MC Digital Edition 3.20.24

ic are evident, but what additional push is needed to rally Black voters unequivocally behind Biden? The administration’s endeavors to engage with these groups are commendable, but in a tightly contested electoral environment, identifying a strategy that can effectively mobilize these key demographics behind Biden could be the decisive factor.

promising cuts to Medicare and Social Security. The event also served as a platform for local leaders, including Rep. Dan Kildee, to address the community, followed by organizing training for volunteers. These volunteers are tasked with a critical grassroots mission: to canvass local communities, rally support, and articulate the stakes of the upcoming election.

bus drivers, paved the way for future generations of women in transit.

Gunter, reflecting on the broader impact of the campaign, stated, “As we celebrate Women’s History Month, SMART is proud to honor the achievements and contributions of these remarkable women who have blazed trails and inspired change in the transit industry. Their leadership, resilience and dedication serve as a beacon of inspiration for us all.”

She continued, emphasizing the importance of diversity and representation, “SMART’s campaign serves

as a powerful reminder of the importance of diversity and representation within the transit workforce.”

Gunter acknowledged the systemic barriers and challenges faced by these pioneers in a traditionally male-dominated field and underscored SMART’s commitment to fostering a more inclusive and equitable transit environment, “By elevating their stories, SMART reaffirms its commitment to creating a more inclusive and equitable transit environment where all individuals, regardless of gender, race, or background, have the opportunity to thrive and succeed.”

tions demonstrate Biden’s dual focus on both supporting labor movements and ensuring inclusive representation within his administration.

However, the question arises: Is this strategic focus sufficient to secure President Biden’s re-election? With the political landscape showing him and former President Trump in a closely contested race, fluctuating in the polls, the challenge remains in solidifying the support of the Black community in a more impactful manner. The administration’s vigorous efforts to engage and uplift this demograph-

“I remain committed to addressing the challenges head-on, working collaboratively to ensure the safety and well-being of our youth and the staff,” said Evans. “And we are just months away from having a new state-of-the-art facility as part of the new Criminal Justice Complex (CJC).”

The new CJC, according to Evans, is the largest construction project in Wayne County’s history.

Located on Detroit’s East Ferry Street off I-75, the cutting-edge complex will serve as the centralized hub for Wayne County’s Criminal Justice Operations. The center will include 2,280 beds, a Third Circuit Criminal Court with 26 courtrooms, a 160-bed juvenile detention center, and standalone headquarters for the Sheriff’s and Prosecutor’s Offices, respectively.

Numerous print and electronic news platforms have reported that the rising construction price tag for the massive complex, once at $533 million, has risen to just north of $600 million.

Evans also highlighted the broad collaboration between County, city, and community leaders and other stakeholders to create public safety initiatives, which led to 2023 having the fewest homicides in Detroit and across Wayne County in half a century.

Other violent crimes were also at decade lows.

Changing gears, Evans delivered a full-throated message about the approaching November general/presidential election and the plot by a former presi-

This visit to Saginaw marks President Biden’s second trip to Michigan this year, following an earlier visit to the Detroit Metro area rallied by the significant endorsement from the UAW. The strategic significance of Michigan, particularly Saginaw County, cannot be overstated, given its history of aligning with the statewide winner in every election since 1992.

The President’s itinerary in Saginaw also included delivering remarks that drew a sharp contrast between his policies, aimed at alleviating financial burdens for Michigan residents, and the rhetoric of his political adversaries. The focus was particularly on recent statements by Donald Trump,

dent to orchestrate disunity and stoke violence.

“I can’t talk about sustained unity without addressing the elephant in the room,” Evans said. “This is a pivotal election year with so much hanging in the balance. We all watched in horror on January 6, 2021, when an armed mob attempted to overthrow the United States government. The former president, who orchestrated this disunity will be back on the ballot despite a slew of criminal indictments. He tried to discount your votes, as well as millions of others in large swing states’ counties like ours. That’s why it’s so important, as Wayne County residents, to do our part and come together to vote in November.”

Evans urged people to vote, knock on doors, and talk with friends and neighbors about the importance of the November election and maintaining democracy.

“Know that your voices matter,” said Evans. “That’s why there is such an effort to take your voices away.”

With Wayne County home to the largest population of Arab and Muslim Americans in the United States, Evans touched on the ongoing war in Gaza, saying it has created a deep-seated emotional anguish spilling over into the Arab, Muslim, and Jewish communities.

“There are more than 300,000 Arab and Muslim Americans living in Wayne County, a major part of the fabric of this county,” said Evans, who added that he was one of the first elected officials to call for a per-

The Biden-Harris campaign’s activities in Michigan this week, including press conferences and events across other key states, underscore a concerted effort to spotlight the opposition’s proposed cuts to vital social programs. As President Biden departed Saginaw without public remarks or engagements with the press, the significance of his visit and the campaign’s strategic focus on Michigan and similar battleground states remained evident. As the administration continues to navigate the complex political terrain, the challenge lies in not just appealing to these communities but in enacting policies and taking stands that unequivocally address their needs and aspirations.

manent cease-fire in the Israel-Hamas War. “What’s happening in the Middle East is not just unfortunate; it’s brutal, and it’s inhumane, completely devoid of the spirit of compassion and global leadership that is so sorely needed right now.”

In addressing the opioid epidemic in Wayne County, Evans called for proactive measures to continue with collaborative efforts with external partners. Evans spoke about successfully securing more than $30 million in funds to combat the opioid epidemic in Wayne County communities. In partnership with Wayne State University, Evans said 100 Narcan vending machines – with Narcan and Fentanyl testing strips – are being deployed across the County.

“Fentanyl, a synthetic opioid that is up to a hundred times more potent than morphine, is wreaking havoc on our communities and streets killing nearly 1,000 people in Wayne County a year alone,” Evans said. Evans assured that his administration will always prioritize medical help for the well-being of county residents. He said he was proud of the Wayne County Commission passing a $700 million proposal to wipe away medical debt for thousands of Wayne County residents experiencing financial hardships. Evans calls the medical debt wipeout the largest initiative of its kind in U.S. history.

Among the County’s many economic development initiatives, Evans called the Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) program a catalyst for financing renewable energy improvements and energy efficiency endeavors. Evans said PACE is a program reducing Wayne County’s carbon footprint while creating jobs and spurring economic development. He added that Wayne County accounts for 32% of all PACE projects in Michigan.

In closing, Evans reiterated his theme about unity heard throughout the State of the County address. “Our unity has been our strength,” he said. “We are a model of innovation and unity. We embrace opportunities and challenges,

Family of Hurley Coleman III, executive director of the Saginaw County Community Action Center

but United We Thrive, One Wayne County and together we commit to build a brighter future.”

