State of Detroit Families: Detroit Parent Network Interviews Tonya Allen

*Content provided by our sponsor, Michigan Education Savings Plan. 

By Sharlonda Buckman, CEO, Detroit Parent Network

When you think about what makes a city livable, what comes to mind first? Is it great neighborhoods where your children can play? Or is it an excellent school system that promises to prepare students for bright tomorrows?

Every family has their own requirements and dreams, but there are a few things that we think of as our basic minimum standard for a high quality place to raise our children. Recently I spoke with Skillman Foundation President and CEO Tonya Allen. Tonya is a visionary leader who has been a champion for children and families at Skillman and in earlier roles. Fun fact: Tonya was one of the founders of Detroit Parent Network!

I asked Tonya what challenges exist for families in Detroit that might not be present in other places. "Lack of access and opportunity through transportation, education and housing which creates a lack of hope [for families] that they can create different lives for them and their children," said Tonya. "Even when you play by the rules, many families still can't get ahead."

What helped Tonya get ahead? "My family was strong because my mother was dogged about her children being safe and educated. She didn't have those basic constructs herself as she was growing up so she knew these two things were life-changing." Tonya added that her mother was very protective and unwavering on these issues.