Grenae Dudley’s impressive career in the nonprofit sector has spanned over 25 years, where she has played various leadership roles. Currently serving as the President and CEO of The Youth Connection, a Detroit-based organization, Dudley has dedicated her career to empowering young people and promoting positive change. Her extensive experience and commitment have made her a highly respected and accomplished leader in the field, recognized for her invaluable contributions to the organization and the broader community. Through her work at The Youth Connection, Dudley has been instrumental in providing critical resources and opportunities to underserved youth in the Detroit area, demonstrating her passion for youth development and community engagement.

Dudley’s impressive career in nonprofit management began in the early 1990s when she worked with the United Way of Southeastern Michigan. During her tenure, she played an instrumental role in developing the organization’s youth initiatives, demonstrating her passion for youth development and community engagement. In 2001, Dudley joined The Youth Connection, where she quickly rose through the ranks to become the organization’s president and CEO in 2007.

Under Dudley’s leadership, The Youth Connection has continued to expand its reach and impact in the Detroit community. The organization’s programs provide vital resources and support to thousands of youth each year, including after-school and summer programs, job training and placement, mental health services, and more. Dudley’s commitment to meeting the needs of young people in underserved communities has earned her numerous accolades and awards throughout her career, including the Crain’s Detroit Business Nonprofit CEO of the Year award in 2016.

Dudley’s leadership has also helped The Youth Connection forge strong partnerships with local businesses, government agencies, and community organizations, enabling the organization to leverage its resources and achieve greater impact. In addition to her work with The Youth Connection, Dudley serves on the boards of several nonprofit organizations, including the Michigan Nonprofit Association and the Skillman Foundation.

Grenae Dudley’s decades-long career in nonprofit management and commitment to empowering young people in underserved communities has made her a respected leader in the sector. Her leadership at The Youth Connection has enabled the organization to expand its reach and impact in the Detroit community, providing vital resources and support to thousands of youth each year. As Dudley continues to lead the organization forward, her dedication to youth development and community engagement will undoubtedly continue to inspire positive change for years to come.