Local Students Converse with Detroit Grand Prix Drivers and Engineers to Gain Career Perspectives in Auto Racing

the call was Myles Rowe, who is only 23 years old, and a champion driver shared his background. He said that he started racing in indoor go-cart--he said that driving was his dream and that dream propelled him to train and model himself after well-known drivers and that he built a foundation, reputation, and sponsorship since the age of 16 years old.

Myles Rowe is the first African American in history to win a North American open-wheel championship. He is also a graduate of Pace University in Manhattan, for Film and Screen Studies.

Team owner and coach Rod Reed, who works with Rowe, shared that the young phenom is “special” and described him as someone who has the mental capacity and wherewithal to perform at a high level.

Rowe and Reed explained to the students how perseverance was vital to his success.

Rowe did discuss one barrier to entering a career in motorsports which is money. The career is expensive given the price of the cars. Rowe did not come from a famous racing family and notes that sponsors who believed him and provide him financial help that made it possible for him to be successful. He also shared that there is also a degree of “luck” which he and Reed described as preparedness meeting opportunity.

Turning Clothes into Opportunities for Nearly 25 Years

Like many of us, Alison Vaughn’s drive to serve her community was born out of tragedy.

Vaughn and her half-sister had been estranged for more than 20 years and when they reconnected. Unfortunately, her sister informed her that she was dying of cancer. While they were able to spend some final days together, Vaughn was disheartened to learn that her sister had spent years struggling financially and reliant on government assistance.

“I was so devastated because we were not in each other’s lives. So, when I helped with the funeral arrangements, I said, you know what, I want to empower women,” said Vaughn, “You know the saying, God bless the child that has its own.

So after that, I was just motivated to help other women become self-sufficient.”

And that is what she has been doing for almost 25 years.

Vaughn has been enthusiastically outfitting and provid-

call from Detroit and southeast Michigan schools which focus on and teach trades and STEM fields.

One of the more exciting guests on

The event was as part of Comerica

Comerica Bank Senior Vice President and Audit Director LaTonya McDonald kicks off the Free Prix Day Career Conversation.

Breithaupt Career and Technical Center connected students who listened to drivers and engineers talk about careers in auto racing.

Representatives from Comerica Bank meet with leaders from Jackets For Jobs at the organization’s west-side office located in the Northwest Activities Center (18100 Meyers Road). Pictured (l-r): Comerica Bank Vice President-Corporate Communications Matt Barnhart, Jackets for Jobs Director of Operations Layla Jackson, Jackets for Jobs Founder and Executive Director Alison Vaughn and Comerica Bank Vice President-External Affairs Manager Hassan Mehlem.

Teens who visit the prom dress boutique also are aided by personal shoppers to elevate the overall experience of finding the right prom dress and accessories.

Teens from more than two dozen schools in Detroit and surrounding communities found their perfect dress at last year’s Jackets for Jobs Prom Dress Boutique during the first year of the organization’s partnership with Comerica Bank. Photo credit: Andre Smith.

Comerica Cares volunteers assist teens to find the perfect dress. Photo credit: Andre Smith.

Alison Vaughn founded Jackets for Jobs 24 years ago to empower women, prepare them for the workplace and improve their self-image.

Photo credit: Andre Smith.

ing job assistance to metro Detroit job seekers through Jackets for Jobs.

With collaborations with Detroit at Works, major retailers, and more, Vaughn and her team have enabled Jackets for Jobs to assist over 37,000 clients in achieving their job-seeking goals through comprehensive training programs.

“Our focus is workforce development,” Vaughn details. “We provide interview attire and professional attire for job seekers because there is kind of that Catch 22. In order to get a job, you have to look good. But in order to look good, you need a job to buy the clothes, right?”

She explains that Jackets For Job fills that gap because many job seekers either have clothing or transportation barriers, perhaps both, which prohibits them from getting to work. She also explains that many of her clients have childcare challenges.

“There’s so many barriers that hinder people from getting a job. And so we serve as we’re an organization that seeks to help our clients overcome some of those barriers to employment,” said Vaughn.

In addition to her work with Jackets for Jobs workforce development clients, Vaughn has spent the past two years as a partner with Comerica Bank’s Prom Dress Drive.

“Last year, our goal was collecting 1,500 prom dresses and we exceeded far beyond that,” Vaughn says.

This year, the community is encouraged to drop off new or gently used prom dresses, shoes, and accessories at Comerica banking centers or offices in nine metro Detroit communities, including Ann Arbor, Bloomfield Hills, Dearborn, Detroit, Grosse Pointe, Livonia, New Baltimore, Northville and Novi.

“Prom dresses are very expensive. We had people last year who donated dresses that still had the price tag on them. You’re talking about a $500 or $600 for the dress, and you’re not even talking shoes and accessories, so it can be very costly. For Jackets for Jobs and Comerica Bank to be able to help alleviate that burden on the parent is a wonderful thing.”

Vaughn recognizes that much of her work centers on the idea of “beauty standards.”

“We know that people judge us by our outer appearance,” Vaughn explains, adding, “But, I’m very mindful about helping women build their inner beauty. If I help a woman get dressed in a beautiful suit, but her shoulders are slumped over and she looks depressed--she is still going to have a hard time being successful.”

At one of her events, Smart and Sexy Empowerment Day, Vaughn had experts come out and teach basic financial literacy like how to open a bank account. She also had a professional makeup artist come out and teach how to do basic professional makeup.

“We also had an expert come out and talk about self-care which helps with build inner beauty,” said Vaughn.

When it comes to her clients at Jackets for Jobs and the young ladies that she helps with the Prom Dress Giveaway, Vaughn says she has one consistent piece of advice. “Show people your personality with a smile--the best accessory you can wear to work or to prom is a smile.”

Comerica Bank is welcoming donations for its sixth annual Prom

Drive

Monday, March 18, and continuing through Friday, April 12, in support of community partner Jackets for Jobs. Individuals and businesses alike can drop off new or gently used dresses, along with accessories, such as jewelry, shoes, purses, and

Dresses are not the only items available for teens in needs. The Comerica Prom Dress

at participating Comerica locations to benefit southeast Michigan students. For the second consecutive year, Comerica will supply the donated dresses and accessories to Jackets for Jobs, a Detroit-based nonprofit that focuses on career development and removes barriers by providing high-quality clothing that makes clients look and feel professional to support workplace success.

