Advocacy & Generation of Promise

youth leadership:
generation of promise

Generation of Promise is Metro Detroit’s premier social justice youth program.

It’s a high school junior program that supports a new generation of leaders who advance racial equity in Southeastern Michigan by developing expertise in key issues, forging friendships across race and culture and leading organizing and advocacy efforts.

Overview
Current Class
FAQS
Board of Allies

Focus: HOPE’s Generation of Promise is a flagship youth leadership program that empowers high schoolers from diverse backgrounds across metropolitan Detroit to become advocates for equity and social change.

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How do I apply?

Applications for 2025-2026 program year are now closed. The application for the 2026-2027 program year will be posted winter/spring 2026.

You must be in the 10th grade attending one of our participating schools to apply to be in the program during your 11th grade year (see list of participating schools below).

Participating Schools: Berkley High School, Cass Technical High School, Central High School, Cesar Chavez Academy, Cranbrook Kingswood, Fitzgerald High School, Fordson High School, Grosse Pointe South High School, Groves High School, Lake Orion High School, Loyola High School, Renaissance High School, South Lake High School, University Liggett, U of D Jesuit High School

What topics are covered in Generation of Promise?

Throughout the year we focus on a myriad of themes that intersect identity, race, and culture. We also explore the complexities of the metropolitan region, as it reflects the history of racism and oppression across the nation. This allows for students to confront the disparities that exist, based on their individual lived experiences and challenges our one’s own personal bias, offering a broader perspective and encouraging a more equitable and just society.

When does the Program take place?

If the program days are during school days, will I be excused from classes?

If I am in extracurriculars, will I still be able to participate?

Are there any assignments that will need to be done in between program days?

Will program days be in-person or virtual?

What are the benefits of being in this program?

Being in the Generation of Promise program means a lot of things. You will gain valuable understanding about anti-racism and anti-discrimination, skills in inclusive leadership, and practice in community organizing and advocacy for social justice. You will learn a lot about yourself and your capabilities. You will learn all about Detroit and the surround Metropolitan area, from the vast amount of diversity present, to meeting community partners that have dedicated their lives to their communities. Lastly, you will gain access to an extensive network of hundreds of Generation of Promise alumni who are willing and ready to mentor you. Generation of Promise is a community of like-minded individuals, trying to change the world for the better.