News & Stories

Building for Forever: What it takes to strengthen youth-serving organizations for the long term

What does it take to ensure Detroit’s youth-serving organizations are here for generations to come? Through the Michigan Central Station Children’s Endowment Initiative, 11 organizations are building permanent endowments—supported by matching funds, technical assistance, and hands-on coaching. The result is more than financial growth; it’s a shift from short-term survival to long-term strength for the children and families they serve.

Agency Endowments: Starting where you are, with intention

For many nonprofits, establishing an agency endowment can feel like something to revisit later—when resources feel more abundant or fundraising pressures ease. But agency endowments aren’t about waiting for the perfect moment. They’re about making an intentional investment in your organization’s future, creating long-term stability and sustaining your mission for generations to come.

Welcoming Peter Ginopolis as Chair of the Children’s Foundation of Michigan’s Board of Trustees

The Children’s Foundation of Michigan has named Peter Ginopolis as Chair of its Board of Trustees. His appointment reflects a strong alignment around leadership, continuity, and a shared commitment to improving the health and well-being of children across Michigan.

5 ways for kids and families to have a fun and healthy summer

Summer means warmer weather and more daylight – it also means more free time, opportunity to break routine, and take advantage of all this time of year has to offer. With the inspiration of our community partners, we are sharing five ways to have an action-packed summer filled with exciting and new experiences for kids and families.

Music Therapy: Providing comfort, coping, and healing for hospitalized children

While waiting a new heart in 2021, 14-month-old Samuel endured a long inpatient stay at Children’s Hospital of Michigan. As a toddler, he should have been taking his first steps, jumping, and busting with energy, but instead he was confined to four walls. Fortunately, David found comfort in music therapy sessions provided at CHM.

A letter from Larry – June 2022

It is during this time of year that youngsters should be out playing with their friends – a quick pick-up game of baseball, swimming at the local pool, playing nine holes at your municipal golf course. These are the memories that will last forever.

Detroit Horse Power: Developing youth through horses

“The first time I got on a pony was really scary for me,” said Maddie, a high school freshman who has been a participant of Detroit Horse Power since 2021.

5 ways you can support Mental Health Awareness Month

The importance of mental health has increased in recent years, becoming a major topic especially among our youth. For this reason, The Children’s Foundation has made Mental Health one of its primary focus areas. Our goal is to change the conversation, provide help and solutions to struggling youth, and establish preventive measures for all children and young adults.

Board of Trustees announces a strategic transition

Lawrence J. Burns, president & CEO of The Children’s Foundation, has shared his plans to leave The Foundation at the end of 2022, focusing on the next chapter of his career which includes consulting. Larry has served at The Foundation since 2016, providing transformational leadership to redefine The Foundation.

A letter from Larry – May 2022

Spring brings a great deal of activity for The Children’s Foundation as we continue to be on the move helping children, adolescence, young adults, and their families.

Yoga Therapy: Healing and positive coping practices for hospitalized children

Campers tried new activities, expanding appreciation for the outdoors and nature, engaging in physical activities, making new friendships, and practicing essential living skills while away from home.

2022 Child & Adolescent Behavioral Health Summit creates impact for countless children

“We can no longer think about trauma as what happened to someone else’s child, we have to think like it has happened to our own child,” noted Dr. Robert Shaner, superintendent, Rochester Community Schools.

The Friendship Circle: Summer Camp creates sense of belonging for children and teens with special needs