“Teaming up with Jackets for Jobs was incredibly successful last year. We appreciate the passion of Alison Vaughn and her team in their commitment to reach and positively impact our youth during this very impressionable and important time in their lives,” said Steve Davis, Comerica Bank Michigan Market President. “Each year, we are truly grateful for the support we receive from our customers and communities throughout the Metro Detroit area during this effort. Their generosity makes our Prom Dress Drive possible.”

Cumulatively across its last five Prom Dress Drives, Comerica has collected more than 7,700 dresses – including a record of over 2,200 last year – to benefit local teens who may not otherwise be able to afford formal attire and experience the high school tradition of prom.

Jackets for Jobs Prom Dress Boutique

This year’s Jackets for Jobs Prom Dress Boutique will take place Friday, April 19 through Sunday, April 21 at the Samaritan Center (5555 Conner St.) in Detroit. Schools, organizations or families with teens in need can contact Jackets for Jobs at (313) 579-9160 for more information.

Free Prix Day

Bank’s Free Prix Day partnership with the Chevrolet Detroit Grand Prix.

This year the Detroit Grand Prix presented by Lear will include the Chevrolet INDYCAR Grand Prix featuring the cars of the NTT INDYCAR SERIES, the GTP and the GTD PRO classes of the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship and the rising stars of racing competing in INDY NXT by Firestone.

Comerica Bank Senior Vice President and Audit Director LaTonya McDonald welcomed the students and offered the career advice to take advantage of the resources around them and to not worry if they do not have their entire career path mapped out at this time.

Letty Azar, Vice President of Community Affairs for the Detroit Grand Prix, shared a few new things that will be available to fans this year including a total of seven grandstands, rooftop viewing and tailgating at Franklin Street Garage.

Comerica Free Prix Day Returns Friday May, 31

On Friday, May 31, Comerica Bank will build on a tradition that extends back to the very first Detroit Grand Prix in 1982. Free Prix Day will return to the Chevrolet Detroit Grand Prix presented by Lear in 2024 and for the 11th year, Comerica will help ensure that the community has a chance to experience all the excitement and thrills of the Grand Prix for FREE on the opening day of activities. Comerica Bank Free Prix Day provides fans a unique and complimentary opportunity to enjoy the vibrant racing festival hosted on the Streets of Downtown Detroit.

“With the support of Comerica Bank for the 11th consecutive year, we are proud to build on the Free Prix Day tradition at the Chevrolet Detroit Grand Prix presented by Lear,” said Michael Montri, President of the Chevrolet Detroit Grand Prix presented by Lear. “When we brought the Grand Prix back home to the Streets of Downtown Detroit last year, we wanted to ensure that everyone in our community had an opportunity to enjoy this special event. Fans enjoyed free access to more than half of the venue and we are excited to once again provide that complimentary experience in 2024. On Comerica Bank Free Prix Day, our guests will enjoy even more access with enhanced viewing opportunities and seating in two of our premium grandstands, completely free of charge.”

Seating in these grandstands overlooking pit lane and the start/ finish line on the 1.7-mile Downtown street circuit will be general admission and available on a first-come, first-seated basis. Thanks to Comerica Bank, no tickets will be required for fans to sit in either of these grandstands on Free Prix Day. Access to the paddock area is not included with Free Prix Day seating. Fans may also purchase tickets in other viewing areas for Friday, May 31 at the Grand Prix and paddock admission is included in all purchased tickets.

“Year after year, the Detroit Grand Prix delivers on its mission to present one of Detroit’s showcase events while also investing in improving the community through its economic impact and philanthropic outreach,” said Steve Davis, Comerica Bank Michigan Market President. “It was quite a thrill last year to see the weekend of racing festivities return to the Streets of Downtown Detroit, and we are honored to continue our partnership in providing free, unique experiences for Detroit-area students as well as fans.”

On Comerica Bank Free Prix Day, visitors will be able to watch all the Friday on-track action from two of the most coveted viewing locations – in Grandstands 1 and 9 – at no cost.

More information on the race is available at DetroitGP.com and Comerica’s Free Prix Day kicks is May 31. To learn more and to purchase online, visit DetroitGP.com/tickets.

Comerica Cares volunteers help set up the Jackets for Jobs Prom Dress Boutique. Photo credit: Andre Smith.

Comerica Cares volunteers help operate and assist during the Jackets For Jobs Prom Dress Boutique.

Detroit Grand Prix Director of Communications Merrill Cain (left), who also served as host, asks INDY NXT by Firestone rookie driver Myles Rowe (middle) and Force Indy team principal Rod Reid (right) about their perspectives in the racing world. Reid also offered insight on Nexgeneracers (NXG) karting and life skills youth development program that expanded to Detroit in 2021 and continues to grow locally.

Performance Engineer for the No. 5 Arrow McLaren NTT INDYCAR SERIES, Kate Gundlach, offers perspectives on engineering and women in auto racing.

Students from Edsel Ford High School in Dearborn watch the Virtual Career Conversation offered by the Detroit Grand Prix and Comerica Bank.

INDY NXT by Firestone rookie driver Salvador de Alba takes about his career as a driver.

The Cost of Being a Woman: A $1.6 Trillion Wage Gap

By Bria Overs

This story was originally published in Word In Black

On this year’s Equal Pay Day, there’s little to celebrate. Although women now earn more than ever, the gender wage gap persists. And they’re feeling the pain in this current economy and political climate.

In 2023, women earned, on average, 21.8% less than men, according to the Economic Policy Institute. While that’s better than 2022, where women made 22.9% less, it’s not necessarily because jobs are starting to pay better — and higher education and self-advocacy only improved wages so much. The EPI found that the pay improvement is likely because men’s wages have stagnated.

Research from the National Partnership for Women and Families found that women lose $1.6 trillion yearly because of the wage gap. “That’s a lot of money that we want in the pockets of women and their families,” Jocelyn Frye, president of the organization, says.

For Black, Latina, and Indigenous women, the wage gap problem is compounded by racial and gender discrimination, along with occupational segregation. These factors not only contribute to pay disparity with white men but also Asian women and white women.

Because of the type of jobs these women work, many of which are hourly positions with little to no options for retirement savings, health insurance, and other benefits, this pay discrepancy adds to the racial wealth gap for each racial and ethnic group.

Frye adds that Black and Latina mothers, in particular, are more often the primary or sole breadwinners of their families, making them the “key to economic stability for their families.”

“When you ensure that they can participate in the economy equally, then they will do better, and their families will do better,” she says. “We know that centering women of color and the economic narrative is really critical to the economic growth of our families and our nation.”

