Impacting lives with the jobs we create and the coats we make
Maxwell Detroit was launched within Empowerment Plan, a non-profit that provides employment for homeless individuals to manufacture sleeping bag coats for those in need. At our core, Maxwell Detroit is about more than a coat, it’s about closing the revolving door on homelessness and creating sustainable jobs for those fighting systemic poverty.
Maxwell Detroit is introducing two new coats, for the first time, to the public. Made in Detroit, our cut and sew team is highly skilled and proud to bring you the best product. They have faced some of life’s toughest challenges, yet continue to persevere and come out the other side – stronger. When you put your coat on, you are wearing the story of someone who understands what hard work means. Wear Maxwell Detroit with pride.
- Runs true to size with room for layering (fit guide below)
- Sports a detachable quilted hood, allowing easy transition between convenience and comfort
- Features two large interior chest pockets and two large ergonomically placed exterior side pocket
- Drawstring on the insides of the jacket provides additional customizability of fit
- Incorporates raglan sleeves allowing wider degree of motion for your arms and room for layering
- Provides a unique hands-free coat carry system with heavy duty HK metal clip and D ring, allowing the ability to carry the jacket like a shoulder or sling bag
- Runs true to size with room for layering (fit guide below)
- Sports a detachable quilted hood, allowing easy transition between convenience and comfort
- Features two large interior chest pockets and two large ergonomically placed exterior side pocket
- Back elastic waist cincher for formed-fitting silhouette
- Incorporates raglan sleeves allowing wider degree of motion for your arms and room for layering
- Provides a unique hands-free coat carry system with heavy duty HK metal clip and D ring, allowing the ability to carry the jacket like a shoulder or sling bag
- Runs large for sleeping bag use (fit guide below)
- Sports a detachable quilted hood, allowing easy transition between convenience and comfort
- Features two large interior chest pockets and two large ergonomically placed exterior side pocket
- Drawstring on the insides of the jacket provides additional customizability of fit
- Incorporates raglan sleeves allowing wider degree of motion for your arms and room for layering
- Provides a unique hands-free coat carry system with heavy duty HK metal clip and D ring, allowing the ability to carry the jacket like a shoulder or sling bag
- Includes detachable footbag that uses velcro and snaps to be separated when not in use or folded and attached to the back of the coat from inside
- Footbag incorporates a webbing handle which could be used as a handbag
- All sizes fit up to 6’5″ tall
- Uses: Ideal for outdoor and sporting activities
Meet the Team
After an unexpected change in Aaron’s employment he was left lost and in search of another way to stay afloat. His prior experience in the manufacturing space allowed him to jump right in with our team and to bring a new perspective to our process. Aaron knows what it is like to lose everything overnight, yet chooses to use that as encouragement to fight harder. His contagious laugh keeps the team spirit high and can be heard over the rumble of the sewing machines.
Since the day Cat joined our team she brought a renewed sense of purpose and focus to the organization. One of the best problem solvers out there, Cat is always willing to go the extra mile and will not stop until she has an answer. Her hard work and determined spirit have played a huge role in the launch of Maxwell Detroit and will continue to push the company forward. Did we mention she also has a little one at home, so the work really doesn’t stop!
Ebonie has used her unexpected struggles as a homeless, single mother to shape her into the strong woman she is today. She understands exactly what hard work means and translates that energy into each coat she makes. A natural-born learner, Ebonie is constantly striving to advance her skills and to rise up as a leader within the organization. She wants to prove to her three young children that although her past is part of who she is, she will not let it not define who she has become. With the brightest smile around, Ebonie is guaranteed to leave you feeling grateful and inspired!
Driven by her desire to push boundaries for the greater good of the community, Erika looks at whatever is tossed her way as a new opportunity. From fundraising, to social media, to throwing an amazing event, you can always count on her to get the job done. Her dedication to the work we do has been evident since day one and is visible through her strong work ethic and positive attitude. Erika’s contagious energy and never-give-up mindset play a major role in pushing our collective vision forward.
When hard times hit, Jessica found herself living out of her car with her young family before ending up at a homeless shelter. Joining our team in an attempt to elevate her family from that situation, Jessica jumped right in with a no-excuse, get the job done attitude. As a mother of young children, Jessica understands the importance of patience and has used that knowledge to become a great team leader. Jessica’s commitment to her family is evident through her continuous efforts to grow her career and advance her education. If you need advice on how to juggle your work-life balance, Jessica is your girl!
