About The Austin Foundation
“We’re dedicated to empowering youth and young adults through holistic programs that meet their unique needs.”
Our Mission
Our mission is to provide educational resources, services, and programs that will innovate, empower, and engage the community for a brighter future.
Our Vision
Our vision is to eradicate the education barriers that impede excellence so that all individuals can participate in today’s modern society.
Our Values
We are committed to moving communities forward by these guiding standards:
Integrity, Respect, and Community.
Our Story
The legacy of The Austin Foundation began with the imparting of knowledge and valuable lessons instilled by Southwest Detroit pioneers William and Sandra Austin. The sincere gestures shown by the Austin’s sparked a movement of hope, sharing, and nurturing, and helping communities foster growth. Sandra and William Austin worked relentlessly to instill the unwavering values of kindness, compassion, and service.
Today, The Austin Foundation strives to honor their legacy by setting an example for future generations. Through educational enrichment, outreach initiatives, and community work, we aim to empower youth and young adults and shape our collective future.
Our Programs
As part of The Austin Foundation’s advocacy to give accessible and holistic educational opportunities to different communities.
Each program aims to enrich the lives of Detroit and Southeast Michigan’s promising youth, building a brighter future through digital literacy, interpersonal development, and skill enhancement.
Becoming Young Adults
We believe real growth happens both inside and outside of the classroom. Becoming Young Adults is our after-school program designed for high school students to gain the life skills, confidence, and mindset needed to thrive beyond graduation.
Through interactive workshops and real-world simulations, students build essential skills in financial literacy, mental health, communication, and personal development. The curriculum is built around four key pillars:
Financial Wellness
Mental Health & Wellness
General Life Skills
Interpersonal Skills
Becoming Young Adults helps students transition into adulthood with the knowledge and support to take charge of their futures.
NextGen | Digital Literacy
At The Austin Foundation, we believe digital literacy is essential for success in today’s connected world. NextGen is our digital literacy program designed to equip youth and young adults with the skills to navigate technology confidently, use online tools effectively, and thrive in both academic and professional environments. Offered in after-school and flexible formats, the program helps participants boost productivity, explore career pathways, and build confidence in a digital-first world.
Our curriculum is reaching beyond Michigan, with NextGen featured in Ontario’s Grade 7 to support lessons on digital citizenship.
Our Impact
At The Austin Foundation, we believe in equipping youth with the tools to build confident, successful futures. From life skills and coding to sports and wellness, we’re transforming the lives of Detroit’s young people through hands-on learning, mentorship, and opportunity.
Outreach and Growth by the Numbers
200+ youth served
Across Detroit and Southeast Michigan neighborhoods in education, tech, and sports since 2023.
98% felt more ready for adulthood
After participating in our Becoming Young Adults program.
Life skills matter
Student awareness of their importance rose from 68% to 75%.
Financial confidence grew
From 1 in 5 to 1 in 4 students feeling self-assured.
75% said “extremely helpful”
About our financial literacy workshops.
100% want more tournaments
Our sports events inspire leadership, pride, and connection.
10+ neighborhoods reached
From coding labs to basketball courts, we’re building futures across Southeast Michigan.
Our Team
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Cydney Hill
President & CEO
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Kevin Hill
Director of Community Engagement
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Austin Hill
Director of Partnerships
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Khristopher Hill
Director of Philanthropy
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Kristen Hill
Director of Operations
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Sheare Hill
Director of Communications
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Samhita Sarokonda
Data Analytics Intern
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Coy Catrett
Web Development Intern
A Special Thanks to Our Partners & Contributors
We at The Austin Foundation are deeply grateful to our partners and contributors. Their support is instrumental in our mission to supply youth and young adults with the educational resources required to innovate, empower, and engage, paving the way for a brighter future within the community.
Together, we are breaking down educational barriers and fostering a future of possibilities.
Their commitment helps us create impactful programs that make a real difference. We thank them for their continued support in our vision and contributions to our journey!
