Detroit Champions for HOPE

Supporting children and families in the first eight years of life — when development matters most.

WHO WE ARE

Detroit Champions for Hope

Detroit Champions for Hope (DCH) is a collective of Detroiters determined to conquer and strive for better for our children and our families.

We operate with the fundamental conviction that parents and caregivers are their child’s first teachers and champions. Our organization was built alongside families, not around them, and we focus on a “community-first” model that honors the wisdom and dignity of the neighborhoods we serve.

Invest in Detroit’s Children

Your support helps families access early learning, health resources, and community programs across all seven districts. Every contribution strengthens a child’s foundation.

Breaking Cycles

We work to break generational cycles, moving families from surviving to legacy building.

Systemic Change

We believe in the power to change programs, policies, and systems to create equitable outcomes that are responsive to the aspirations of Detroit families.

Authentic Voice

A unique and authentic community voice is at the core of everything we do.
“Hope starts here, but it doesn’t stay here. It spreads.”

CORE INITIATIVES

Resource Navigation & KOHA

Dedicated support systems designed to connect families with resources, healthcare access, and neighborhood-based guidance.

01

Resource Navigation

DCH utilizes a “No Wrong Door” model to ensure families can access vital supports wherever they connect with us—whether at a library, school, or faith institution.

Community Navigators

Our team of certified specialists provides direct, neighborhood-based support to help families navigate complex systems, including housing, food security (SNAP), and healthcare (Medicaid).

Integrated Referrals

We provide a shared intake pipeline that routes families to childcare slots, mental health supports, and basic needs.

Neighborhood Focus

We organize in all seven Detroit City Council districts, ensuring families are connected to local champions who understand their specific neighborhood context.

02

Kindergarten Oral Health Assessment (KOHA)

Integrated directly into our signature 6-A-Day workshop structure, the KOHA program ensures children begin school with a healthy smile.

Healthy Kids Dental

We distribute guides (in print and digital formats) to help families understand Medicaid dental coverage and find local providers.

Navigation Specialists

Our trained parent leaders serve as Navigation Champions, assisting caregivers in completing required health screenings before kindergarten entry.

Caregiver Tools

We provide checklists and action steps during “Brush, Read, and Play” events to make oral health a simple, daily family practice.

Why Early Childhood Matters

The first eight years of a child’s life shape their future health, learning, and wellbeing. During this time, children grow rapidly and thrive when they receive love, attention, encouragement, nutritious food, and quality health care.

Strong early support helps children enter school ready to learn and builds the foundation for lifelong success.

Children age 0–5 living in poverty
0 %
First-time parents needing stress support
0 %
Families facing childcare cost barriers
0 %
Parents changing jobs due to childcare
0 %
Children 8 and under live in Detroit
0
Mothers receiving late or no prenatal care
0 %

Events Calendar

6 A Days

Six A Day is a literacy initiative encouraging families and caregivers to engage in six simple activities with young children every day. These small moments of learning help develop language, curiosity, and confidence that support lifelong learning.

Community Highlights

Stay Connected

Receive monthly updates on events, district progress, and opportunities to get involved.

Kindezi Partnership

Kindezi connects families to early learning tools, community resources, and school readiness support. Together, we help children transition confidently from home to classroom and beyond.

Get in Touch

Have questions or want to get involved? We’re always happy to connect with individuals and partners who care about supporting children and families in our community.

Encourage

Hugs offer safety, comfort, and reassurance. Physical affection helps children feel secure and loved, supporting emotional well-being and building a strong sense of connection between parent and child.