As Detroit welcomes a new mayor in 2026, the city has a unique opportunity to put children and families at the center of the city’s future. This strategic brief outlines five key partnership opportunities between city government, schools and community organizations to strengthen neighborhoods and retain families.

From activating public spaces and coordinating essential services through trusted anchor institutions, to building cradle-to-career pathways and advocating for state policies that lift families into the middle class, these practical strategies demonstrate how Detroit can become a city that truly puts its children first.