FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 17, 2023
The Detroit Association of Black Organizations announces plans for its new building, bringing more educational opportunities to Detroiters
Detroit – The Detroit Association of Black Organizations (DABO) has opened its doors to the Dr. LaVonne M. Sheffield Bridge Center Library. At a press conference Friday, they cut the ribbon to the new building and announced two new partnerships bringing more educational opportunities to Detroiters.
DABO joined forces with Wayne County Community College District (WCCCD) in providing adult education to those 18 years or older. Students will have access to the Bridge Center Library, where experienced WCCCD instructional staff are on hand assisting learners as they enhance their foundational literacy skills and make progress toward obtaining a GED. The adult education program is scheduled to launch in the fall.
“DABO having run alternative schools and adult education programs in Detroit, we are pleased to be a part of an approach that couples adult education with vocational certifications and hopefully a college education,” said Ron Lockett, DABO President.
DABO also partnered with Saint Augustine’s University (SAU) in Raleigh, North Carolina to bring its third HBCU Access Hub to Detroit. The new HBCU Urban Access Hub is offering students from Detroit the chance to attend a historically black college without leaving the comfort of their homes.
“HBCUs are the world’s most experienced and capable engines for equity in all professions, including public health,” said SAU President Dr. Christine Johnson McPhail. “This agreement positions SAU to expand its reputation for providing more students in Detroit, especially Black students, with a transformational college experience that results in their upward mobility.”
The new satellite office is located in DABO’S new building, Dr. LaVonne M. Sheffield Bridge Center at 9928 Grand River Ave in Detroit. Starting in April the site will offer access to a master’s in public administration, and the university’s continuing education and workforce development certificate programs.
“The fact that SAU had a historic black hospital sets the pace and is an example for how we train community health workers,” said DABO’s Executive Director, Rev. Horace Sheffield, III. “This partnership will make our city’s residents effective and place them in institutions and organizations doing the kind of work that will change our health landscape.”
DABO will assist in recruiting student participants in the Metro Detroit area and monitor their engagement. It will also provide partial scholarships to the first eight students who apply to SAU’s MPA program for the 2023-2024 school year. To inquire about a scholarship please visit dabodetroitinc.com/sau. To learn more about WCCCD’s adult education program, please call 313-496-2600.
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About the Detroit Association of Black Organizations
Established in 1979, the Detroit Association of Black Organizations (DABO) has been a champion for greater unity and opportunities in Detroit’s African American community. Through an expansive network of over 130 organizations, DABO strives to create meaningful resources aimed at improving quality-of-life initiatives around the city. For more information on how this organization is inspiring progress through connection and collaboration visit dabodetroitinc.com!