Who We Are

The Konnection is a Detroit-based mentoring program designed to encourage and empower youth to improve school performance and attendance. The Konnection partners with middle and high schools in underserved communities to provide resources including basic needs, enriching after-school programs, mentoring, field trips, career exploration, and travel opportunities. Our goal is to keep students excited about learning and engaged in school. Through The Konnection, youth are equipped with the knowledge, leadership skills, experience, and confidence to succeed in every area of life in any environment across the world.

Our Why

With chronic absenteeism on the rise, Detroit leads the nation.  Student chronic absenteeism is directly linked to poor academic performance. Citywide, across district and charter schools, about half of the students are chronically absent — meaning they’re missing at least 10% or more days during the school year.  Within Detroit Public Schools Community School District, more than half of all students are deemed chronically absent. In response to chronic absenteeism concerns, we have a significant focus on increasing attendance by providing mentors, resources, incentives and exciting youth programming. Studies show that students with mentors are more likely to stay engaged in school resulting in higher academic performance, more likely to graduate from high school and less likely to use drugs.

Our Mission

Inspiring youth to broaden their horizons through positive relationships and healthy connections. 

Konnection Klosets

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Resource closets providing hygiene items, non-perishable foods, school supplies, and underclothes for students throughout the school year.

Konnection Klubs

After-school program providing mentoring, academic enrichment, and career exploration for middle school students.

Konnection Kudos

A public acknowledgment celebration and exciting out-of-the classroom adventure for students with the highest class attendance.

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