The Wage Gap and Reproductive Justice

When women enter motherhood, they are hit with the “motherhood penalty” — a unique phenomenon where women see a decline in their earnings that can last the rest of their working years.

But beyond that, since the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade in June 2022, several states have made women’s reproductive

See WAGE GAP Page A-6

By Jeremy Allen EXECUTIVE EDITOR

The Metro Detroit Black Business Alliance is changing, but for the better. The organization has experienced steadfast growth in all areas and has now shifted to a statewide focus and will be called the Michigan Black Business Alliance.

The Michigan Black Business Alliance made its announcement during the 2nd Annual State of Black Business Luncheon on Thursday, March 14. Under the expansion, which is supported by state funding, the Alliance will bring programs that help entrepreneurs gain access to capital, build relationships with financial institutions, and improve administrative capacity, and the expansion will begin in the cities of Flint and Lansing.

“Our work to close the racial wealth gap through strengthening Black businesses is critical now more than ever,” says Charity

Dean, President and CEO of Michigan Black Business Alliance. “According to the W.K. Kellogg Foundation, the state of Michigan’s economy stands to gain $92 billion if it were to eliminate those gaps. Our unique programs and bold policy advocacy have helped decision makers begin to approach small businesses as essential drivers of economic development. We’ve started that change in Detroit. We will continue the change in Detroit. Now we’re going to bring that change across the state.”

Senate Appropriations Chair Senator Sarah Anthony (D-Senate District 21) celebrated the expansion, saying, “Small businesses are the driving force behind our economy. Over the years it’s become clear to me we have been limiting our potential by failing to invest in the diverse talent and skill of Black and brown entrepreneurs and small business owners in urban communities across our state. I was proud to secure funding in the state budget to ensure this transformational expansion into Flint and my hometown of Lansing and

cement the future success of the Michigan Black Business Alliance.”

The Michigan Black Business Alliance’s mission is to help close the racial wealth gap by creating programs and advocating for policies that result in thriving Black businesses. The Alliance, which supports business owners regardless of their race, represents over 1,500 small businesses. Since 2021, the Alliance has supported over 2,000 businesses, generating over $10 million in funding for those businesses. Additionally, the Alliance has funded 2,700 hours of paid internships, given a total of $395,000 to 158 business owners for investment income, and created hundreds of sustainable jobs.

In addition to announcing its expansion, the Alliance showcased its annual report and hosted panels discussing the current landscape of supporting small businesses.

To learn more about the Michigan Black Business Alliance, visit blackbizalliance.org.

Wage Gap

From page A-5

health a legislative target. So far, 14 states have banned abortions, while 11 states have gestational limits between six and 22 weeks, according to KFF.

“Many of the attacks we see, we believe, have multiple effects as we’ve seen across the board,” Frye says. “It’s not just about abortion, it’s access to IVF, access to OBGYN care writ large, it’s maternal health. All of those things affect the economic stability of families.”

Businesses Could Help Solve the Gap

Both Frye and the Economic Policy Institute believe federal and state pol-

icymakers should do more to close the pay gap. In 2017, the Trump administration suspended an Obama-era wage gap initiative that required companies with 100 or more employees to confidentially report to the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) what they pay employees, categorized by job type, sex, race, and ethnicity.

The Salary Transparency Act and Pay Equity for All Act were introduced in Congress in March 2023, but there has been no movement in the year since. States like California, Maryland, and New York have passed laws requiring salary ranges on job postings.

However, state efforts only partially solve the pay gap issue because women could easily fall on the lower

end of the salary range. Besides, some employers still ask for previous pay history, making it more challenging for women to negotiate pay that reflects their worth.

While the nation waits for legislation, business owners can help with this issue by examining and addressing how they pay women in their workplaces.

“We really have to rely on employers to do their own due diligence and to include race and gender into the analysis they do because many will say they are looking at their gender pay gap, but then won’t look deeper,” Frye says. They should “look at how they’re enforcing and ensuring they’re looking at their workforce on a regular basis to minimize inequality.”

and sustain the Detroit Area Talent Fund, committing a total of $1 million to support students. The new partners are contributing a combined $770,000 to further support the program, expand regional support, and provide additional scholarship funding and wraparound services for students.

“Covering tuition is just one part of the equation,” said Ruthe Farmer, Founder and Chief Executive Office of the Last Mile Education Fund. “Too often financially vulnerable students struggle to afford basic needs like transportation, food, housing and connectivity. This fund fills a critical gap in financial support for Detroit Area STEM students.”

Michigan Central is committed to increasing access to learning and skills development for Detroiters.

“Michigan Central has developed a series of mobility tech training initiatives for learners of all ages in Detroit, and we see first-hand in our programs how basic needs like childcare and transportation can become roadblocks to success,” said Clarinda Barnett-Harrison,

Director of Skills for Michigan Central. “That’s why we are proud to join the Detroit Area Talent Fund and be part of a solution that empowers students to navigate these barriers and stay on track to join the workforce of the future.”

This fund builds on the Detroit Regional Chamber’s broader education and talent strategy, which is focused on increasing access, ensuring success, and growing talent to provide opportunities to all residents throughout the region.

“Removing barriers to graduation, like offering emergency support through programs such as the Detroit Area Talent Fund, is crucial to reaching our 60% attainment goal,” said Sandy K. Baruah, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Detroit Regional Chamber. “The Chamber, as the regional voice for business and its comprehensive education and talent program portfolio, is proud to partner with the Rocket Community Fund on this innovative effort.”

Applications are open on a rolling basis and can be found at https://www.lastmile-ed.org/.

ShotStoppers Program Shows That Community Violence Intervention and ‘Love is Working’

By Ebony JJ Curry SENIOR REPORTER

“It’s not a hard thing. It’s strategic,” shared FORCE Detroit Public Health & Safety Director Zoe Kennedy, an organization that is leading the city of Detroit’s Community Violence Intervention (CVI) initiative, highlighting what has been the driving force behind the success of CVI and ShotStoppers. “What we’re doing is intentional. Two to one percent of the population participates in cycles of violence. For whatever reasons whatever root causes, we have a connection and relationship with that network. We use our lived experience and our reputations and our connections in that social network to mitigate violence.”

Detroit’s ShotStoppers initiative, a pioneering approach to community violence intervention (CVI), has been making headlines with its remarkable success in drastically reducing violent crime rates in several of the city’s most troubled neighborhoods. This program, supported by Deputy Mayor Todd Bettison and backed by the city’s administration, is part of a broader strategy aimed at empowering local organizations to lead the charge in transforming their communities into safer and more unified spaces.

