
Detroit, MI (September 13, 2025) On Saturday, September 13, 2025, the Rhonda Walker Foundation (RWF) will host its highly anticipated 22nd Annual Back to School Success Sessions at MacDowell Preparatory Academy, 4201 W. Outer Dr., from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The event brings together over 100 RWF girls in 4th -12th grades and their parents for a day of interactive workshops, engaging activities, and valuable resources that equip them with the confidence and tools they need to excel this school year.
The day’s agenda:
10:00 am – Welcome
10:15 am – Mental Wellness Workshops
12:00 pm – Lunch Compliments of Happy’s Pizza
1:00 pm – Tutoring/Test Prep/College Essay Bootcamp Workshops
1:30 pm – Backpack/School Supply and Sneaker Giveaway with Lace Up Detroit (4th -7th grades)
2:30 pm – Backpack/School Supply and Sneaker Giveaway with Lace Up Detroit (8th -12th grades)
As part of RWF’s College Prep and Educational programming, the event will feature:
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Tutoring workshops led by EnAct Your Future
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SAT test prep opportunities hosted by Exam Experts
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A college essay writing bootcamp for seniors, led by Nspire Classrooms, to prepare for college application season
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Mental wellness workshops to support the social-emotional needs of students with Essential Matters, LLC
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Specialized sessions for parents to help them guide and support their girls throughout the school year with Michigan Alliance for Families and Caleb’s Kids.
In addition to these resources, beginning at 1:30 pm, we will close the day with exciting giveaways, including backpacks, school supplies, and in partnership with Lace UP Detroit, every youth will receive brand new sneakers, ensuring that each girl steps into the school year with confidence and pride.
To fuel the day’s activities, a complimentary lunch will be provided by Happy’s Pizza, a proud partner in supporting RWF teens and families.
“Starting the school year with focus, confidence, and the right resources is so important for our teens and their families,” said Erycka Hunter, CEO of the Rhonda Walker Foundation. “The Back to School Success Sessions ensure that our girls not only have access to academic support like tutoring, test prep, and essay writing workshops, but also the mental wellness tools and family engagement opportunities that set them up for long-term success. At RWF, we are committed to building future leaders by making sure they are supported every step of the way.”
Rhonda Walker, Founder and President of the Rhonda Walker Foundation, added: “We are deeply grateful to our generous partners, including Happy’s Pizza and Lace Up Detroit, whose support ensures our girls are fully equipped for the entire school year. From nutritious meals to brand-new sneakers, these investments reflect our community’s belief in our mission and in the bright futures of our RWF girls.”
The Back to School Success Sessions mark the continuation of RWF’s mission to empower inner-city girls in Detroit toward becoming strong, confident, successful leaders through education, mentorship, and community engagement.
For additional information about the Rhonda Walker Foundation, please contact Holly A. Murphy, Senior Marketing and Communications Director at hmurphy@
About RWF
The Rhonda Walker Foundation (RWF) is a non-profit organization dedicated to empowering inner-city teen girls in Detroit, Michigan. We offer a comprehensive program that combines academic support, college preparation, career exploration, and personal development to equip young girls with the tools, resources, and opportunities they need to excel. Through our award-winning five-year program, we strive to instill in our girls a strong sense of self-worth, leadership skills, and a commitment to community service.
We rely on the generosity of donors, sponsors, and volunteers to continue making a difference. For more information, please visit www.rhondawalkerfoundation.org




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