
The 49507 Project is a POC-LGBTQ and youth-led project, rooted in collaboration, that teaches art and event organizing, and commissions community art for and by people of color in the 49507 neighborhood.

Can Community Outreach Be Organic?
Can we use art to further activate neighbors, shift power dynamics in historically underserved areas, and more importantly, change the narrative?
The 49507 Project: Load-A-Spud- Location 5

The 49507 Project: Load-A-Spud- Location 5

Project 49507 is a POC-LGBTQ and youth-led project, rooted in collaboration, that teaches art and event organizing, and commissions community art for and by people of color in the 49507 neighborhood.
Can Community Outreach Be Organic?
Can we use art to further activate neighbors, shift power dynamics in historically underserved areas, and more importantly, change the narrative?
Can we plant seeds that will bloom into the south side becoming a Multicultural Arts District?
Load-A-Spud
My name is Eric Mondine, I am a Grand Rapids, MI native. I’ve been part of the Madison Avenue, Garfield Park neighborhood, since the late 80s, and a property owner in the area since 2006. I have seen the area thrive, and I also bear witness to the impact the drug epidemic has had on the area. I’ve witnessed factories shutter their doors, and thriving businesses close. Some due to lack of capital, others to lack of generational planning. I was fortunate enough to see the value of this business district and begin the process of revitalization before the property values in the area have skyrocketed.
Business Social Media/Website info
Website: www.loadaspudusa.com
Facebook: Load A Spud
Owner: Eric Mondine
Liberation: Liberation means to me, the ability to pursue your visions, and goals without systematic restraints impeding your progress. Liberation is the freedom to partake in American Enterprise, on equal footing, where your hard work and dedication are rewarded.
Reclamation: Reclamation to me is empowerment, it is taking control of your community, and your community’s narrative. Reclamation is starting where you are and determining your journey’s outcome.


Contact/Booking: info@thediatribe.org
We are a 501(c)3 nonprofit organizations.

Site Design by KCAD students & faculty as part of the EPIC Project.