At the heart of the ShotStoppers initiative are two standout groups, FORCE Detroit and Detroit Friends & Family, which have been instrumental in achieving the most significant reductions in violence within the CVI Zones. These zones are specifically targeted areas within Detroit that have historically suffered from high levels of violent crime. The recent data, covering the second quarterly reporting period from November 1, 2023, to January 31, 2024, reveals that these two organizations managed to reduce violence by about 50% and 70%, respectively, in their designated areas. Deputy Mayor Bettison says that the only kind of success is “fewer people being shot in the city of Detroit.”

“The guys that I grew up with felt like it was our duty to help these kids, because a lot of the stuff they were following were things that we set into trend and we deemed cool,” said 33-yearold William Nicholson of Detroit Friends and Family. “So, we

couldn’t sit back and just continue to let the kids die and kill each other over nothing. So that’s what our biggest drive was, to get involved in this type of work and to be able to just be there for them and let them know, like, I understand what you’re going through, because I’ve been there before, and some of us still be there sometimes.”

“It hasn’t necessarily been tough, because we come from that community,” explained Nicholson. “We are that community. You feel me? They see us on a daily, so they know where we come from. They know that we ain’t here to cause no trouble or no harm towards them. We are only here to help y’all better y’all situation. And it’s really like a full wraparound because they’re helping us better our situation at the same time. So, it’s a lot of love in this.”

The initiative operates on a performance-based model, a distinctive feature that sets Detroit’s CVI program apart from similar programs in other cities. This model not only measures the success of the interventions by the reductions in homicides and non-fatal shootings but also rewards the participating groups with performance bonuses for their effective strategies. In this recent quarter qualifying for the CVI program’s very first performance bonuses, FORCE Detroit received a $175,000 performance grant for its work in the westside CVI Zone, encompassing the Warrendale and Franklin Park neighborhoods, while Detroit Friends and Family were awarded an $87,500 grant for their efforts in the east-

side CVI Zone, which includes the Outer Drive-Hayes neighborhood and surrounding areas.

“We’ve been able to be successful because we do strategic planning when it comes to cross neighborhood coordination,” shared Kennedy. “We want to set a standard for the rest of the country. And our standard that we want to set is that if a city, if the politicians, if the corporations, if the philanthropic space, if the faith base, if the streets, if the education system gives access, we can reduce homicides and non-fatal shootings. And this city is a city that allows that access. We just need more. And we approve of that. We’re going to have a good, clean summer too.”

Alia Harvey-Quinn, the executive director and founder, the heart and soul behind FORCE Detroit, sheds light on the simple yet powerful foundation of their work in the ShotStoppers initiative: a deep-seated belief in love and trust. She opens up about the essence of their mission, saying, “I think love is working. It’s actually caring about people who are at the center of violence.” She emphasizes the importance of empathy in their challenging work, saying, “It’s not an easy job to look somebody in the face and have empathy when horrid acts are, like, in the middle of it. But that’s what actually solves this problem.” She went on to further highlight the core of their strategy: “What solves this problem is having empathy, recognizing that trauma is the reason behind acts of violence, and showing up with care, resources, love, and consistency.” Harvey-Quinn

believes these values are the key to the positive changes seen in FORCE Detroit’s designated zone.

“Oftentimes community members, when something bad happens, they’ll say, we saw it coming if somebody just had got involved,” said Bettison. But these groups here, that’s what they do, they get involved. “They even help with relocation after something happens. And so, they all have their various approaches to what they’re doing. Some of them are in high schools, working with the kids, partnering with the various high schools in the city, and gaining the kids’ trust. They have different approaches as to what they’re doing,” he said. “I just really only expect this to get better and better.”

The ShotStoppers initiative is part of a larger effort funded by a $10 million allocation from President Biden’s American Rescue Plan Act. Each of the six participating community-based organizations receives a base budget of $175,000 per quarter to implement their unique violence prevention strategies. “We’re anticipating about $8 million [of state funding] a year for CVI, as far as continuation of it,” said Bettison. “It hasn’t passed the state senate yet, but my friends behind me, these various groups, they’re going to be advocating for it. And I think that the rest of the citizens of Detroit who want safety will advocate for it as well.” These strategies often involve engaging individuals with personal experiences of violence to help mediate disputes and mentor at-risk individuals, aiming to prevent conflicts from escalating into

violence. Although there has been positive data on violence intervention by these organizations, many may still ask, does community violence intervention really work?

According to the evident data, the lives were saved, the minds changed, and according to Mayor Bettison, “the data is showing preliminarily that, yes, it does work.”

Performance in the program is quantified through a “CVI Score,” which is calculated based on the number of homicides (doubled) plus non-fatal shootings within each group’s designated zone. “We know that our program is different from any other city’s program because no other program has a performance metric and base where I can say and attribute their work to the data,” Bettison said. To qualify for a performance grant, a group must not only reduce its CVI Score below the level of the previous year but also achieve a decline that is at least ten percentage points greater than the reduction seen in areas of the city not served by the CVI program.

The success of the ShotStoppers initiative and the substantial reductions in violence achieved by groups like FORCE Detroit and Detroit Friends & Family reflects the potential of community-led interventions. These groups’ ability to significantly improve safety and cohesion within their neighborhoods serves as a model for other communities grappling with similar challenges. As the program moves forward, the city plans to extend the initiative for another year for the most successful groups, further solidifying the role of community-based strategies in fostering safer, more connected urban environments.

“We support the city. We support the ShotStoppers initiative,” said Kennedy. “If you see something working right, invest in it. Invest in it long term, because we are a complement to public health and safety, and this does something for individuals who come from the lifestyle. Everything we’ve seen done, every mother that we see cry, every balloon that we see go up in the sky, every piece of wax off the candle that burnt our hands, every shirt that got pressed with our family members on it, every GoFundMe that had to be established because we was living in poverty, it ain’t in vain. We got purpose now....we got purpose now.”

(L to R) Alia Harvey-Quinn executive director and founder of FORCE Detroit, Deputy Todd Bettison, Ray Winans CEO and founder of Detroit Friends and Family

Detroit

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Comerica

The

data, as well as community development loans, investments and services between Jan. 1, 2021, and June 30, 2023.

“Comerica Bank is committed to serving our communities and we are honored to have earned an Outstanding CRA rating,” said Wendy Bridges, Comerica Bank Executive Vice President, Corporate Responsibility. “We elevated how we support and serve individuals and businesses, as well as boost economic development in our footprint in recent years. We look forward to carrying this momentum into our milestone 175th anniversary year and beyond.”

