A voice for children since 1960, The Skillman Foundation is a private philanthropy that works to ensure Detroit youth achieve their highest aspirations. To this end, they are focused on strengthening K-12 education, afterschool learning opportunities, and college and career pathways in Detroit.
The Foundation puts children first in all decision making and work to ensure programs, policies, and systems help them thrive. They are equity focused, seeking just treatment and second-to-none supports for Detroit youth. They believe the well-being of youth will determine the prosperity of they city and the strength of our society.
Alongside the Foundation's grant and community partners, they are advancing an Opportunity Agenda for Detroit Children. Rather than help children beat the odds, they seek to change the odds for Detroit kids by giving them the supports and opportunities they need to set and achieve their highest aspirations. To this end, they are focused on strengthening Detroit's K-12 education, afterschool, and college and career pathways systems.
The Opportunity Agenda for Detroit Children is focused on strengthening three systems:
- K-12 Education: The Foundation supports a high-quality system of schools that helps children meet educational milestones and move through life as capable and confident thinkers. Every child should have access to exceptional learning experiences and supportive environments that nurture their brilliance.
- Afterschool: The Foundation works with community partners to build a robust system of out-of-school learning opportunities. They want Detroit kids to have enriching experiences that allow them to explore and expand their sense of self and the world under the guidance of caring adults.
- College & Career Pathways: They foster an integrated and youth-centered college and career pathways system that provides youth with the experiences, supports, and opportunities needed to follow a path of their choosing, leading us all into a more prosperous and equitable future.