Our Mission
To enhance the lives of children and youth by providing enrichment activities through education, arts, recreation, entertainment, and culture, conveying happiness through learning in a nurturing environment.
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Why We Exist
Weslyn A. Bennett Foundation was established to honor the legacy of a beloved community educator who loved children and gave them positive and meaningful experiences that they remembered and cherished for a lifetime.
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Signature Events
Kick Start Reading
Reading month is highlighted each March with themed events encouraging children to read. Authors read and autograph their books for the children that attend.
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Juneteenth Celebration
The Juneteenth holiday is celebrated by music from a local children's choir, youth dancers, and an educational historical experience for children and their families.
Kids and Cooking
Guest chef gives instruction to create children friendly food dishes following recipes that teach measurement and cooking techniques.
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April K. Garrett
President
Holding a certificate in Nonprofit Management from Schoolcraft College as well as a Professional Development Certificate from Yale University Child Study Center. Her passion is providing enrichment and exposure opportunities for children in her local communities and has served in leadership positions for more than 30 years. In addition, she holds Bachelor of General Studies degree from the University of Michigan – Ann Arbor and Master of Science degree in General Administration from Central Michigan University. She retired from the Auto Club Group after 40 years of service. She grew up in Inkster and is the granddaughter of Weslyn A. Bennett.
Kesha M. Daniels
Vice-President
Served as Vice-President of Housing Operations of Presbyterian Villages of Michigan holding a Bachelor of Business Administration in Finance from Davenport University. As a former resident of Inkster, she knows the needs of the community. She has served on other Boards and volunteers with other community organizations in the city.
Board of Directors
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Glynis M. Akridge-Peterson
Secretary
Serving as Secretary of the Board. She has 30 years of experience in customer service meeting the needs of children, adults, and disabled residents. She received her Bachelor of Arts degree in Business Administration from the University of Phoenix. Currently employed as a Manager in the Wayne County Vital Records Division, her attention to detail gives precise records of Foundation actions. A lifelong resident of Inkster and granddaughter of Mrs. Bennett. She is dedicated to the Foundation mission.
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Craig G. Peterson, Jr.
Treasurer
With a Bachelor of Science degree in Finance from Central Michigan University, he serves as Foundation Treasurer. Craig has experience with the city of Inkster as a Financial Analyst and is Accounts Payable Supervisor for RPM Freight Systems.
Leonard S. Akridge
Director
One of our most important Board Members as he was one of Weslyn A. Bennett’s students as well as her grandson. His perspective on her lifestyle as a teacher and relative are invaluable, as are his knowledge of Inkster. He has been employed by Wayne County Road Commission and Amazon and has participated in community events as a supporter and volunteer.
Darryl A. Walker
Director
A Mental Health professional receiving his Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from the University of Michigan-Ann Arbor. He has extensive community volunteer experience and has chaperoned youth field trips for Inkster children. He is a United States Navy Veteran.
Gloriane Hymon Wiley
Director
Previously served as Interim Executive Director of Friendship House, Family Services Director of Habitat for Humanity and Service Specialist for FEMA. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Economics from the University of Michigan – Ann Arbor and a Master of Science in Management degree from Walsh College. She has volunteered assisting with children’s programs in Inkster since 1996.
Timothy Williams
Director
He’s served three terms on the Inkster City Council, one of those terms as Mayor Pro Tem. He is a community activist, volunteer, and dedicated Inkster resident. Timothy retired from St. Joseph Mercy Hospital after several years of employment. He is former President of the Leanna Hicks Public Library of Inkster. He was also one of Mrs. Bennett’s students.
Felicia Benson
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Shawn E. Blanks
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Chanel Cabbil
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Mary E. Moss
Advisory Board
Our Testimonials
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