Comerica’s most notable achievements during the review period that contributed to its Outstanding CRA rating include:

■ 18,000 mortgage loans totaling $5.6 billion and 32,000 small business loans totaling $6 billion inside Comerica’s assessment areas;

■ 1,300 community development loans totaling $5.3 billion inside assessment areas (65% of the loans -- by count -were purposed for economic development);

■ 1,300 community development dona-

2023,

tions totaling $16 million and investments totaling more than $350 million;

■ Comerica employees provided 22,000 hours of

■ Comerica’s Financial Education Brigade of approximately 1,000 employees volunteered virtually or in person to help meet the identified need for financial education throughout the bank’s assessment areas; and

■ Opened Comerica BusinessHQ in May

Game Changers:

COLLEAGUE SPOTLIGHT

Rhonda Davenport Retiring Following Lengthy Career at Comerica Bank

Rhonda Davenport Johnson holds the position of executive vice president, National Director Retail Banking for Comerica Bank.

In her role, Davenport is responsible for the development and leadership of retail banking center activities nationally in five states, including overseeing Comerica’s more than 400 banking centers, which employ approximately 2,600 employees.

Davenport is departing Comerica next month, retiring with more than 36 years of excellence in her tenure.

“Throughout her career, Rhonda has distinguished herself as someone who can align teams with an organizational vision and lead with empathy and integrity while delivering on business objectives always with a focus on the customer. She has been instrumental in the strength of the retail division and we wish her the best as she prepares for retirement,” said Cassandra McKinney, Comerica Bank Executive Vice President, Executive Director of the Retail Bank. After graduating from Western Michigan University with an undergraduate and MBA degree and spending a few years at another bank as an assistant bank manager, she was hired at the age of 24 by Comerica as a Bank Manager in Kalamazoo, Michigan. She is proudly retiring after nearly four decades of esteemed service.

Davenport says that the things that have kept her at Comerica are the company and what we stand for, as well as the people and their commitment to customers, each other and the communities. Additionally, she notes that the opportunity to deliver business goals, and mentor others to build leaders of the future has fueled her career.

When asked how she rose through the ranks of Comerica Bank to a position of national standing, Davenport explains, “3 P’s (Performance, Principled Leadership and People) is a leadership model my husband Chris and I developed.”

The model is one that Davenport has deployed in her role as a mentor to dozens of employees. Some of her best advice says, performance is critical and deliver on your business objectives.

After more than 36 years, Davenport is retiring from Comerica and concluding her storied career.

“Treat people the way you want to be treated, have high expectations for yourself and invest in your professional development. And it is important to give back, because to whom much is given much is required.” Davenport also notes, “Never waver from your character and values,” she explains.

Throughout her career Davenport provided volunteer leadership supporting dozens of organizations that impact others such as Hospice of Michigan as the Foundation Board Chair, Michigan Abolitionist project doing work in human trafficking, Urban League and American Cancer Society to name a few.

Serving the community has always been a passion for Davenport. In 2019, Davenport (speaking) represented Comerica at the annual American Cancer Society Making Strides Against Breast Cancer walk in Detroit.

She notes, “Anything I’ve accomplished is through God’s goodness, and I stand on the shoulders of others that came before me such as my parents, siblings, other family members and mentors. In addition, I’ve been blessed by many colleagues, leaders, and teams all of whom who have contributed significantly to my success.

“As I traveled through the journey of my life, I wanted to make a difference in the lives of others and God positioned me at the wonderful organization of Comerica to do just that. My legacy is we are here for a purpose and to make an impact. Banking is a profession that allows us to do that.”

In her well-earned retirement, Davenport notes that her plan is to “Live a life of significance,” she adds. “There is an opportunity to make an impact on a larger scale by continuing to serve via community service.” She plans to continue work in human trafficking and enter other doors the Lord opens along the way.

Davenport’s advice to her colleagues as she leaves is, “Help others especially our customers and communities, be a social justice advocate, role model and mentor others… finally, make a difference in the lives of others.”

Rhonda Davenport, Executive Vice President and National Director of Retail Banking.

Detroit Pistons Pulls Out All Stops for 313 Day with a Grand Celebration

By Ebony JJ Curry SENIOR REPORTER

Detroiters, 313 Day this year was not just another day on the calendar; it was a vivid tapestry of our city’s culture, vibrance, and unbreakable spirit, all coming alive at the Detroit Pistons’ game against the Toronto Raptors. This wasn’t just basketball; it was Detroit in its purest form, celebrating our roots, our achievements, and our unwavering community spirit.

“I always think of Detroit as the trendsetter and the culture creator, so for us to be able to use our platform is super important because the same aspect of our ‘city’s different’ so is our league,” Bilal Saeed, Pistons VP Brand and Marketing Strategy shared with the Chronicle. “No other league like the NBA impacts our fashion and culture the way the NBA does and when you’re the Detroit Piston’s in the league that makes that kind of impact in those spaces, it’s a responsibility to lead that celebration especially on 313 Day, and we want to celebrate that the best way we can.”

This celebration by the Detroit Pistons truly resonated with everyone who took part. When you make your way to Chevy Plaza, you can feel the excitement all around. The Ally inflatable Pop-a-Shot was a standout, bringing back the joy of simpler times, but with a cool Pistons spin that got everyone charged up.

Then there was the Ally show car by the Comerica Entrance, which was a different level of fly. This wasn’t just any ride; it was Detroit pride rolling on four wheels, flaunting our city’s rich automotive heritage. This Pistons-themed car, having competed in the FireKeepers Casino 400 NASCAR Cup Series at Michigan International Speedway last August, stood as a proud emblem of our city’s love affair with cars.

The excitement inside was just as electrifying. The first 3,130 fans were treated to the Pistons 313 Statement chains, a shiny token of appreciation from Ally that instantly became a symbol of unity and pride among the fans. But the uniqueness of the celebration didn’t end there. A collaboration with Detroit vs. Everybody and Hip Hues brought forth special 313 Day t-shirts, limited to just 500 pieces, turning them into instant treasures amongst the crowd.

Artistry was woven into the fabric of the day, with local artist Allison Sims setting up shop on the concourse, breathing life into hats with her live painting. This wasn’t just about watching a game; it was about experiencing the pulse of Detroit’s creative heart, live and in color.

