We are proud to support the 12th annual Grow Detroit’s Young Talent (GDYT) summer employment program, which launched this year with 8,000 summer jobs for Detroit youth ages 14-24. This investment reflects our deep commitment to post-secondary success and workforce development. Our goal is to empower young people with the resources, access, and exposure they need to build successful careers and more prosperous lives.

Since its inception, GDYT has provided over 90,000 summer employment opportunities to Detroit teens and young adults, many of whom have gone on to establish careers or pursue post-secondary education. This year’s program marks a historic milestone: for the first time, all participants completed a two-week work readiness training before their first day on the job, ensuring they enter the workforce prepared and confident.

Rocket Community Fund serves as both an employer partner and sponsor of the 2026 GDYT program. Our investment is rooted in the belief that every young person deserves the opportunity to pursue their career dreams – and the information and training to make those dreams a reality.

“Every young person deserves the opportunity to explore careers they may not have otherwise imagined,” said Marvin Logan, Director of Education & Employment, Rocket Community Fund. “Our investment in Grow Detroit’s Young Talent helps connect Detroit youth to meaningful work experiences—including careers in technology—that build skills, expand networks and inspire confidence in what’s possible for their future.”

Through educational programming and workforce development, GDYT connects participants to real-world job experiences across sectors including healthcare, tech, energy, and community-based organizations. Youth work an average of 20 hours per week over six weeks at more than 400 work sites throughout the city.

The program’s impact is best captured by GDYT alum Destiny Sanders, who first joined at age 15: “I am proof that investing in young people changes lives.”

By investing in programs like GDYT, Rocket Community Fund continues to champion pathways that give Detroit’s young people access to careers, confidence, and a vision for their future.