Project Title: Pathways Beyond the Block: College Exposure for Young Black Males in 48204

Project Summary:
We propose to take 50 young Black males from Detroit’s 48204 community to visit multiple colleges across Michigan, giving them an opportunity to envision a future beyond the confines of their current environment. These young men—many of whom will be the first in their families to graduate high school—come from single-parent households and communities burdened by high poverty and limited access to resources. This project will open their eyes to the possibilities of higher education, career opportunities, and life beyond the challenges they face daily.

Need Statement:
The 48204 ZIP code in Detroit is home to some of the highest rates of poverty, crime, and limited educational access in Michigan. Many young Black males in this community grow up without exposure to environments that encourage long-term academic or career aspirations. Without intentional intervention, cycles of poverty and limited opportunity are more likely to repeat.

For many, the idea of college feels abstract or unattainable—not because of a lack of intelligence or drive, but because they have never set foot on a campus or met students who look like them succeeding in those spaces. This project seeks to change that by creating a tangible, real-world connection to higher education.

Project Description:
Over the course of a series of trips, we will take 50 young Black males from the 48204 area to tour multiple colleges in Michigan, including but not limited to Michigan State University, University of Michigan, Wayne State University, Eastern Michigan University, and Grand Valley State University. Students will meet with current undergraduates, participate in Q&A sessions, and tour dorms, classrooms, and student activity centers.

In addition to exposure, each trip will include mentorship sessions from successful Black male professionals who've come from the same backgrounds.