When Metro Detroit Youth Day was formed in 1981, we had 1,100 youngsters who were supervised by about 100 volunteers.  We had a few games, races, a football clinic, and a couple of celebrities join us.  In 2008, we had 34,000 youngsters (ages 8-15) who attended Metro Detroit Youth Day and they were supervised by 1,200 volunteers from various organizations and corporations.

Today we have nearly 300 organizations that participate in this colorful event which is the largest youth event in the State of Michigan.  As always, it is held on the athletic field of Belle Isle with the beautiful freighters going by and the wonderful breezes of the Detroit River. We have clinics in football, basketball, baseball, track, golf, tennis, martial arts, boxing, weightlifting, bowling . . . and  an impressive entertainment schedule which performs on the Pepsi Stage.  We even have a Youth Day Idol Contest where the winners receive nice prizes.

In addition to the Point of Light Award we received from President George H.W. Bush and the Points of Light Foundation in 1991 and the Governor’s Youth Fitness Award as the best and largest  youth event in the State of Michigan, we have received numerous accolades and honors for bringing together youth for an exciting day away from home during the summertime.  For many, it is the only day away from home they have to enjoy being kids.

In the middle of the day, lunch is served by the food industry of Michigan companies and members of Michigan Food and Beverage Association.

Since 1991, we have given more than 650 college scholarships to high school graduating seniors and awarded numerous honors to students in high school for academic achievement and community service.

Metro Detroit Youth Day has become an important tradition in southeastern Michigan.  Our committee and participating organizations are proud to present this wonderful event which literally takes a full year in the planning stage.  Thank you for your support and your cooperation.