courtesy of Joique Bell
Born in Benton Harbor, “Detroit Made” former NFL running back for the Detroit Lions Joique Bell is taking his commitment to the city’s youth to the next level this summer, launching a five-week academic and athletic enrichment program designed to empower middle school students through a mix of STEAM learning, sports, mentorship, and real-world career exposure.
Set to run from June 23 through July 29 at Wayne State University, the alma mater of Joique Bell, the Joique Bell Charity Summer Enrichment Program is completely free and open to rising 6th through 9th-grade students in the Detroit area. Developed in partnership with Inspirational Learning, Curry Motorsports, and I Am My City, the initiative offers a robust and holistic approach to summer programming at a time when many youth risk falling behind.
The initiative is powered by the Joique Bell Charity, a nonprofit organization founded by former Detroit Lions running back Joique Bell. The charity focuses on empowering Michigan’s youth through a combination of education, mentorship, and access to opportunities. Year-round, the organization supports initiatives across health, education, and community enrichment, with an emphasis on uplifting inner-city youth and closing opportunity gaps.
“Detroit has given so much to me, from my education to my football career to the values I live by today,” Bell said.
“This program is my way of giving back to the city and its youth. I want every child in Detroit to know that their dreams matter, their talents matter, and their future is worth investing in.”
At the heart of the program is an ambitious blend of academic instruction and enrichment opportunities. Students will receive daily lessons in math and literacy, taught by certified educators, along with hands-on exploration of fields like artificial intelligence, digital media, marketing, and motorsports. Physical activity is also a key component, with options like flag football, dance, and team games rounding out each day.
But beyond academics and athletics, the program seeks to build confidence, community, and a vision for the future. Daily leadership panels will connect students with local role models and visit celebrity guests, while field trips and career spotlights, called “Power Hours,” will introduce a new professional pathway each day.
Don-Q Patterson, CEO of Inspirational Learning and the program’s director, highlighted that this is not just a camp but a catalyst for the youth.
“By integrating mentorship, academic tutoring, and career exploration, we’re ensuring that Detroit youth stay excited about their futures and equipped to pursue them,” Patterson said.
Organizers say the middle school years are a critical window for intervention. Students at this age often begin to disengage from science and math, especially during unstructured summers, making programs like this one essential for keeping them on track. The curriculum was designed to reignite curiosity, nurture talent, and surround students with encouragement and opportunity.
Julius Curry, founder of Curry Motorsports and a longtime advocate for Detroit youth, saw a chance to inspire through his own industry.
“When Joique shared his vision, I saw an opportunity to bring something extraordinary to life,” Curry said.
“Motorsports is just one example of the doors we can open for young people. This program gives them the keys to dream bigger, explore more, and believe in what’s possible.”
The experience will culminate in a graduation-style celebration, where students will receive certificates of completion, recognize their achievements, and share highlights of their summer experience. Participants will also receive free breakfast and lunch, branded gear, and access to transportation assistance for families in need.
Students enrolled in the Joique Bell Charity Summer Enrichment Program will receive free breakfast and lunch daily, along with branded gear to create a sense of pride and belonging. In addition to academic instruction and enrichment activities, students will gain access to exclusive guest sessions and curated field trips, offering meaningful exposure to new environments and career possibilities. For families with transportation barriers, support will be provided to ensure accessibility, and all instruction will be led by certified educators and trained professionals committed to student growth.
The five-week program will conclude with a closing ceremony on July 29, honoring students with certificates of completion and celebrating their hard work and growth. Organizers hope this pilot marks the beginning of a broader, long-term effort. With plans already in motion to expand the program in the coming years, Bell and his partners are building what they see as a sustainable pathway for youth empowerment across Detroit.
Enrollment is open now, but space is limited to 200 students. Families interested in registering or applying for staff roles can visit the following links:
Register students by visiting: https://www.currymotorsports.com/new-page-1
Apply to be a teacher or aide by visting: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSed6zPrJYYgnGKiQEgdAuX68lHdarHy3t2MaFty4srpfwXrJA/viewform
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