Neway Works Inc. in Detroit, a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering inner-city youth through enrichment and mentoring programs, has announced a new community partnership with the Detroit Public Schools Community District, kicking off with Detroit Pershing High School, known as the Pershing Doughboys.
The collaboration is designed to support Pershing in its rebuilding efforts, including working directly with the school’s athletic programs to enhance opportunities for student-athletes both on and off the field.
With a $77 million investment, the Doughboys are bringing a state-of-the-art facility to life, scheduled for completion in 2027. The new school will offer modern classrooms and innovative learning spaces, along with cutting-edge athletic facilities designed to inspire and support the next generation of Detroit’s leaders.
Through the partnership, Neway Works will provide educational programming services, including tutoring, mentoring, financial literacy and entrepreneurship, career and college readiness, workforce development, scholarships, and athletic support to Pershing High School students.
The initiative aligns with Neway Works’ mission to empower inner-city youth by offering programs focused on breaking barriers toward whole life success.
“We are thrilled to collaborate with Detroit Pershing and DPSCD to create meaningful opportunities for students,” says Shane Gianino, founder of Neway Works. “By working with the basketball and football teams, we aim to not only strengthen their athletic programs but also provide guidance that extends beyond the game, ensuring students have pathways to success in education, career, and life.”
Pershing High School, a historically significant institution in Detroit, has produced numerous professional athletes and leaders, such as Spencer Haywood, Willie King, DeShawn Sims, Larry Foote, Glenn Doughty, Paul Seal, Lenny Green, Marvin Lane, and Ted Sizemore.
“This partnership with Neway Works is an exciting step forward for Pershing High School and our student-athletes,” says Bryant Tipton, principal of Pershing.
DeShawn Sims, a former University of Michigan basketball star and NBA player who is the Doughboys head varsity boys’ basketball coach, adds, “As an alumnus of Pershing, I know firsthand the impact that strong mentorship and community investment can have. We are committed to rebuilding and strengthening our programs, giving students the skills and opportunities they need to succeed on and off the court.”
The partnership will include an inclusive design process. Neway states it has engaged students, alumni, staff, and community members every step of the way. Together, they plan to reimagine Pershing High and continue to rebuild the Detroit Public Schools Community District.
Detroit Pershing is located on the city’s northeast side at 18875 Ryan Road, near Seven Mile and Ryan roads.
The vision of Neway Works, which has offices in Detroit and Mt. Clemens, is to help more DPSCD students in the city experience whole life success through its no cost wrap-around services.
To learn more about partnership opportunities or to support the program, visit newayworks.org/.
