Structure

Detroit4Youth draws from a collective impact approach to provide the structure and support necessary to increase collaboration across sectors for the benefit of Detroit youth and their caregivers. Collective Impact is a framework for addressing complex social issues that involves collaboration among diverse stakeholders. It emphasizes the need for core conditions - such as a common agenda, shared measurement, mutually reinforcing activities, a backbone support entity, etc. - to coordinate efforts. 

When it comes to policy change, collective impact can play a crucial role in influencing and shaping policies. By applying the principles of collective impact to policy change efforts, Detroit4Youth can enhance its ability to address complex social issues and advocate for meaningful policy reforms. This approach increases the chances of creating lasting and positive change in communities.

Youth Driven Focus 

Detroit4Youth exists to support the vision of our youth by creating the supportive community they wish to have in their neighborhoods and the city at-large. In its collaborative approach, D4Y leverages key opportunities and resources to build a shared understanding of youth-identified issues and solutions. 

One key resource, the Detroit Youth Action Plan (published by TeenHYPE in 2023) provides data and analysis on the state of youth (0-24), as well as identified impact areas that must be addressed in order for Detroit to be supportive, responsive and fruitful for youth and their caregivers. Another resource, the Hope Starts Here Framework (first published in 2017) elevates early childhood development and wellness indicators, trends in related outcomes, and imperatives for improving the early education and care system so that families with young children can thrive. 

Such resources, along with other data and opportunities to engage directly with youth in vision-setting, decision-making, etc., help provide a comprehensive roadmap for the work of D4Y. 

Learn more here.