Winning Futures

Winning Futures We empower Metro Detroit students with the knowledge, skills, and support needed to succeed.
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Too many students graduate from high school without knowing what they'll do next or how they will support themselves, or they simply don't have the knowledge, skills, or support needed to succeed. We see these students and know that, with guidance and support, many will flourish. We empower students through our seven-year evidence-based Workforce Prep program that features volunteer career mentors

, career exploration, academic and career goal setting, and critical life and job-readiness skills development. Our students attend schools in Detroit, Harper Woods, Pontiac, Sterling Heights, and Warren. Since 1994 we have impacted 50,000 students and awarded $2.1 million in scholarships.

Pride is about showing up as you are. We’re here for that and proud to support young people from all backgrounds as they...
06/01/2026

Pride is about showing up as you are. We’re here for that and proud to support young people from all backgrounds as they build skills, confidence, and a future they’re excited about.

05/31/2026

This month, our students focused on two powerful areas of growth: Professionalism and Emotional Intelligence & Summer Planning.

Students explored what it means to show up professionally – learning workplace etiquette, how to stand out, and the value of strong character. In an interactive activity, they stepped into the role of a supervisor, evaluating fictional employees for a promotion. With no “perfect” candidate, they practiced critical thinking, collaboration, and decision-making.

We also focused on emotional intelligence – helping students recognize and manage their emotions. Through our “Emotions Pictionary” activity, they practiced identifying feelings in a fun, engaging way. To wrap up, students began planning for a successful summer, setting goals around college and career readiness, financial aid, networking, and making time for family and friends.

Thank you to this month’s featured mentors:
Michael Ho, Molex
K'Mari Johnson, VersiCare Group
Allicia Malmgren, General Motors
Sally Pham, Accenture
Laurelle Smith, Adient
Sidney Smith, MacLean-Fogg
Donald Thomas, General Dynamics Land Systems
Zachary Treib, McNaughton-McKay Electric Company
Ryan Triolet, Postman Law
Michael Walker, DTE Energy
Carissa Wesson, JAWsome Consulting

The Harper Woods Student Success Ceremony was a meaningful celebration of the progress our students have made and the ex...
05/29/2026

The Harper Woods Student Success Ceremony was a meaningful celebration of the progress our students have made and the exciting opportunities ahead.

Each student was recognized by name, honored on stage, and presented with a certificate to mark this important milestone. Graduating seniors also received cords to wear at their high school graduation as a symbol of their dedication and achievement.

The celebration continued with photos alongside families, mentors, and supporters whose encouragement plays an important role in every student’s journey. Swipe to see highlights from this special day.

05/28/2026

Mentors don’t just guide, they ignite. Help students dream bigger, tackle challenges, and see what’s possible. Your time can transform a future. Apply to be a career mentor at https://tinyurl.com/3nxx2vms.

Our Hazel Park and Warren Mott Student Success Ceremony recognized the hard work and progress of our students as they mo...
05/22/2026

Our Hazel Park and Warren Mott Student Success Ceremony recognized the hard work and progress of our students as they move forward in their journeys.

From Year 1 students stepping into new opportunities to graduating seniors preparing for college, trade school, or apprenticeships, this milestone reflects how far they’ve come and where they’re headed.

We’re grateful to celebrate alongside the families, mentors, and supporters who make their journey possible. Swipe through to see highlights from the celebration.

05/20/2026

Mahbuba entered our Year 1 Workforce Prep Mentoring Program at Warren Mott High School. With support from her career mentor, Sarah Gregory of the Detroit Regional Partnership, Mahbuba:

✏️ Continued in our program through grades 10, 11, and 12.
🎓 Enrolled at Wayne State University and entered our continuing education program.
📚 Started studying pharmacy and business.
💼 Secured a summer internship with DirectRx through our Career Connections program.

“I’ve learned lessons that go beyond the classroom and will stay with me for years to come,” shares Mahbuba. “As I prepare to start my internship at DirectRX this summer, I feel both excited and grateful, and I’m looking forward to continuing to grow, challenge myself and make the most of this opportunity.”

We’re excited to welcome Juan Barrera to the Winning Futures Board of Directors! Juan brings more than 30 years of globa...
05/18/2026

We’re excited to welcome Juan Barrera to the Winning Futures Board of Directors!

Juan brings more than 30 years of global leadership experience in automotive manufacturing and operations, currently serving as Vice President of the Ford Global Business Unit at Yazaki North America. Throughout his career, he has led large-scale operations across North and Central America, overseeing more than 30 manufacturing plants and 45,000+ employees.

But what excites us most is Juan’s passion for helping young people succeed.

“Whenever we can make a difference in kids’ lives through education and personal, professional, emotional, and economic support, we are helping form good citizens who will pay it forward and make our communities more caring and socially responsible,” Juan shared.

Juan’s global perspective, operational expertise, and commitment to students will help strengthen our mission as we continue empowering tomorrow’s workforce.

Please join us in welcoming Juan to the Winning Futures family!

Read more about Juan: https://tinyurl.com/mwswyw4n.

05/14/2026

Our students recently learned how to recognize and manage their emotions and plan for a productive summer.

Through activities like "Emotions Pictionary," students practiced identifying emotions and discussed strategies to handle challenges. Our volunteer career mentors then guided them through workbook exercises, sharing personal tips, and experiences.

Students also explored summer planning: finalizing school or career goals, making time for family and friends, and using the time off wisely to prepare for what’s next.

05/12/2026

One mentor can spark a student’s future. ✨
Turn your experience into inspiration for tomorrow’s generation. Learn about becoming a volunteer career mentor at https://tinyurl.com/3nxx2vms.

05/07/2026

We see growth in our students in meaningful ways – building confidence, strengthening emotional skills, and preparing for what’s next.

From goal-setting to job readiness, these outcomes show how success adds up. 🙌

Address

580 Kirts Boulevard
Warren, MI
48084

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