Youthville Detroit - Safe Place
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GT.US
N 42° 22.281 W 083° 04.497
17T E 329156 N 4693093
Youthville is a Community Center in Detroit, Michigan
Waymark Code: WM7VNC
Location: Michigan, United States
Date Posted: 12/08/2009
Views: 7
The website at (
visit link) tells us:
"HISTORY:
Detroit Youth Foundation (DYF) was formed in 1999 as a public charities organization transitioning from a previous program model of a W.K. Kellogg Foundation initiative. Initially, DYF spent early years engaging youth, community, and organizations in furthering positive youth development and community change. This was accomplished via re-granting dollars to organizations for program activities, working directly with youth on leadership building and youth philanthropy, and working collaboratively with other organizations to improve outcomes for youth. In transitioning from a Kellogg Foundation initiative to a separate independent foundation, DYF’s funding needs were met entirely by the Kellogg Foundation.
DYF moved toward change making versus grant making as a means to impact youth developmental outcomes. As such, DYF implemented a conceptual and program implementation model called YouthVille Detroit to create safe space for youth providing programming opportunities and supports. This model was developed in consultation with several youth and family organizations. Some of these organizations later become tenant partners in the YouthVille Detroit facility.
Dr. Gerald K. Smith, Founder of YouthVille Detroit conceived YouthVille Detroit as a youth development center and not just a recreational facility. Communicating the concept of positive youth development as the mission of YouthVille Detroit was a key initiative, which involved meetings and conversations with all levels of the Detroit community and southeastern Michigan. This included parents, youth, teachers, school administrators, business leaders, legislators, and the governor. The process was most effective in clarifying the concept and getting enthusiastic commitment and support.
As a result, YouthVille Detroit is more than a youth facility – it is a concept, a new approach to developing youth and enhancing their well-being. YouthVille Detroit is the culmination of Dr. Smith’s lifelong commitment to positive youth development and community. "