Empowerment Path Foundation addresses the measurable challenges facing single-parent households—higher rates of poverty, housing instability, and limited access to coordinated support—through trauma-informed programming, life skills education, and community-based mentorship designed to promote sustainable self-sufficiency.
Comprehensive support including life skills workshops, entrepreneur development, agriculture education, resource access, housing initiatives, and technical production training.
LEARN MOREJoin our movement! Volunteer your time and talents, make a financial contribution, become a corporate partner, donate in-kind goods, or host a fundraising event.
LEARN MOREYour donation directly supports families in crisis, funds educational programs, provides housing assistance, and builds sustainable pathways to self-sufficiency.
LEARN MOREEvery donation makes a direct impact. Your generosity helps us provide trauma-informed support, life skills education, housing assistance, and economic empowerment opportunities for families in Detroit who need them most.
Give TodayEmpowerment Path Foundation operates under the fiscal sponsorship of Bringing Back the Block, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization (EIN: 83-4245282). This partnership ensures full compliance with federal regulations and oversight, while allowing us to focus our mission on serving families.
Whether you want to volunteer, donate, partner with us, or simply learn more about our work—we'd love to hear from you.
Empowerment Path Foundation was established in response to the measurable challenges facing single-parent households, including higher rates of poverty, housing instability, trauma exposure, and limited access to coordinated support services. As a single parent who personally navigated abuse recovery, financial hardship, and unstable housing, I experienced firsthand the gaps that research continues to document.
Single mothers and fathers are disproportionately affected by economic insecurity while also carrying primary caregiving responsibilities, making long-term stability difficult without targeted intervention.
Empowerment Path Foundation addresses these disparities through trauma-informed programming, life skills education, housing and employment navigation, and community-based mentorship designed to promote sustainable self-sufficiency. Our approach focuses on prevention as well as recovery—reducing crisis recurrence, strengthening family stability, and improving long-term outcomes for children.
By aligning lived experience with evidence-based support strategies, we aim to interrupt cycles of hardship and create measurable pathways toward economic mobility, family wellness, and generational stability within underserved communities.
Empowerment Path Foundation was founded by Tina N. Bowden-Hayes, whose personal journey through adversity and triumph shaped a deep commitment to supporting others facing similar challenges. Understanding firsthand the gaps in available resources for single parents, the systemic barriers to housing stability, and the transformative power of education and mentorship, Tina launched EPF in Detroit with a singular vision: create a movement of empowerment.
What began as a grassroots initiative has grown into a comprehensive support network serving the Detroit community. Through strategic partnerships, community engagement, and the dedication of board members, volunteers, and supporters, EPF continues to expand its reach and deepen its impact. Today, we serve as a bridge between aspiration and achievement for families determined to overcome adversity.
With each program launched and each family served, we're building the infrastructure necessary to create lasting change. Our success is measured not just in the services we provide, but in the stories of transformation—parents completing education programs, families finding stable housing, children thriving in environments of stability and opportunity.
We envision a Detroit where every parent—regardless of circumstance—has access to quality housing, educational opportunities, life skills training, and economic empowerment resources. We see families breaking cycles of poverty and adversity. We see children growing up with educated, stable, empowered parents who can model resilience, independence, and possibility.
Our long-term vision includes expanding our programs to reach more families, establishing permanent community gardens and agricultural education centers, growing our technical production training initiative as a pipeline to creative industry careers, and deepening our partnerships to create a safety net of resources that truly addresses the full scope of family needs.
We don't just serve individual families—we work to shift the systems and policies that perpetuate inequity. Through advocacy, community partnerships, and model programs, we're demonstrating that sustainable change is possible when we invest in people with the tools, knowledge, and support they need to thrive.
Our Board of Directors brings diverse expertise, lived experience, and unwavering commitment to our mission.
Tina N. Bowden-Hayes is the visionary founder and president of Empowerment Path Foundation. Drawing from her own lived experience navigating adversity and overcoming systemic barriers, Tina brings both personal insight and professional leadership to her role. With a background in nonprofit program development and community advocacy, she has spent over a decade working to bridge gaps in resources for underserved populations. Tina's leadership is grounded in compassion, equity, and an unwavering belief in the potential of every family. As founder, she has been instrumental in establishing EPF's comprehensive program portfolio and building strategic partnerships that extend the foundation's reach and impact across Detroit.
