1472331 CNN Heroes Top Ten 2023 - Mama Shu - Highland Park, MI- Mama Shu in the Avalon Village in Highland Park, MI on November 4, 2023. Photo by Maddie McGarvey.
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She turned her deepest grief into a vibrant oasis for her community

For 18 years, Mama Shu has channeled her grief from the tragic loss of her son into hope and opportunity for her entire Highland Park, Michigan, community – one vacant lot at a time. The oasis she’s built is known as Avalon Village.

1:34 • Source: CNN
CNN Heroes 2026 11 videos
1472331 CNN Heroes Top Ten 2023 - Mama Shu - Highland Park, MI- Mama Shu in the Avalon Village in Highland Park, MI on November 4, 2023. Photo by Maddie McGarvey.
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She turned her deepest grief into a vibrant oasis for her community
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Inside the San Bernardino cat rescue powered by social media
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NEW YORK, NY - MAY 21: Groups of children join firefighters, police, members of the military and the public in participating in the ceremonial transfer of the National 9/11 Flag into the The National September 11 Memorial Museum permanent collection on May 21, 2014 in New York City. The giant American Flag, which was flying from a building beside the World Trade Center on September 11, 2001 and was later found badly damaged in the debris of ground zero, was unfurled at the World Trade Center site in a ceremony. The flag was refolded and firefighters marched it into the museum. The National September 11 Memorial Museum opened its doors to the general public today. (Photo by Spencer Platt/Getty Images)
This CNN Hero helped restore a 9/11 artifact. He says its message is more relevant than ever
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In Syracuse, New York, CNN Hero Andrew Lunetta and his nonprofit, A Tiny Home for Good, are providing much more than shelter for unhoused people.
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‘Landlords who care’: How these tiny homes are helping unhoused people
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<p>Through his nonprofit, Creativets, 2022 CNN Hero Richard Casper brings the healing power of art and songwriting to other veterans. Today, he’s expanding his efforts to inspire and reach more veterans.</p>
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How an abandoned Nashville church is becoming a creative haven for veterans
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Mobility, employment, and hope: Meet the Mexican engineer breaking down barriers for people with disabilities
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<p>For almost three decades, 2010 CNN Hero Susan Burton and her nonprofit, A New Way of Life, have helped countless women rebuild their lives after prison. Now, she also provides a way for formerly incarcerated women to replicate her model.</p>
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From prison to purpose: How this CNN Hero has helped countless women break the cycle of incarceration
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The ‘gift of mobility’: How this CNN Hero helps people thrive after paralysis
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Uganda’s mountain gorillas were once critically endangered. Then a wildlife veterinarian began helping their human neighbors
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<p>The Phoenix, founded by 2012 CNN Hero Scott Strode, provides free fitness programs and events to support people in recovery. Today, the nonprofit has grown into a movement. </p>
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One million strong: How this CNN Hero uses the power of community to help people in recovery
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Flower Power: How this CNN Hero of the Year's mission led him to Hollywood
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