Founded in 2006 by celebrated author and journalist Mitch Albom, SAY Detroit was born from Albom’s compassionate plea—after spending a night in a shelter—to ensure that care and support for the homeless extended beyond fleeting moments of attention from visitors. This effort evolved into a fully formed 501(c)(3) charity providing pathways to success for Detroiters facing hardship through education, healthcare, and housing initiatives.
Education: Building Brighter Futures
SAY Detroit invests in youth through several innovative programs. The SAY Play Center offers tutoring, athletics, music, robotics, and the arts in an after-school setting, fostering academic and personal growth. Better Together bridges trust between law enforcement and at-risk communities, while Dream Scholars provides four-year arts scholarships at the College for Creative Studies.
Healthcare: Accessible, Compassionate Care
Healthcare is another cornerstone. The SAY Detroit Family Health Clinic, among the nation’s first free medical clinics serving homeless mothers and children, provides essential services to thousands annually. Additionally, the Mi?Cycle program refurbishes bicycles and distributes them to those needing reliable transportation for school, work, or medical visits.
Housing: Creating Strong, Sustainable Communities
SAY Detroit supports housing stability through initiatives like Working Homes / Working Families, providing refurbished homes to working families, reinforcing neighborhood vitality. Programs like A Time to Help and A Hole in the Roof Foundation empower volunteers and faith groups to lend a hand—whether building playgrounds or repairing roofs for vulnerable families and community spaces.
Radiothon: The Lifeline of Support
Each December, the annual SAY Detroit Radiothon, hosted by Mitch Albom on WJR (760?AM), brings together compelling stories, celebrity guests, and community voices in a 15-hour live broadcast to raise funds for the nonprofit’s initiatives. Since its launch in 2012, the Radiothon has raised over $14 million, fueling transformative work across education, healthcare, and housing in Detroit.
SAY Detroit stands as a vibrant testament to Albom’s vision of constant care—ensuring that Detroiters in need receive sustained support throughout the year, not just for a moment.