Erica D. Hill is a lighting designer and production manager with extensive experience in entertainment, corporate events, and educational programming. Her creative background and production expertise have been invaluable in developing EPF's Technical Production Training program, which prepares participants for careers in lighting, audio, and production management. Erica is passionate about bridging creative industries with community empowerment and believes that technical skills training opens doors to stable, well-paying careers for underrepresented populations. She actively mentors participants in the program and serves as a strategic advisor on educational curriculum development.
Emory Reeves serves as President of Empowerment Path Foundation, bringing dedicated leadership and a deep commitment to community empowerment. With a strong background in organizational development and community engagement, Emory plays a central role in guiding EPF's strategic direction, strengthening partnerships, and ensuring the organization's programs deliver measurable impact for the families we serve. His leadership is instrumental in advancing EPF's mission to create sustainable pathways toward economic mobility and family stability in Detroit.
Michelle Wheeler serves as Vice President of Empowerment Path Foundation, providing essential leadership in program oversight, community outreach, and organizational growth. Michelle is deeply committed to supporting families navigating adversity and brings valuable experience in advocacy, resource coordination, and stakeholder engagement. Her collaborative approach and passion for family empowerment strengthen EPF's ability to serve single parents with comprehensive, trauma-informed support that promotes lasting self-sufficiency and generational stability.
Empowerment Path Foundation offers a comprehensive range of evidence-based, trauma-informed programs designed to address the interconnected challenges facing single-parent households. From life skills education to housing assistance to economic empowerment, we provide the integrated support necessary for sustainable self-sufficiency.
Interactive workshops covering budgeting, time management, stress management, healthy relationships, conflict resolution, and parenting skills. Our trauma-informed approach creates safe spaces for learning and growth.
Learn More →Support for aspiring entrepreneurs including business plan development, financial literacy, marketing strategies, and access to micro-lending resources. We help participants turn their ideas into sustainable income sources.
Learn More →Hands-on training in urban gardening, sustainable food production, and agricultural entrepreneurship. Participants develop valuable skills while improving food security and creating potential income opportunities.
Learn More →Centralized navigation to critical services including housing assistance, emergency financial support, childcare resources, healthcare navigation, and job placement services. We connect families to the support they need.
Learn More →A groundbreaking partnership with Bringing Back the Block providing affordable housing solutions and community support. This program combines housing stability with mentorship and economic development opportunities.
Learn More →Career pathway training in lighting design, audio engineering, event production, and technical support. Developed by industry professionals, this program opens doors to well-paying creative industry careers.
Learn More →Our Life Skills & Wellness Workshops address the core competencies that support long-term stability and well-being. Recognizing that financial hardship and housing instability create chronic stress and trauma, we provide interactive, practical training in skills that make lasting change possible.
All workshops are delivered in a trauma-informed, culturally responsive manner. We recognize that many participants have experienced trauma and create safe, inclusive spaces where learning can occur. Facilitators are trained in de-escalation, responsive communication, and strengths-based approaches.
Participants develop concrete skills they can immediately apply to their lives. We measure success through skill mastery, behavioral change, improved financial stability, and participant feedback. Many workshop graduates go on to mentor others, creating ripples of change throughout our community.
Economic empowerment is central to breaking cycles of poverty. Our Entrepreneur Development Program supports individuals with the knowledge, networks, and resources to launch and grow sustainable businesses—whether as their primary income source or as a pathway to greater financial independence.
Our entrepreneurs launch ventures ranging from home-based services to retail operations to creative freelance businesses. We've supported participants in starting cleaning services, childcare operations, craft businesses, consulting firms, and much more. The program combines structured training with personalized mentorship, connecting participants with experienced business professionals who serve as advisors.
For many single parents, entrepreneurship offers flexibility and autonomy unavailable in traditional employment. Our program recognizes this unique value and designs support accordingly, helping entrepreneurs navigate the challenges specific to single-parent business ownership.
Food insecurity is a significant challenge for low-income families. Our Agriculture & Gardening Education program addresses this while building valuable skills and creating economic opportunities through urban agriculture and sustainable food production.
Participants learn to grow nutritious food, reducing grocery expenses and improving family nutrition. Beyond food production, gardening provides therapeutic benefits, builds community connections, and develops entrepreneurial skills. Some participants continue on to launch small agricultural businesses or community gardens, creating ongoing income and food security.
