History of the

Hope for the City – Southfield Foundation

The Hope for the City – Southfield Foundation is a newly established nonprofit, created with a vision to inspire unity, foster collaboration, and build lasting connections across both Southfield and the greater Metro Detroit area. Recognizing the need for a strong foundation that can serve as an incubator for engagement, the founding board came together in 2025 to create an organization dedicated to uplifting residents and amplifying community voices.

While young in years, the Foundation is deeply rooted in the shared values of commitment, service, and hope. Its mission is to bridge gaps between individuals, organizations, and neighborhoods—providing opportunities for collaboration, community-wide networking, and sustainable support.

The Foundation was born out of a desire to create a hub where ideas, resources, and people can come together to address local challenges and celebrate successes. By building strong partnerships with schools, faith-based groups, civic leaders, and businesses, the Foundation is laying the groundwork for impactful programs that will strengthen Southfield and the broader Metro Detroit region.

As the organization grows, it remains guided by its founding vision: to become a trusted partner in shaping a healthier, more connected, and more vibrant community—one filled with opportunities, equity, and hope for all.

A winding mountain road in autumn with trees on both sides and mountains in the background, viewed from inside a vehicle on a rainy day.

John Michrina - Chairman

Sunday Jaiyesimi

Sunrise over a mountain lake with a reflection of a forested hillside and snow-capped peaks in the water.

Pastor B Kevin Smalls

Executive Board

The Executive Board at Hope 4 Southfield drives innovation and strategic growth, ensuring our mission to empower and uplift the Southfield community is met with excellence and forward-thinking solutions. Comprised of visionary leaders with diverse expertise, the board sets priorities that enhance our programs, expand outreach, and foster sustainable partnerships. Their commitment to transparency, accountability, and inclusive leadership propels Hope 4 Southfield into a future where every individual can thrive.

Sunrise over a mountain lake with a reflection of a forested hillside and snow-capped peaks in the water.

Rev. Esrom Shaw-Vice Chairman

Snow-covered mountains with sharp peaks in the background, a layer of fog or snow in the foreground, and a soft pink sky.

Dr. Tony Lyons

Jasmine Patton

Sunrise over a mountain lake with a reflection of a forested hillside and snow-capped peaks in the water.
A winding mountain road in autumn with trees on both sides and mountains in the background, viewed from inside a vehicle on a rainy day.
Snow-capped mountain peaks during sunset with orange light highlighting at the tops.

Charles Harris

Sherman Larkins- Treasurer

Red desert landscape with rocky formations and sparse desert shrubs under a clear blue sky

James Jackson

Aerial view of river channels and barren landscape with dark mountains.
Red desert landscape with rocky formations and sparse desert shrubs under a clear blue sky

Cherryl Thames

Aerial view of river channels and barren landscape with dark mountains.

Scan. Share. Support Hope

Help us grow our mission by sharing our QR Code with friends, family, and colleagues. A simple scan connects people directly to Hope 4 the City – Southfield Foundation, making it easier for youth, volunteers, and partners to join our movement. Every share brings more hope to our community!

Sunrise over a mountain lake with a reflection of a forested hillside and snow-capped peaks in the water.
Snow-capped mountain peaks during sunset with orange light highlighting at the tops.
Aerial view of river channels and barren landscape with dark mountains.

Gwendolyn Powell

Sunset over a frozen lake with rocks and pine trees in a mountainous landscape

Sara Webb- Secretary

Melissa Medici

Dr. Jennifer Martin-Green

Dr. Patricia A. Talley

Aerial view of river channels and barren landscape with dark mountains.

Darryl Jacobs-Executive Director