GDYT 2021 Update

Every summer, more than 8,000 Detroit youth age 14-24 find jobs, training and a paycheck through Grow Detroit’s Young Talent.

In doing so, they not only participate in meaningful work experiences and training that helps them gain the confidence and skills they need to build a career, but they are also able to contribute to the financial well-being of their family.

This year more than ever, we need to ensure our young people have productive work opportunities and the means to support themselves and their families in this tough economy, but we realize the need to do so in a responsible manner that protects the health of youth and employers.

That’s why this summer, GDYT is expanding its summer opportunities to include more online work-readiness training and online paid training. We’ll also offer work experiences that can be completed while observing guidelines for social distancing. Experiences will be available via computer, tablet, or smartphone. We are working with stakeholders across the City to ensure that every GDYT youth has access to a suitable device and connectivity.

We are grateful that partners who have already signed up to provide jobs and/or funding have reconfirmed their commitment to Detroit youth and paid online learning experiences, but we are short of our fundraising goal, and need your help. Here are three ways you can lend support:

  • Become a Funding Partner and make an investment in GDYT to support youth wages, digital devices, Internet connectivity and other program costs.
  • Become an Employer Partner by providing a remote work opportunity, and sponsor an online work experience for $1,800 per youth.
  • Sign up as a Virtual Mentor and make a direct investment in a young person’s life by helping guide their personal and professional development.

We realize that things will be challenging in the months ahead, but it’s important for our youth to feel that they are still an important part of Detroit’s future, and that they are able to do something to help their families at such a critical time.

If you’re able to help, please visit the Employers and Supporters page and tell us how you’d like to participate to make sure that our youth continue to have opportunities they need.