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THE DBG difference

When adults examine and shift their own perspectives, they create space for youth to thrive. Your investment today supports this crucial mindset transformation—helping build communities where every young person’s potential is recognized, valued, and nurtured. Join us in creating lasting change that spans generations.

Whatever It Takes

In a world that has failed too many young people, we create personalized opportunities where they can set down their burdens and pick up their potential – in spaces to be curious, to grow, to connect, and to lead. Rooted in trusted relationships, we champion shared power, owning your voice, and leading lasting change. Whatever it takes, for as long as it takes.

Our impact

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For almost two decades, DBG has built deep connections with students and their families, measuring our impact through annual evaluations and ongoing dialogue. This longitudinal approach allows us to understand each student’s unique journey – their challenges, opportunities, and dreams. By staying responsive to our community’s needs and adapting our support accordingly, we continue to evolve and scale our impact effectively. Every piece of data represents a real story, helping us strengthen the foundation of support we provide to each student in our community.

DBG’s work is improved by the thoughtful integration of community partnerships. DBG maintains a diverse body of partners including but not limited to academic institutions, libraries, public schools, private businesses, healthy systems and other community-based organizations. 1 of 8 DBG’s holistic approach to development demands that intervention and support extend to our students’ siblings and guardians. We provide emergency services and individualized support to upwards of 400 families each year. 2 of 8 DBG maintains an alumni network of 300-plus students. These students receive continued, individualized support through college and into their careers. DBG alumni regularly participate in our core programming initiatives, serving as mentors, role models, and tutors for our younger k-12 students. 3 of 8 DBG’s geographic diversity allows students to engage with a peer network that radiates out across 50 distinct neighborhoods in southeast Michigan. 4 of 8 Through our robust transportation program, we are able to serve students from more than 71 schools and 41 zip codes. 5 of 8 DBG serves 250 students through our core programming initiatives and supports a cohort of 300-plus alumni across the country. We are currently expanding our campus in ways that will double enrollment and allow for more community engagement opportunities. 6 of 8 We are working to support even more underserved youth–well beyond southeast Michigan–by training mission-aligned leaders and organizations with the passion to spark change and amplify impact in their own communities. Our inaugural replication site in Buffalo will be operational in the Summer of 2025. 7 of 8 The DBG story has been shared nationally, and internationally on various platforms including our media networks as well as 3rd-party platforms. These opportunities provide audiences all over the world with exposure to an approach that is proven to make a lasting impact. 8 of 8

academic

100%

Graduation Rate

Since program inception in 2007

98%

Post-secondary Education Continuation

5.5+

Reading Levels

Average annual literacy gains

84%

Math Gains

Share of DBG students improving their math grades

social - emotional

+10%

Adaptability

Increase year-over-year in the ability to apply and adjust skills in difficult settings

+12%

Self-Efficacy

Increase year-over-year in the advantage over peers nationwide in the belief they can succeed

+14%

Sense of Agency

Increase year-over-year in the advantage over peers nationwide in the belief to make policy changes in their community

+11%

Self Regulation

Increase year-over-year in the ability to monitor and manage emotions, thoughts and behaviors

parents & alumni

1,500

Total students served since inception

350+

Active alumni network

10

DBG’s Parent Committee

98%

of parents say DBG has a significant and lasting or positive impact on their child’s life

44%

reported a positive behavior change

Our out-of-school time program starts as early as 8 years old (3rd grade) with support continuing through adulthood. On average, a DBG student participates in programming for at least 7 years.

1 of 10 We provide 1:1 intervention in reading and math. This personalized support allows us to assess each student’s strengths and weaknesses holistically. A comprehensive understanding of where students are starting when they begin programming supports our ability to address deficits while reinforcing cardinal skills. 2 of 10 Beyond the core programming that happens during our operating hours, DBG identifies and provides basic needs support including but not limited to, emergency services and funds, access to financial literacy, toiletries and clothing. 3 of 10 So much of our success turns on our ability to ensure regular participation year over year (students commit to attending at least three days of programming per week). We have an active fleet of buses and vans that provide critical transportation to each student—picking them up at home/school and dropping them off at home safely each night. 4 of 10 Full sports sampling is offered to each student, culminating in three athletic seasons per year (Fall/Spring/Summer). Each season ends in a competitive tournament or showcase. Movement is a key part of our comprehensive approach to development and our athletics programming goes far beyond boxing, including everything from badminton to ballet. 5 of 10 To ensure a vibrant and sustainable transition to either post-secondary education or career, DBG begins preparing our students as early as third grade to identify what success looks like for them in a future career. By nurturing their passions and providing individualized workforce readiness training and experiences, we can ensure that each DBG student is able to achieve success as they see it. 6 of 10 At DBG, we take a holistic approach to wellness. Nutrition education, grocery budgeting, culinary and kitchen safety classes along with access to behavioral health supports confirm that our students have the foundational skills and social-emotional tools needed to live healthy lifestyles through adulthood. 7 of 10 Addressing food insecurity is a major component of DBG programming. When students have full bellies, they are more prepared to learn and grow. DBG provides locally sourced, scratch-cooked meals to each of our students in both the spring and summer. During the academic year alone, our kitchen staff prepares upwards of 500 balanced dinners and snacks per week. 8 of 10 Tutors are a central component of DBG programming and allow us to extend 1:1 support while expanding our students’ access to credible mentors. Tutors commit to supporting students at least once per week over a fifteen-week semester. 9 of 10 DBG is training the workforce of the future. By leveraging key partnerships to provide students with job shadowing and internship experiences we can ensure that each student is prepared to succeed in the professional world. 10 of 10

it takes a village

At DBG, we are fierce champions for children. Lifting up neighborhoods by preparing young leaders to transform their communities. Your investment-whether time or funds -directly supports personalized mentoring, academic guidance, and leadership development that helps students overcome barriers and recognize their potential.
 
We’re different because we meet each student exactly where they are. No cookie-cutter programs. No one-size-fits-all solutions. Just dedicated, long-term support tailored to each young person’s unique journey.
 
Your support makes this transformation possible. Join us in building a stronger community, one student at a time.
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The latest

We are fierce champions for children. Since 2007, DBG has been breaking down barriers, providing vital resources, and helping students succeed. We’ve built one of the nation’s leading out-of-school time programs with passion, dedication, and unwavering commitment to our kids.

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DBG Student Researchers Present Findings at Great Lakes Regional Counseling Psychology Conference

Their confidence and public speaking skills wowed a crowd at Wayne State University as four DBG student researchers (Keenan, Garrett, Jamarion, and  Messiah) presented at ...
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