Equity Accelerator for Youth Development
Purpose
The 2025 Equity Accelerator for Youth Development (EAYD) cohort is an eight-month (Oct-May) leadership experience designed for BIPOC program leaders (directors, managers, coordinators, etc.) in youth-serving nonprofits. Through interactive learning labs, mentorship, and a cohort-driven capstone, participants build community, strengthen their leadership identity, and gain practical tools in strategy, innovation, advocacy, and program quality assessment and improvement.
Grounded in equity and lived experience, EAYD equips participants to align purpose with practice, build leadership skills, & amplify your voice & systemic impact in youth development.
The application process for the 2025 Cohort is closed.
To view the video from the EAYD Informational Meeting held on July 11, 2025 from 11:00 am – 12:00 pm, click HERE.
Program Benefits
- Grow as Leaders
Build confidence, clarify your purpose, and lead from where you are. - Gain Practical Skills
Learn the importance of using youth program quality assessments for impact, explore innovative practices, and develop your own theory of change. - Experience Culturally Relevant Learning
Engage in sessions that center your identity, experiences, and voice as a BIPOC youth practitioner. - Build Community & Belonging
Connect with a cohort of peers who understand the challenges and joys of direct service work. - Create a Meaningful Capstone
Showcase your growth through a final capstone experience with your cohort. - Access Ongoing Support
Join a BIPOC network that affirms your work and continues to support your journey beyond the program and through intentional mentorship and connection.
Strategic Goals
The YDRC’s mission is to improve the quality of local youth-serving organizations to maximize their impact and to advocate for accessible, high-quality youth development opportunities.
The Equity Accelerator will support YDRC’s mission by:
- Stabilizing the sector (small to mid-sized organizations), and sustaining our quality improvement work to create more access to high-quality youth development opportunities for youth and families.
- Elevating the voices of BIPOC leaders in the sector, specifically Black, Indigenous, Latinx, Arab-American, and other leaders of color who reflect the populations of young people served by the sector.
- Creating spaces for sustained connection and collaboration among youth development leaders to individually and collectively advocate on issues impacting the youth development landscape.
Ideal Candidate & Requirements
Leaders of youth-serving nonprofit organizations in the Metro Detroit area who identify as:
- BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, & People of Color)
- Direct-service, front-line, program leaders (Program Directors, Managers, Coordinators, Coaches, etc.)
- Individuals who have an interest in leading with confidence, aligning purpose with practice, and contributing to systemic change in youth development.
Frequently Asked Questions
I don’t identify as a BIPOC leader, but my program serves BIPOC youth. Am I able to apply?
The EAYD is designed explicitly for BIPOC leaders and staff. We would be happy to connect you with additional resources that may serve you.
I don’t work directly with youth but I work at a youth-serving organization. Am I able to apply?
The EAYD is designed for direct-service leaders who work with youth. We may explore this based on what your title and role is within the organization.
I am unable to make some of the program dates. Am I able to send my coworker in my absence?
No, unfortunately, one of the goals of the accelerator is to build community and a strong sense of belonging amongst cohort members. We have further instructions for the allowance of being absent from cohort meetings for those accepted into the program.
Who is on your program selection committee?
The selection committee consists of YDRC’s staff, coaches, trainers, and a group of peers who serve on the Steering Committee. For more information about the Equity Accelerator: please email Kiylise at kiylise@detroitydrc.org.