Join us in building a legacy that will uplift children and families for generations.
At The Children’s Center, we believe every child deserves more than a moment of help—they deserve a future. That’s why we are honored to share this special endowment initiative: to create lasting, reliable support for children and families across Detroit and beyond.
You may already know the impact your gifts have today—through trauma-informed care, foster support, and family-centered services. This endowment is how we make that impact last for generations.
Thanks to the Michigan Central Station Children’s Endowment Initiative, we’ve already received $500,000! Now, every dollar raised will be matched, up to another $500,000, through 2026. Together, we can build a $1.5 million endowment that ensures children always have access to the care and support they need.
With your support, we can ensure that every child has the chance to shape a stronger, more hopeful future.
The Future Is Worth Investing In
Legacy in Action
Results from the 2024 Fiscal year
- 5,637 families accessed basic needs support
- 3,399 meals served through our pantry
- 2,244 children received trauma-informed therapy
- 1,686 children received holiday gifts
- 800+ children attended enrichment events
- 82% of children aged 7-17 no longer had serious mental health concerns after receiving services
- 37+ children were adopted and found their forever homes*
*from October 2024 through July 2025
The Power of Endowments
- Expand Access – More kids receiving trauma-informed therapy
- Strengthen Innovation & Quality – Drive system change through data and partnerships
- Ensure Stability – Protect services through economic uncertainty
313 Day: Invest in Detroit’s Future
On March 13, we celebrate Detroit. This year, we are turning pride into permanent support for children and families across the 313.
What is 313 Day at The Children’s Center?
For nearly 100 years, The Children’s Center has supported children and families across Detroit through foster care, adoption, behavioral health services, and community engagement.
This 313 Day, we are working to raise $500,000 toward our permanent endowment. Thanks to the Michigan Central Station Children’s Endowment Initiative, launched by The Children’s Foundation of Michigan, every dollar raised will be matched 1 to 1 through the end of 2026.
That means your gift today is doubled and helps build a $1.5 million permanent fund that will support Detroit’s children for generations.
Detroit pride is not just something we celebrate. It is something we invest in.
Why it Matters
Too many children in Detroit experience trauma, instability, and limited access to care. Early support changes everything.
This endowment ensures that children can access mental health services, family support, and stability not just this year, but every year.
When we invest in children, we invest in Detroit’s future.
How You Can Participate
Option 1: Make a Gift
Your donation today is matched dollar for dollar.
All gifts support the endowment and will generate annual funding for children and families.
Option 2: Start a Crowdfunding Page
Be a 313 Day Champion.
Create your own fundraising page and invite friends, family, or coworkers to give. Whether your goal is $313 or $3,130, every dollar helps unlock matching funds and builds permanent support for Detroit’s kids.
Option 3: Bid in the Auction
Bid on premium experiences and items, with all proceeds supporting the 313 Day endowment effort.
Auction items include a Suite (24 tickets) at Ford Field for the August 29 Ed Sheeran concert and a $10,000 RH retail credit, redeemable online or in-store.
The auction will be live from March 1st through March 13th.
Your gift to the endowment helps ensure that children and families have access to healing, stability, and support—now and for generations to come.
Every dollar you give will be matched, up to $500,000 through 2026, building a $1.5 million endowment for lasting impact.
Join the Legacy. Shape the Future.
Frequently Asked Questions
Have more questions about the Michigan Central Station Children’s Endowment Initiative?
Explore some common answers below—or connect directly with our Philanthropy team at Philanthropy@thechildrenscenter.com.
What is an endowment?
An endowment is a meaningful and lasting way to support The Children’s Center—today and for generations to come. When you give to our endowment, your gift is carefully invested, and only a portion of the investment earnings is used each year to support our mission. This ensures that the original gift remains intact, growing over time and providing a steady, reliable source of funding. Thoughtful spending policies guide how these funds are used, allowing us to plan for the future with confidence and continue empowering children and families for years to come.
Why do endowments matter?
Your gift today creates change forever.
When you contribute to our endowment, you’re doing more than giving—you’re investing in a future where help never runs out. Your support becomes a permanent source of strength for the children and families we serve.
You give stability in uncertain times.
Because of donors like you, we can respond to needs as they arise—with the confidence and flexibility to act quickly and wisely. Endowment giving helps us weather challenges and seize opportunities without delay.
You become part of something bigger.
Endowment donors are visionaries. Your generosity reflects a deep belief in our mission—and a desire to ensure it continues for generations. Together, we can build a future where no child is left behind.
How much will The Children's Center receive from the endowment each year?
How will support from The Michigan Central Station Children's Endowment Initiative be used?
When you give to The Children’s Center endowment, your gift is invested, and each year, a portion of the earnings is used to support the programs, services, and innovations that help children and families thrive.
Can I include a gift to the endowment in my estate plans?
Absolutely! Many people choose to make a current gift to the Endowment now while also including TCC in their Will or Estate Plans. Both options provide a lasting legacy of support for children and families.
Why should I give to the endowment versus my annual gift?
Both types of gifts are vital. Annual gifts support immediate needs, while endowment gifts ensure long-term sustainability. An endowment gift is a way to leave a legacy—providing a steady source of support year after year for children and families in need.
How can I learn more about the how the Children's Foundation started this initiative?
You can learn more about this initiative from the Children’s Foundation by clicking here.