We're working to establish permanent community gardens and agricultural education centers throughout Detroit. These spaces will serve as learning hubs, food sources, and places of community gathering and healing.
Navigating the fragmented landscape of social services, housing programs, financial assistance, and health resources can be overwhelming. Our Resource Access Hub serves as a centralized point of connection, helping families identify, access, and navigate the support they need.
Our trained case managers work one-on-one with families to assess needs, identify relevant resources, and provide ongoing support as they navigate systems. We remove barriers to access by providing transportation, advocacy, and follow-up support.
Many low-income families don't know what resources exist or feel intimidated by application processes. We bridge those gaps, ensuring families get connected to the support that addresses their unique challenges.
Housing instability is one of the most pressing challenges facing single-parent households. The Duplex Initiative, developed in partnership with Bringing Back the Block, provides an innovative solution that combines affordable housing with comprehensive support services and economic development opportunities.
Through this initiative, families gain access to high-quality, affordable housing in Detroit neighborhoods. Participants receive:
Our partnership with Bringing Back the Block—a 501(c)(3) nonprofit with deep roots in Detroit communities—ensures that housing solutions are integrated with community revitalization efforts. The Duplex Initiative is not just about housing; it's about building stable communities where families and neighborhoods can thrive together.
When families have stable housing, everything else becomes possible. Children stay in school, parents can work consistently, health improves, and long-term stability becomes achievable. The Duplex Initiative addresses housing instability at its root while creating pathways to ongoing economic security.
Detroit has a vibrant creative industry with well-paying technical careers that often go unfilled. Our Technical Production Training program, developed by industry professionals, prepares participants for careers in lighting design, audio engineering, event production, and technical support—opening doors to careers paying $40,000-$70,000+ annually.
Our program is developed and taught by working professionals in the creative industry. Participants gain hands-on experience with industry-standard equipment, build relationships with professionals, and access internship and employment opportunities through our partner network.
Many of our participants transition directly into paid positions with event venues, production companies, and creative organizations. The program is designed for rapid entry into well-paying careers, making it an ideal fit for single parents seeking economic independence and career growth.
As Detroit's creative industry continues to grow, we're building a pipeline of talented, trained professionals from our community. This program represents our commitment to ensuring economic opportunity is accessible to all Detroiters.
Empowerment Path Foundation's impact depends on a community of supporters—volunteers, donors, partners, and advocates who believe in our mission. Whether you have time, resources, connections, or passion, there are many ways to get involved.
Our volunteers are the heart of EPF. Whether you have professional expertise, specific skills, or simply a desire to make a difference, we have volunteer roles that match your abilities and interests.
Lead life skills workshops on budgeting, parenting, communication, or other topics. We provide training and materials; you share your expertise and passion.
Build one-on-one relationships with program participants. Provide guidance, support, and encouragement as they work toward their goals.
Help aspiring entrepreneurs develop business plans, understand finances, and navigate startup challenges. Share your business experience with emerging entrepreneurs.
Develop and maintain community gardens, teach gardening techniques, and help participants build food security and entrepreneurial skills.
Teach lighting, audio, video, or other technical production skills. Share industry knowledge and help participants launch creative careers.
Support our case management team by helping with intake, follow-up, resource research, and participant support services.
Help with scheduling, data entry, event planning, communications, and other administrative tasks that keep our organization running smoothly.
Support our fundraising events, workshops, and community celebrations. Help with setup, registration, catering, and guest coordination.
Help tell our story! Create social media content, write impact stories, design graphics, and help us communicate our mission to the community.
Contribute your professional expertise as needed—accounting, legal services, marketing, HR, technology, fundraising, and more.
Contact us at EmpowermentPathFoundation@gmail.com or call (313) 937-6077 to learn more about volunteer opportunities and get started today.
Your donation directly supports families in crisis, funds educational programs, provides housing assistance, and builds sustainable pathways to self-sufficiency. Every contribution—regardless of size—makes a measurable difference.
Provides a family with emergency groceries or household supplies
Covers one-on-one mentorship or case management session
Funds a full workshop series or job training materials
Provides one month of technical training classes
Covers partial rent assistance for a family in crisis
Provides complete life skills workshop series for 10+ people
Creates lasting change through sustained program support
Online: Make a secure donation through our Give Butter page. 100% of your donation goes directly to supporting families.
