DETROIT – Winning Futures, which delivers an evidence-based, structured Workforce Prep program for students throughout metro Detroit, received an $18,000 check from Comerica Bank, part of a promotion it ran with the Detroit Lions for each first down the football team gained at Ford Field.

Winning Futures includes in-class mentoring, life skills development, goal setting, job readiness training, and career exploration. Comerica gave Winning Futures $100 for each first down recorded at home. 

Since 1994, Winning Futures has positively impacted approximately 49,000 students and awarded $1.9 million in scholarships. The nonprofit delivers an evidence-based, structured Workforce Prep program for students throughout metro Detroit, and with help from volunteer mentors and partnerships within the business community, Winning Futures transforms students into self-reliant, employable, and productive adults with defined academic and career goals, and highly desirable workforce skills.

“We congratulate Winning Futures and their team of committed volunteers for their success in providing transformative experiences for our young people.  The Winning Futures program connects students to mentors and other valuable resources that will help them be better prepared for the future.” said Michael Cheatham, Comerica Bank Vice President and Michigan External Affairs Market Manager. “We proudly support Kristina, Winning Futures, and all who share their time, talent and resources to inspire our youth.”

Comerica Bank donated $18,000 to Beyond Basics in 2018, and in 2017, gave an additional $18,000 to Children’s Hospital. With an additional $18,000 donation to Winning Futures this year, Comerica has donated $54,000 through the First Down Program to nonprofits in metro Detroit.

Winning Futures president and CEO Kristina Marshall said she is very thankful to benefit from this partnership between Comerica Bank and the Lions.

“The funds from the Detroit Lions First Down Program was a great, unexpected surprise this season,” Marshall said.  “As we roll out our expanded four-year program, the contribution will support students having hands-on career exploration experiences, developing their five-year education and career plans, and being matched with a career mentor. New this year, students are completing department rotations and projects at local corporations, along with participating in a job experience fair where they can test out careers that interested them.”

More information is available at WinningFutures.org.