The Detroit Phoenix Center is proud to announce its lineup of impactful events leading up to its signature benefit, “One Night Without a Bed”, held in conjunction with National Youth H.O.P.E. (Homelessness Outreach, Prevention, and Education) Month. This initiative is not a simulation but an act of solidarity, emphasizing basic human rights, accountability, and service to Detroit’s youth. The events throughout November aim to raise awareness and mobilize support to uplift youth experiencing housing insecurity and poverty and inspire them to realize their potential.
“Our mission is clear, we want to ensure Detroit youth know they are seen, valued, and supported,” said Courtney Smith, CEO, Detroit Phoenix Center. “This year, we’re placing a powerful emphasis on the positive — envisioning what our city would look like if every young person had a safe, warm bed to call their own every night. When we invest in our youth, we are nurturing the bright future of Detroit. Together, we can inspire change and create a reality where every young person feels secure, valued, and empowered”
Participants in ONWAB will experience 12 hours of education and meaningful engagement on November 29, the culmination of a month-long series of events aimed at fostering support and generating essential resources for the youth of Detroit. WDIV-TV’s Tati Amare will emcee the event.
Other events planned throughout the month include:
November 2024 ONWAB Event Highlights
November 8, 2024 – ONWAB Kick-off Reception
4 PM – 6 PM | Ken Walker Store, 4161 Cass Ave, Detroit, MI
Join DPC for the official ONWAB campaign launch, featuring the debut of DPC’s youth-designed “Beyond the Ashes” apparel brand. Attendees will witness major campaign announcements, including the launch of the billboard campaign, an expanded partnership with Ken Walker, and updates on the YouthUP Mobile Unit. Local dignitaries, influencers, and supporters will be in attendance.
November 14, 2024 – Know Your Rights Workshop
5 PM – 7 PM | Virtual Event
An empowering virtual session where DPC youth will learn about their rights related to fair housing, voting, employment, and other justice issues, equipping them to advocate for themselves and their peers.
November 21, 2024 – Friendsgiving Celebration
5 PM – 8 PM | Aya House, 2055 Gratiot Ave, Detroit, MI
DPC youth and their families will gather for a night of gratitude, games, and a shared Thanksgiving meal. Participants will also receive specially curated care packages.
November 22, 2024 – Youth Hope Month Skating Party
6 PM – 9 PM | Royal Skateland, 5201 Alter Rd, Detroit, MI
A fun-filled skating night to celebrate community and foster connections among DPC youth and their peers.
November 29, 2024 – ONWAB Impact Dinner & Youth Kickback
7 PM – 7 AM | Morena’s Event Venue, 23632 Plymouth Rd, Redford Charter Twp, MI
The month’s main event, ONWAB, is an youth-led overnight kickback and service event. The evening places an emphasis on youth and will feature educational activations, an awards ceremony recognizing key partners and advocates for youth, and discussions led by youth that highlight the realities and achievements of DPC’s resilient community. Sponsored by Ally, Brasscraft, and IFF, tickets are on sale, with free admission available for youth ages 14-24, thanks to generous community sponsors. WDIV-TV’s Tati Amare will be the event’s emcee.
How to Get Involved
DPC invites the community to stand in solidarity with Detroit’s youth by participating, sponsoring, or donating to this crucial campaign. Contributions to ONWAB go directly towards sustaining DPC programs that provide safety, support, and essential resources to youth in need. The National Month of H.O.P.E. campaign run by DPC serves as its largest annual fundraiser.
“With your support, we can continue to create a community where every young person has the opportunity to realize their full potential,” added Smith.
For tickets, sponsorship opportunities, or to make a donation, visit https://www.detroitphoenixcenter.org, https://www.onenightwithoutabed.com or https://p2p.charityengine.net/2024onwab/Register/Activity/
About Detroit Phoenix Center
Detroit Phoenix Center (DPC) is a nonprofit organization that responds to the needs of underserved and transient youth in Detroit. DPC supports young people, ages 13-24, through direct services, including a daily drop-in center for young adults (showers, washer/dryer, food pantry, computer lab, day beds, hygiene products, life skills classes etc.), afterschool enrichment program for teens, youth action board, emergency crisis support and a scholarship fund. DPC also works diligently for systemic change and contributes to the growing movement to end youth homelessness. For more information, visit www.detroitphoenixcenter.org.
