and community connection are so deeply valued, preserving this space is not just a matter of convenience—it’s essential for public health, property value, and collective well-being. Accessible green space is linked to lower stress levels, stronger neighborhood bonds, and higher home values. The Kulick grounds offer more than just grass and trees—they offer breathing room in an increasingly crowded metropolitan landscape.

Gerry "Jerry" Kulick, was a dedicated Ferndale civic leader, who served on the Ferndale City Council from 1998 until her passing in 2000. She was deeply involved in local organizations—most notably as president of several community boards—and worked for many years as editor of the Ferndale Gazette. A passionate advocate for community togetherness, she played a key role in transforming the former school into a welcoming community hub. Her commitment to Ferndale's growth and cohesion continues to inspire the mission of the Gerry Kulick Community Center. Even as the building now stands closed, her spirit and dedication live on in the effort to preserve this vital public space.

The Kulick Center serves as a vital nesting site for chimney swifts, a small migratory bird whose populations have been in alarming decline across North America. These remarkable birds rely on tall, open chimneys like those found at the Kulick Center for shelter and breeding during their migrations. As traditional nesting structures disappear from city landscapes, places like the Kulick Center have become essential to the species' survival. In recognition of this ecological importance, the Detroit Bird Alliance has joined our coalition to protect the Kulick Center and the surrounding green space. Their support underscores the urgent need to preserve this rare habitat, not just for chimney swifts, but for the broader environmental health and biodiversity of our city. Protecting the Kulick Center is not just about a building; it’s about honoring the intricate, living systems that depend on it.