Educate Youth

Gail Wolkoff is a dedicated teacher educator, former school administrator, and passionate advocate for youth education. With over 35 years of experience in the field, Gail resigned from classroom teaching and school administration in May 2010 to pursue her long-held desire to develop an educational program that connects youth with the world while fostering a love of learning. Throughout her career, Gail has consistently practiced anti-racist and positive teaching, where the relationship between teaching and learning is central to her approach.

In Fall 2011, Gail founded Dedicated to Make a Change, L3C (DTMAC), aorganization focused on empowering youth. In January 2017, she expanded her mission with the creation of Educate Youth 501(c)(3), with the goal of increasing the high school graduation rate in the 48197-48198 zip code and ensuring each student has a post-high school plan. All youth programs and classes from DTMAC were transitioned to Educate Youth.

Gail’s academic background includes studies in Earth Science and Social Work at The Evergreen State College and a Master of Arts in Teaching from the University of Pittsburgh. She continues to work passionately to create educational opportunities that foster personal growth, social equity, and community impact.

Justin Carthage began his journey at Educate Youth during his 8th grade year, he moved through the program by becoming a mentor, a tutor and a board member, and ever since then he has remained with us as both a tutor and mentor for our students. He has assisted many of our students acquire their high school diplomas. He currently attends Wayne State where he is pursuing a PhD in Behavioral and Cognitive Neuroscience, after earning his Bachelors in Neuroscience in 2022.

Bonita began her journey in May of 2023 as a volunteer. She loves working with youth, and helping them grow. This is why she quickly accepted the full time position as a Youth Advocate with Educate Youth. Bonita is the mother of a high schooler, and understands that kids need a safe space and people to turn to. She is very passionate about mental health, and showing how important it is to prioritize self care. She loves art, writing and reading, all of which bring her peace in hectic times. Bonita loves advocating for the youth, their mind, and well being, and enjoys discussing the importance of finding inner peace in such a crazy world with our students