Youth Development
For over four decades, Eastside Community Network (ECN) has used our resources and tools to support youth living in our community. Today, our youth programs focus on the holistic development of each young person — ensuring that our program participants are academically, physically, mentally, emotionally, and financially prepared for post-secondary school success.
Our Work
The Eastside Youth Collective
More information coming soon.
To learn more about the Eastside Youth Collective, contact Caitlin Crutcher at ccrutcher@ecn-detroit.org or (313) 331-3287.
College Access Program
The College Access Program (CAP) guides high school students on their journey to college and career paths through individualized college prep support, topical workshops, and group activities. CAP’s offerings include SAT tutoring; FAFSA assistance; college and scholarship application assistance; 1-on-1 college counseling provided by Closing the Gap; college tours to Historically Black Colleges & Universities and schools in the state of Michigan; and support buying college essentials.
Our ultimate goal is to ensure our youth select colleges and vocational training that best fit their post-secondary school needs, expectations and interests. To that end, CAP also provides specialized support to 1st generation college students who may need additional resources and guidance throughout the college and career prep process.
Summer Youth Employment Program
Our summer employment program provides 6 weeks of part time employment to east side youth ages 14-18. In addition to the experience gained through their summer jobs, participants also increase their financial literacy, build their job readiness skills and hone their community development skills through topical workshops, group projects and other activities. All participants receive free daily lunches provided by our partner Forgotten Harvest.