The musical lineup for the evening was nothing short of spectacular, turning the game into a concert that celebrated Detroit’s rich musical legacy. Bobbi Storm’s rendition of the National Anthem was a soul-stirring start, setting a high bar for the night. Detroit’s own Baby Money kept the energy high with an in-game performance that had everyone on their feet, while Veeze’s halftime show was the epit-

The Rise of Affirmation Music is Making History, and Black Women Musicians Are Leading the Way

By Miss AJ Williams

A new wave of music has emerged in recent years, offering listeners more than just catchy tunes and rhythms. Affirmation Music, as it has come to be known, is a genre that seeks to uplift, inspire, and empower its listeners through positive affirmations and messages of self-love. At the forefront of this movement are black women musicians like Toni Jones, Lavva, Geminelle, and Coax Marie, to name a few, who are not only reshaping the music industry but also making history in the process.

One such musician is Detroit native Toni Jones, whose contributions to Affirmation Music have been monumental. Her music has resonated deeply with audiences, earning her the title of “The Queen of Affirmation Music.” Jones’ journey to becoming a pioneer in this genre began with a profound inspiration rooted in the power of creating without doubt.

“I witnessed the power of creating something without any doubt,” Jones explains. The process was so enjoyable that I stopped worrying about the outcome and fell in love with it.” This shift in perspective transformed her approach to music and led her to embrace Affirmation Music wholeheartedly.

Jones coined the term “Affirmation Music” to describe a genre focusing on positive self-talk and empowerment. This genre has gained popularity due to its ability to combat negative self-talk and feelings of inadequacy, which many people struggle with. The rise of Affirmation Music can also be attributed to the COVID-19 pandemic, which forced people to confront their inner demons and seek ways to improve their mental health and well-being.

“For far too long, people have been plagued by negative selftalk and feelings of inadequacy,” says Jones. “The pandemic had us at a standstill to confront this negativity head-on, and many of us are ready to live a life that we truly love and are proud of.”

Affirmation Music serves as a form of self-care and healing, allowing listeners to cultivate a healthier relationship with themselves. It provides a space for positive affirmations to be embedded in music, making it both uplifting and therapeutic. This genre has resonated with audiences worldwide, who are seeking ways to nurture their well-being and self-love.

Lavva’s music is a vehicle for self-expression and empowerment. Her soulful tunes resonate with audiences, offering a sanctuary from negative self-talk and doubt.

Geminelle, on the other hand, muses to uplift and inspire, infusing her songs with messages of resilience and self-belief.

Coax Marie’s music celebrates self-love and acceptance. Her lyrics, woven into melodic tapestries, remind us of the beauty and strength that lies within each of us. Together, these musicians are paving the way for a new era of music—one that celebrates diversity, empowerment, and authenticity.

The impact of Affirmation Music can be felt in everyday life, as listeners experience tangible benefits from engaging with this genre. As black women musicians like Toni Jones, Lavva, Geminell, and Coax Marie continue to lead the way, Affirmation Music is poised to become a transformative force in the music industry and beyond.

Reigning Supreme: Detroit’s Female Rappers Rewrite the Rulebook and Command the Mic

By Amber Ogden CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Despite the rap industry’s long-standing male dominance, a wave of exceptionally talented female emcees is breaking through. Notably, many remarkable women hail from Detroit, a city with a storied musical past and a history of pioneering firsts. Among these trailblazers was Lichelle Marie Laws, better known by her stage name Bo$$, a woman who etched her name in history as the first female emcee to secure a record deal with Def Jam. This monumental achievement paved the way for many others. Sadly, Laws’ recent passing at the age of 54 leaves a legacy of resilience and determination, inspiring a new generation of female emcees.

Over the years, the world of music has witnessed the emergence of several talented artists out of the city, including Kash Doll, Dej Loaf, and Neisha Neshae. These female artists have established themselves in the industry, each with unique styles—continually setting the bar higher with each mix tape, album, or single release.

The tradition of emerging female emcees is still alive through the energetic and distinctive style of up-and-coming artists like Lana LaDonna. Also named “That Gworl,” Lana always brings the heat; recently drop-

ping ‘On Yo Radar,’ she infuses her music with her larger-than-life persona and firey lyrics. “I knew I wanted to be an entertainer. I’ve been practicing my autograph for as long as I can remember. I looked at artists like Ice Cube, Snoop Dogg, JLo, Beyonce, and even Rihanna. These people started as music artists, and now they’re moguls. Knowing

that I don’t want to do anything else—I’ve never wanted to do anything else—that’s what keeps me going,” Lana Ladonna said.

In October 2023, Lana Ladonna made her mark in the music industry by headlining her first solo concert at The Willis Show Bar. Before this, she delivered an electrifying performance at the Motor City Roots Festival, which marked her first-ever

concert appearance.

Kash Doll, a talented female rapper, has been teasing her fans with recent hit singles like ‘’Power Freestyle’’, ‘’F*** ‘Em’’ and ‘’Big 1’’. Her highly anticipated new album is set to be released in May, and she plans to embark on a tour in the fall of this year. Female lyricists like Kash Doll constantly push the boundaries in the music industry, and she is undoubtedly one to watch.

Brooklyn Queen is a talented and ambitious emcee who has been making waves in the Detroit rap game since a young age. At just 18, she has already established herself and earned her spot in the industry. With her talent, drive, and dedication, it’s clear that Brooklyn Queen is well on her way to becoming a household name in the rap game.

“God plays a big part in my life and family, and I’m dedicated to what I do. Having this career is my dream. I don’t see myself doing anything else. So that motivates me to keep working and striving in my career,” Brooklyn Queen said.

Looking to the future, Brooklyn Queen is excited about the possibility of one of her songs becoming a hit and taking her to even greater heights. She loves the rush

Toni Jones

Lavva

Coax Marie

Geminell

Detroit Female Rappers

From page

of performing on stage and connecting with her audience and is eager to perform on as many stages as possible in the coming summer months.

“Performing the music and creating the music is the most exciting part for me. Getting on the stage and being in the bright lights is exciting, and I love that feeling,” Brooklyn Queen said.

Even closer to home, former Michigan Chronicle Multimedia Journalist Lynzee Mychael released her own LP. Mychael, whose stage name is Cherri Gordi, dropped her project on Jan. 12, 2024. The 10-song Low Sister is a mix of Mychael’s gritty lyricism, slick rhyme schemes, and smooth flow over a series of melodic yet hard-hitting beats.

Throughout the history of rap music, rap battles have been a highly regarded method for rappers to showcase their bar game and attack their opponents lyrically. These rap battles are considered a test of one’s rap prowess and are often used to sharpen their skills in the booth.

Miz Korona, an award-winning Detroit rapper with a history in battle rapping, is essential to the rap game. In the movie 8 Mile, she battled rapper Xzibit in the famous “lunch truck” scene. She has become a standout artist who has significantly impacted the industry by commanding her audience with her Detroit style and lyrical prowess. As a heavy hitter in her own right, she will perform alongside rap legends Rakim, Big Herk, Kid Capri, Dj Los, and Awesome Dre on Mar. 27 at the Sound Board, Motor City Casino, as the only female emcee on the run of the show.

