Since its inception in 1997, the Detroit Hispanic Development Corp. has been serving more than 5,000 adults and youth a year in an effort to better its community through language, anti-violence, and educational programs. Educational opportunities are available for adults that are seeking a GED, looking to develop financial literacy, or learn English as a second language. DHDC provides access to counselors certified by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development Department so that Hispanic families in its community can properly weigh their housing options and ultimately pick the right home for them. Programs for youth and young adults also are available. The Urban Arts Academy allows youth to develop artistic skills, the Youth Ambassador Scholarship program provides up to $3,000 in college assistance, and the DHDC is also home to the Robotics and Engineering Center of Detroit to allow youth to harness engineering skills while overcoming social obstacles. Family services such as Padres Unidos emphasize the importance of family communication and parent involvement as part of its 12-session program. Additionally, in an effort to end violence, DHDC’s Gang Retirement and Continuing Education and Employment program (GRACE) was formed after creating a truce between rival gangs and encouraging “retirement” in exchange for jobs at local Hispanic-owned companies. A tattoo removal program also has been started to give former gang members and prisoners the chance to erase their past from their body and further move on in their lives.
