Detroit youth organizations in Detroit like any org in Detroit & metro Detroit share commonalities like having huge minds and hearts. However, there’s an emphasis on protecting and uplifting the younger generations into incredible leaders. These organizations help Detroit youth from a young age and some up until they’re ready to “leave the nest.” By supporting local children/youth organizations, we are investing in the future of Detroit, through leadership that breeds more opportunities for a safe, healthy, happy, and economically rich city.
The youth and leaders are building Detroit together, and Detroitisit rounded up a like-minded list of Detroit youth organizations that we should all know about. Money is one way to support the community, but getting involved is another.
DETROIT HORSE POWER PROGRAM STUDENT CHARLES JOHNSON 13, WILLOWBROOKE FARMS IN PLYMOUTH. PHOTO LON HORWEDEL
DETROIT HORSE POWER
First up on this list of Detroit youth organizations to know about is not related to cars as the name appears to suggest. The Motor City is getting a new tune-up in the areas of youth funding. Did we mention the youth will have access to actual horses? DHP currently serves about 100 youths ages 11-18 annually through the school year and summer programs that ferry them to supportive stables as far away as Davisburg and East Lansing, while using classroom and administrative space on the Marygrove campus. Click HERE to view the 501 (c) (3) nonprofit’s website.
DHP CHERIAH ON HORSE
DETROIT YOUTH EQUESTRIAN CENTER
Remaining funds are still needed, but the current funds make the goal seem attainable! Did you know that more research is being shown that there is a growing body of research showing that youth participating in animal-assisted activities like working with horses have physical and mental benefits, including the growth of social-emotional skills? By having their own 20-horse stable and eliminating the travel times, Detroit Horse Power Executive Director David Silver said they will be able to serve 100 youth a year in a highly focused program with ample horse time. Not to mention, they can also enroll 500 in summer programs.
The organization currently maintains an extensive waiting list. The center will be built on vacant land leased from DPSCD at the site of the former Paul Robeson Academy and will include classrooms, administrative spaces, an indoor arena with bleachers, multiple outdoor riding areas, and paddocks for horses to graze.
The location of the center site will be near Fenkell and Linwood, and the Focus: HOPE campus in the Hope Village neighborhood.
MARKUIS CARTWRIGHT AND LOGAN K KNEWMAN ON LIVE IN THE D 2023, PHOTO @LIFELEADERSINCE AND @MISTER_CARTWRIGHT ON INSTAGRAM
L!FE LEADERS
Detroit youth organizations are certainly fueled by life. L!FE Leaders is another Detroit non-profit organization that nurtures & fosters passion through their workforce development. Their work is geared towards youth claiming their own power, so they can further pursue their own passions in the blossoming future. Their experience-based programs empower youth ages 14-24. They gain confidence, skills, knowledge, and relationships and have a jumpstart of opportunities to help them excel at whatever they choose. Their Fifth Annual Youth Summit 2023 just passed in September, but stay tuned for more ways of welcoming city-wide youth to where Youth & Leaders build Detroit together. Whether you’re a parent, student, or “just want to give”, click the website HERE to see how you can help!
DETROIT BLACK COMMUNITY FOOD SECURITY NETWORK
In 2022, Detroit Black Community Food Security Network (DBCFSN) received multi-year support. When you think of Detroit, you may not think of Detroit farming organizations, but this food justice group is shifting the perspective. Not to mention, it’s helping teach Detroit youth and families how to grow their own food. This money is specifically going towards extending it’s Food Warrior and Food n’ Flava Programs, both of which help youth ranging in ages 5-12 and high school-aged children respectively. Stay tuned for Detroit Commons! Click HERE to view their website.
Location: 8324 Woodward at the corner of East Euclid, Detroit
KIDS AT RECECESS WITH PLAYWORKS MICHIGAN, PHOTO PLAYWORKS MICHIGAN ON FACEBOOK
PLAYWORKS EDUCATION ORGANIZED
School is back in session. Don’t forget that schoolwork requires a good balance of playtime! Fun breaks before returning to class should be taken more seriously. Playworks has managed to make meaningful connections through engaging play…and better students! Partnering with teachers, principals, and parents, their goal is to help ensure kids have the opportunity to be more well-rounded and feel more at ease in whatever setting they are. Click HERE to learn more about how successful this play-based curriculum program is.
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