Courtney is no stranger to doing the boots on the ground work. She has spent many years as a coordinator, educator, and mentor with national and local nonprofit organizations; distinguishing herself as an industry leader and champion for youth.She is the Founder & CEO of Detroit Phoenix Center (DPC). Detroit Phoenix Center is a high impact nonprofit organization that provides critical resources and a safe, nurturing environment for youth experiencing homelessness. Under her visionary leadership, Detroit Phoenix Center opened the first and only drop in facility meeting the emergent needs of teens and young adults in crisis in Detroit, launched a scholarship fund, and tripled their operating budget to expand their programs and services to get more youth off the street. Her commitment to professional excellence, advocacy and service has led her to be featured in USA Today, Michigan Chronicle, Rolling Out Magazine, Mic, NPR and many other media outlets.Courtney has appeared on the Katie Couric Show and Michigan Entrepreneur TV. She is a double-time recipient of the Spirit of Detroit Award from the Detroit City Council, a recipient of the Women of Excellence Award from the Women’s Resource Center and Trailblazer Award from Alternative for Girls. She was recently dubbed an "All-Star in Detroit" by award winning journalist, Ann Marie LaFlamme. She is a sought after speaker and facilitator on topics related to: youth and community development, advocacy and servant leadership. Her unique and practical engagement style has landed her speaking engagements overseas and conducting leadership workshops for Fortune 500 Companies and Big Ten Universities. Courtney received a bachelor’s degree in Sociology from Eastern Michigan University, and is currently pursuing a master’s degree in Organizational Leadership and Entrepreneurship from the Colangelo College of Business. Contact Courtney: csmith@detroitphoenixcenter.org