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Pick-Me-Up

Parents see what one of our Keys 2 Life Sponsors (Max & Marjorie Fisher Foundation) had to say about our last year’s summer camp.
At The Yunion’s “Keys 2 Life” summer camp program, Detroit youth spent their long, warm days engaged in performing arts activities that were both inspiring and engaging, even on a screen.
Like nearly all performing arts organizations during the COVID-19 pandemic, The Yunion was forced to vastly re-imagine the camp’s model of engagement.
Leaders were almost certain the camp would have to pause all in-person arts programming, or worse, be closed altogether. “We honestly were not sure if a ‘virtual camp’ would really work,’’ said Nicole Wilson, Executive Director of The Yunion.
Even for an organization steeped in creative thinking, the challenges of pivoting the camp and the online learning curve were considerable. Even still, the “team presented some wonderfully creative ideas that really tapped into the fun of camp,” Wilson said. The end result was a four-week virtual camp for musical and artistic youth ages 11 to 17.
Part of The Yunion’s creative pivot included incorporating elements such as daily live “pick-me-up” sessions designed to engage students personally before breaking into small groups. Campers also had their pick of opportunities to study acting, beatmaking, songwriting, orchestral string music, and dance.
What looked like certain doom turned into a moment of reinforced purpose, one likely to continue guiding The Yunion as it plans its summer camp programs for years to come. The creative community that The Yunion has built is one of energy and resilience.
“Gathering as a family looks different in the face of our new adversities,’’ Keys 2 Life camp leaders told youth and parents, “but it is still as essential as it has always been to connect with people for support.’’
If you’d like to hear more about our camp visit us at www.keys2lifesummercamp.com

Build Strong Children Than Repair Broken Men

February 15, 2021

“It’s easier to build strong children than repair broken men.” – Frederick Douglas This statement is so true and we see it everyday in our work. Children start off with a light and innocence that comes natural to them. Over time we see life experiences…

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Black History Month Part 2

February 10, 2021

If you missed the broadcast yesterday here is what you missed. For Black History Month, WDIV Local 4 / ClickOnDetroit is shining a spotlight on change-makers in our community, including our CEO & Founder Jason Wilson who is combining martial arts and life experiences to…

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Black History Month Change Maker

February 9, 2021

We are honored that our CEO and FounderJason Wilson is one of the amazing Detroiters featured as a WDIV Local 4 / ClickOnDetroit Black History Month Change Maker. The shortened segment airs today at 6pm (EST) and the full story this weekend. Thank youLarry Spruill…

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Sticks and Stones

February 8, 2021

Yesterday we had an Amazing Cast and Crew meeting with the team from the new movie The Yunion is producing called “Sticks and Stones”. We are excited to have such a group of dynamic actors and crew members. Stay tuned, much more to come. Let’s…

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A Path for Success

February 4, 2021

Here is a great article about the great work we are doing in the Metro Detroit Area. It also highlights our partner with Wayne State University’s School of Social Work. https://socialwork.wayne.edu/…/a-path-for-success…    

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The Service for Youth and Families Part 2

February 3, 2021

Let’s try this again. Do you know any youth and or families in need of additional support in the Metro Detroit area or Wayne County.

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The Service for Youth and Families

February 3, 2021

The Yunion has programs to service youth and families in the Metro Detroit area.

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First Day Back In A Face 2 Face and Virtual Class

February 3, 2021

Yesterday was our first day back in a Face 2 Face space since March 5th, 2020. We had a hybrid session, 4 students in person and about 15 students virtually. Our Life Guides (JayPittsNeriah Reign) did a great job and the students really had a…

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The Yunion Charitable Foundation

February 1, 2021

We can’t do the work without your support! The Yunion would like to thank the Comerica Charitable Foundation for selecting us as grant recipients its’ fourth grant season of 2020. Their support will help us in continuing the work of the CATTA, training young boys…

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National Story About Self-harm And Online Suicide Games.

January 27, 2021

Southfield Public Schools sent out an email to warn its 5,600 families after the district was contacted by concerned parents who heard a national story about self-harm and online suicide games.

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Parenting During The Pandemic Is Challenging

January 26, 2021

Parents, we know parenting during the pandemic is challenging. Our CEO (Jason Wilson) and Executive Director (Nicole Wilson) learned it’s better to do a little extra during this season to help their son decompress so he wouldn’t be overwhelmed with stress. By giving your child…

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Thrive In A Distant Learning

January 25, 2021

One of our program (CATTA) participants Jason W. made the honor roll this past card marking. Parents, it’s possible for your child to thrive in a distant learning environment if you and your child are initial about the results you want and consistently doing the…

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Tips For Your Weekends

January 22, 2021

Checking in with Parents to see how your week has good and see what plans you have for the weekend.

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The Yunion Growth

January 21, 2021

#tbt #tbthursday A year ago today we officially moved into our new building. Since then a lot has happened but we are still grateful for all the love and support we’ve received through the years. Hopefully, we’ll be back working from the building soon and…

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Ways To Build Your Self-Esteem

January 20, 2021

Parents: Self-Esteem or self-worth is more than how you feel about yourself. It’s also about how capable you are to meet life’s challenges and feel worthy of happiness. You can build self-esteem in your child/teen by developing three “A’s”. Affirmation, Achievement, and Affirmation. Affirmation: Being…

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Our Children Need Our Presence

January 18, 2021

“Our children need our presence, not our presents.” Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Parents Happy MLK Day. We hope you are able to rest and enjoy your family today. As we reflect on the life and legacy of Dr. King, remember all he did he…

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