Mail: Checks can be sent to Empowerment Path Foundation, Detroit, Michigan
Contact us directly: EmpowermentPathFoundation@gmail.com or (313) 937-6077
As a program of Bringing Back the Block (501(c)(3), EIN: 83-4245282), all donations are tax-deductible. We maintain the highest standards of financial accountability and transparency. View our financial documents here.
We partner with businesses and community organizations that share our commitment to empowering families and creating positive change in Detroit. Whether through financial support, in-kind donations, employee volunteering, or strategic collaboration, corporate partners play a vital role in our mission.
Companies and organizations that partner with EPF gain:
If your organization would like to explore partnership opportunities, we'd love to hear from you. Contact us at EmpowermentPathFoundation@gmail.com or (313) 937-6077.
Your donations of goods and services directly support the families and programs we serve. We're grateful for contributions of the following items:
Contact us to arrange pickup or drop-off of in-kind donations. Please reach out to EmpowermentPathFoundation@gmail.com or call (313) 937-6077 to discuss your donation and logistics.
Periodically, we launch special in-kind donation drives for specific community needs. Follow us on social media or sign up for our newsletter to learn about current urgent needs.
Want to host a fundraising event to support EPF? We love working with community members, businesses, and organizations to raise awareness and funds for our mission. Here are some ideas—or bring your own!
EPF staff can assist with:
Contact us at EmpowermentPathFoundation@gmail.com or call (313) 937-6077 to discuss your fundraising event idea. We'll provide guidance, materials, and support to make your event successful!
Empowerment Path Foundation operates with the highest standards of financial integrity and transparency. We are committed to using every dollar donated to create maximum impact for the families we serve.
Empowerment Path Foundation operates as a program of Bringing Back the Block, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization located in Detroit, Michigan.
Using a fiscal sponsor allows us to operate with full 501(c)(3) nonprofit status and compliance oversight while maintaining focus on our mission. All donations made to Empowerment Path Foundation are tax-deductible and handled through Bringing Back the Block's accounting and financial systems.
We maintain comprehensive financial policies including:
We file annual Form 990-N with the IRS and provide detailed financial reporting to our board and stakeholders. All financial documents are available upon request. View our financial documents here.
If you have questions about our financial practices or would like documentation of our financial accountability, please contact us at EmpowermentPathFoundation@gmail.com.
We believe in complete transparency regarding our finances and operations. Below are key documents demonstrating our financial accountability and responsible stewardship of donor contributions.
Annual tax filing with the IRS. Available for the most recent fiscal year. Contact us to request.
Comprehensive annual financial audit conducted by independent auditors. Demonstrates full financial accountability.
Detailed overview of programs, impact, and financial performance for the past fiscal year.
Information about our fiscal sponsor, Bringing Back the Block, and the fiscal sponsorship agreement.
To request any of these documents, please contact us at:
Email: EmpowermentPathFoundation@gmail.com
Phone: (313) 937-6077
EPF is registered with Charity Navigator and GuideStar, independent charity evaluation services. These organizations provide additional accountability and transparency verification.
Empowerment Path Foundation operates under comprehensive governance policies ensuring ethical practice, legal compliance, and responsible stewardship. Below are descriptions of our key policies:
Ensures board members, staff, and volunteers disclose potential conflicts of interest and abstain from decisions where conflicts exist. Protects organizational integrity.
Provides safe channels for reporting concerns about misconduct, illegal activity, or policy violations. Protects reporters from retaliation.
Establishes standards for maintaining and preserving organizational records, financial documents, and operational files.
Defines guidelines for accepting donations, ensuring all gifts align with organizational values and are properly documented.
Establishes expectations for ethical conduct by board, staff, and volunteers. Emphasizes integrity, respect, and accountability.
Commits EPF to serving all individuals regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or other protected status.
Protects confidentiality of participant information and establishes data security and privacy standards.
Foundational governance document outlining board structure, responsibilities, meeting requirements, and operational procedures.
To request copies of specific governance policies, please contact us at EmpowermentPathFoundation@gmail.com or call (313) 937-6077.
We'd love to hear from you! Whether you have questions, want to get involved, or need support services, please reach out.
Empowerment Path Foundation
Detroit, Michigan
Phone:
(313) 937-6077
Email:
EmpowermentPathFoundation@gmail.com