Our primary Urban Agriculture activity, Sankofa Community Garden, has its roots in the growing urban farming and agriculture movement. This 8-week community-focused gardening program exposes 6-15 year old youth to all aspects of organic gardening and urban agriculture while providing education and an opportunity for physical activity. The garden provides an environment for hands-on, interactive, guided instruction to participating youth while also making garden plots available to community residents. Resident plots may be use for planting crops or as a commemorative flower garden. Sankofa Community Garden is used in conjunction with our Food Champions and Health and Nutrition program series. Sankofa Community Garden grew out of the urban farming and agriculture movement. It is an 8-week “teaching and learning” program which exposes youth 6-15 years to all aspects of organic gardening and urban agriculture while also providing an opportunity for physical activity.

News and events

Everyday is Black History

Every single day presents a unique and invaluable opportunity to honor and celebrate the incredibly rich and diverse history of Black culture, as well as the countless and invaluable contributions it has made to our society throughout the centuries. "There is too much history to fit into 28 days." - Cheikh A.B. Mbacke, Sankofa Learning Center Director and Friends of Royal Oak Township Co-Founder.

Honoring History and Education

In 2021, the Michigan Historical Commission approved FOROT’s application to erect a historical marker designated for Ulysses S. Grant Elementary School built in 1926 and located in Royal Oak Charter Township (Oakland County, MI). The school was at the center of a protracted school desegregation battle. FOROT is pleased to announce the historic marker was installed in July 2023. An installation ceremony will be held to honor the permanent placement of the marker at the former Ulysses S. Grant Elementary School. We encourage you to visit and read the text on both sides of the marker and capture an image of this historic marker. Community members in addition to state, county, local officials, civic leaders, and supporters will be invited to the unveiling. Stay tuned!

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Black Excellence Award

On Thursday, February 16th the Oakland County Board of Commissioners recognized Brigitte R. Hall, FOROT President as winner of their 2023 Black Excellence Award. In presenting the award annually, Commissioners honor an outstanding Black resident of Oakland County who has taken strides to improve the community, made notable achievements or is otherwise worthy of recognition in honor of Black History Month.

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100 Years Celebration

An unforgettable celebration of Royal Oak Township’s 100-year anniversary. It began in 1921, circa, when the first plot of land was sold to a person of African ancestry. Uplifting and acknowledging this momentous occasion inspired members of the community, volunteers, and partners to reflect on our rich history, achievements, and milestones. We took the opportunity to honor the hard work and dedication of the many individuals who have contributed over the years, and to celebrate our ongoing commitment to building a stronger and more vibrant community

FOROT on the Move

Contrary to urban myth 13 is not unlucky, it stands for direction and pragmatism. As FOROT entered its 13th year our primary focus is on building a secure foundation for the future. We are continuing our developing new leadership, building awareness. Accordingly, in 2023 we are steadily moving our 2010 founding pillars of advocacy efforts forward. Cultural Enrichment, Health and Wellness Promotion, Urban Agriculture, and Historical Preservation.
We are now located at 17360 W. Eight Mile Road in Southfield in our new administrative office and cultural center. This new location houses our Sankofa Learning Center which will provide programs with focus on many of our core components for children, youth, and families. The newly formed Historical Society of Royal Oak Charter Township is also housed in our new location.

FOROT attends Small Business Leaders Event in Detroit with Governor

FOROT was among many community organizations invited to the Small Business Owners and leaders’ special networking event, with the opportunity to hear from Governor Gretchen Whitmer in Detroit, Michigan.