Two Working Tirelessly To Give Local Kids A Brighter Future

DETROIT (WWJ) - "Education is our biggest challenge," said Detroiter Brian Olatunji.  At age 29, Olatunji is celebrating his 15th season behind the wheel as a race car driver and is also the head of the "Lead Foot Foundation."

He told WWJ Newsradio 950 the foundation is "dedicated to empowering young people through mentorship and education initiatives."

"In fact," he said,"we have our marquee event that is fast approaching on Belle Isle on September 17." That event will feature a backpack giveaway.

Learn more at www.leadfootfoundation.org.

Dara Munson is President and CEO of Big Brothers/Big Sisters of Metro Detroit.

"Children that have mentors from age 7 through when they graduate from high school perform better in school," said Munson.

The mentoring system has proven successful because, she said, "kids are less likely to be truant and less likely to use drugs -- two things, she calls the "gateway to violent situations and the juvenile justice system."

"We have a tried and true solution ... when a caring adult shows up in that kids life every day and every week, it makes a difference," Munson said.

In addition, Munson said, they are always looking for volunteers because and there are currently about 7500 young boys looking for mentors. For more information visit www.bbbsdetroit.org.