Loyola High School of Detroit Work Experience Program

At The First Nation Group Foundation, we believe in creating pathways that strengthen individuals and communities for the long term. Through our continued support of the Loyola High School of Detroit Work Experience Program (LWEP), we are proud to help shape student success beyond the classroom and open doors to future opportunity.

For nearly a decade, First Nation Group has supported student scholars, connecting them with hands-on placements that foster professional skills and personal confidence. Over the past two years, The First Nation Group Foundation has continued this commitment. This year, we are honored to support three students as they contribute to the missions of Chandler Park Conservancy, Dominican Literacy Center, and Foundation for Pops.

Bridging Learning with Purpose

The Loyola Work Experience Program is intentionally designed to prepare students for life beyond graduation – giving them exposure to professional environments, mentorship, and career pathways while still in school. According to LWEP Director, Kimberly Jenkins, the program plays a critical role in shaping students’ futures.

“The Loyola Work Experience Program (LWEP) is designed to bridge classroom learning with real-world experience by placing students in professional work environments. Through these opportunities, students gain valuable insight into various career fields, develop essential workplace skills, and build meaningful connections with mentors and professionals.”

Through nonprofit placements in particular, students are also introduced to something deeper – an understanding of service, empathy, and community impact. These experiences align closely with Loyola’s mission to form “Men for Others. Men for Detroit,” while reinforcing the importance of giving back.

The long-term impact of LWEP is evident in the success stories it creates – like a recent Loyola graduate who turned his internship experience into a full-time career, demonstrating how early exposure can shape future pathways. For current students, the experience is just as transformative. Tyler Etter-Glynn, who is completing his placement with Foundation for Pops, shared:

Loyola High School Work Experience Program

“Working at Foundation for Pops truly feels like being part of a family. Everyone is so welcoming, and the environment feels like home. Ms. Lakesha, the ‘Top Honcho,’ is someone I deeply admire – she shows me that my dream of becoming an entrepreneur is possible. She even bought me a laptop to support my studies, which I’m incredibly grateful for, and her leadership inspires me every day. I enjoy my role because it gives me a sense of purpose, knowing I’m helping others in need of housing makes me feel like I’m making a difference. Whether I’m organizing for a client’s party, cleaning the office, or greeting visitors, I take pride in contributing to the mission.”

Tyler Etter-Glynn

Loyola High School of Detroit Work Experience Program Student

The Power of Partnership

Our nonprofit partners play an essential role in bringing this experience to life. By welcoming students into their organizations, they provide mentorship, guidance, and meaningful, hands-on opportunities while supporting essential work across the Detroit community.

From supporting environmental stewardship at Chandler Park Conservancy, to advancing adult education at Dominican Literacy Center, to contributing to housing and community support at Foundation for Pops, each placement offers students the chance to make a tangible difference while discovering their own passions and potential. See this impact in action in the video to the right.

Through our Education key impact area, The First Nation Group Foundation proudly supports programs like the Loyola Work Experience Program that expand access to opportunity, build real-world skills, and strengthen community organizations – helping young people develop confidence, purpose, and pathways for future success.

We are incredibly proud to continue supporting the Loyola Work Experience Program and the nonprofit partners who make these experiences possible. By investing in students today, we are helping to shape compassionate leaders, skilled professionals, and engaged community members for tomorrow – #TOGETHERSTRONG, for the greater good.