At times, rap battles are born from social media beef. A ‘friendly fire’ between rapper Jazmin Renae, who wrote “No Kit” in response to Pretty Brayah’s “Captin Underpants,” caught the attention of many. These battles can pressure artists to get in the booth and produce new music, as both rappers continue to do after the beef by dropping consistent visuals with their singles.

Opposite of the beef and battles can also bring female artists together on collaborative projects. A notable project is the “We Run the City” track titled “No Hook,” directed by rapper and director Carla Rae, the CEO. The track showcases the lyrical skills of female rappers, such as Brooklyn Queen, Slime, Lana Ladonna, and Klajuan.

Lana Ladonna discussed her dream collaboration, which reflects her taste in music and personality. She mentioned a few famous artists, such as Beyonce, Rihanna, Drake, Nicki Minaj, and Future, but revealed that Cardi B was why she got into music. She also expressed her desire to work with producers like Pharrell, Dr. Dre, and Timbaland.

When asked what she is most looking forward to in her career, Lana Ladonna said, “Blowing up! Skyrocketing!”

313 Day

From page B-1

ome of the city’s celebrated Detroit rap scene.

The Pistons also took this opportunity to honor one of Detroit’s most influential musical figures, J. Dilla. The launch of the J. Dilla retail collection, in collaboration with Royce 5’9”, was more than just merchandise; it was a tribute to a legend whose beats still echo in the heart of the city. The collection, especially the in-arena exclusive pieces, connected fans not just to the Pistons but to a legacy of Detroit’s musical innovation and genius.

Naturally, the city took the opportunity to honor the trailblazers and barrier-breakers among us, dubbing them ‘313 Hometown Heroes.’ From writers to justice advocates and community leaders, these individuals from a myriad of sectors were spotlighted and celebrated during the game. This special tribute was all

about recognizing those who embody the true spirit and resilience of Detroit.

“I don’t think any city has pride for their city the way Detroit has pride for their city,” Saeed said. “We love letting people know where we’re from and why we love that we’re from here.”

So, yeah, this 313 Day with the Pistons was more than just a game day. It was a day where every moment felt like a shoutout to what makes Detroit, Detroit. From the hoops to the tunes and everything in between, it was all love, all Detroit.

It was a celebration not just of a team or a sport but of a community that stands strong together, proud of its past and excited for its future. It was a day where every dunk, every cheer, and every note of music was a testament to the indomitable spirit of Detroit.

Oh, and let’s not forget the icing on the cake - we won! Detroiters, we thrive on that high energy and the sweet taste of victory, no matter what. Even with the season we’ve been having, the Pistons

came through on 313 Day like they knew we needed that uplift. They brought it home with a solid win over the Raptors, 113 to 104, making us all sit up a little prouder. And let me tell you, this wasn’t just any win; their previous home game against the Hornets allowed Wednesday to be the first time we’ve seen back-toback home game victories this season. This 313 Day wasn’t just a celebration; it was a statement. We’re still riding that high from the Lions’ historic season, and with the NFL draft right around the corner, the city’s buzzing. Plus, the weather decided to play nice, giving us that perfect backdrop. It’s like Detroit is living out Blade Icewood’s words, “Boss up and get this money.” It’s more than just a mantra; it’s our lifestyle. And as we look forward to next year, one thing is clear: Detroit knows how to celebrate, and we do it with heart, with pride, and with an unwavering love for our city.

So, here’s to Detroit, showing up and showing out, always keeping that spirit alive.

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Responsibilities:

• Set policy, then delegate implementation of policy to school personnel,

• Monitor the implementation of

•Assure the

are being achieved,

• Monitor to see that contract obligations to the authorizer are fulfilled,

• Work as a team with other board members and the school staff, and

•Consistently serve the best interests of students and parents.

Compensation:

Board members will not be compensated for any board meetings, committee meetings, or for any Academy functions or for any services rendered to the Board or the Academy.

Job Type: Part-time

Hours per week: Less than 10

Candidates can view the full job posting and apply online at INDEED via the following link:

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Financial planners are in high demand and are well-compensated for their expertise. A financial advisor can pull in a generous salary right out of the gate, and earning the right credentials can boost compensation significantly. The median income for those with CFP® certification and less than 5 years of experience is $100,000 — and that median figure grows to $206,000 with 10 or more years of experience. In general, financial advisors with CFP® certification earn 12% more than those without.

• Being a CFP® professional offers good work-life balance. With the potential to work remotely and create one’s own schedule, financial planning is a career path well-suited to those looking for flexibility and a desirable work-life balance.

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Research also finds that female CFP® professionals have a unique dedication to providing holistic financial planning. Working as a financial planner provides opportunities to uplift and empower other women, as well as members of groups historically given fewer opportunities to accumulate wealth.

• Women who aspire to become CFP® professionals will find support in many places. CFP Board, for example, has implemented initiatives to recruit women and advance their careers.

Some firms subsidize the cost of CFP® certification and give employees time away from work to study for the CFP® exam. Additionally, women’s networks and business councils can help build leadership skills and professional confidence, and many firms are even paying their employees’ membership fees.

CFP Board also administers scholarships for individuals underrepresented in the field, along with a mentoring program.

To learn more and get started today on your path to becoming a CFP® professional, visit getCFPcertified.org.

With demand for personal financial advisors expected to grow significantly in the coming years, and the industry making way for more women professionals, it’s worth exploring this rewarding career path.

(StatePoint) With grocery store shelves loaded up with new and unfamiliar products,

PHOTO SOURCE: (c) monkeybusinessimages / iStock via Getty Images Plus

Making a world of difference starts at home.

Huntington Bank & the Michigan Chronicle present the ninth annual Students Wired for Achievement and Greatness Scholarship Awards,

Huntington Bank & the Michigan Chronicle present the ninth annual Students Wired for Achievement and Greatness Scholarship Awards,

Huntington Bank & the Michigan Chronicle present the ninth annual Students Wired for Achievement and Greatness Scholarship Awards,

Huntington Bank & the Michigan Chronicle present the ninth annual Students Wired for Achievement and Greatness Scholarship Awards,

-

Five Detroit educators will be awarded a $1,000 classroom grant.

Five Detroit educators will be awarded a $1,000 classroom grant.

Five Detroit educators will be awarded a $1,000 classroom grant.

Five Detroit educators will be awarded a $1,000 classroom grant.