Ree, also known as our Culture Queen, has mastered the art of creating the perfect work environment. Her serious yet playful personality strikes the perfect balance with our team. Although Ree’s really in charge of implementing and evaluating our organization’s policies and practices, she always finds a way to celebrate our successes and to reflect on the journey ahead.
Having been a project/knowledge manager for many years across various industries, Quiana set out to align her profession with great purpose and passion, which landed her right onto our team. Along with her skills and expertise, having such a positive attitude and commitment to our vision makes Quiana a valued addition to the Maxwell Detroit family.
Being unemployed and homeless were never part of Star’s plan, but after leaving an abusive relationship that is exactly where she found herself. Motivated by her two children, Star prides herself on being an expert seamstress focused on delivering the highest quality product.
Star is also sure to always keep things exciting with her bigger-than-life personality! She pays careful attention to the feelings of those around her and knows exactly what the team needs at all times, whether that be an extra laugh or an encouraging boost to keep fighting.
Challenged with raising her son on her own while facing homelessness, Ronnie knows what it is like to feel discouraged, but you would never know that based on the joy that constantly radiates from her. Ronnie speaks with intention and has a way of looking at any situation from a positive viewpoint. Although on the quieter side, her smile says it all and is bound to inspire even in the most difficult times. She is creative in the most unexpected ways and brings more value to the team and the company than we can express!
Ask us who the toughest person we know is and Takecia’s name immediately comes to mind. She has been dealt some of life’s most difficult challenges, yet continues to face adversity with grace. Her strong work ethic and sense of discipline have helped her excel at work and at home, as a mother to two young children. She is speedy, yet meticulous with her work and leads by example. Takecia is deeply invested in the work we do and takes great pride in the role she will continue to play in the success of the organization moving forward. Takecia is definitely proving to her children that you really can achieve what you put your mind to.
With over 20 years of experience in the garment industry, Kristen understands everything from high-end couture to streetwear. She’s also worked on developing new fabrics and has extensive knowledge about every last detail that goes into creating and delivering a top quality garment. With each compliment you receive in your new coat, you’ve got Kristen to thank!
If Veronika would have told you five years ago that Empowerment Plan would be a nationally recognized organization launching a retail line of coats, you probably would have told her she was crazy. But by staying true to the core of the mission and focusing on a vision for permanent generational change, she has done just that. Her creativity is unparalleled and serves as a constant reminder to never settle for the status quo. Veronika’s forward thinking mindset has paved the way for large scale lasting impact in communities around the world. We cannot wait to see what the next five years bring her way!
PS – she’s not crazy, she’s just the Crazy Coat Lady
Why Maxwell? Annis Maxwell was our den mother at Empowerment Plan. She was the one that always had your back and promised you that everything is going to be alright. In 2014 Annis collapsed on her way home and died from a heart attack. At her funeral everyone talked about Annis’ life in two parts: before and after. It wasn’t until her son got up to speak did we realize what that meant. “Thank you Empowerment Plan. I’ve gotten to know my mom more in the last three years than I did her entire life. You gave my daughter her grandmother back.” Before Empowerment Plan, Annis was sleeping on the streets. After her time with us, she was able to leave a house, a car, and a whole legacy behind for her family. Every day, Annis reminds us that it’s never too late to live the life you deserve. Her legacy lives on within Maxwell Detroit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Orders placed before December 12th will receive their product(s) by Dec. 22nd, 2017. Orders placed after December 12th will receive their product(s) in January 2018.
We’ll ship anything on our site to anywhere in the United States for free.
Since Maxwell Detroit is in beta, we only ship to the USA and Canada at this time. We are working on bringing Maxwell Detroit everywhere around the world. Email us at info@maxwelldetroit.com to let us know where you live.
When your order ships, you’ll receive an email confirmation with the tracking number(s) and estimated delivery date(s).
Free returns are included on all purchases. Items must be unused and unwashed. You must have an original receipt or packing slip to complete your return. Completed return form must be included to process return. Return within 60 days using the postage-paid return label included with purchase. Your return will be processed within 10-14 business days.
To learn more about Empowerment Plan, visit www.empowermentplan.org.
Contact Us
Have a question? Please read over the FAQs and if your question isn’t answered, fill out the contact form below and a team member will get back to you as soon as we can.
