DETROIT – A night of celebration in downtown Detroit raised money to help hundreds of students build pathways to college and careers.
The nonprofit Midnight Golf Program hosted its annual gala Thursday (April 30) at The Hudson, bringing together supporters, students, and community leaders for a fundraiser focused on education, mentorship, and opportunity.
Organizers said proceeds from the event directly support high school students with mentoring, tutoring, and career training.
The program also includes golf instruction as a tool for teaching discipline, networking, and life skills.
Each year, Midnight Golf serves about 250 students selected from more than 2,000 applicants, according to organizers.
Actor, Detroit native, and University of Michigan alumnus David Alan Grier served as emcee for the evening, using humor and personal reflection to highlight the program’s mission.
“I will admit that I don’t golf, but I’m here to help benefit some young people, go to college, and change their lives,” Grier said.
Grier said he was drawn to the organization’s focus on exposing students to new opportunities and professional guidance.
“If you see it, go for it. If you want it, let’s try to get it,” Grier said. “Stand up, get out there and get involved.”
Grier said programs like Midnight Golf help fill a gap by connecting students with mentors who can guide them through education and career decisions.
“When I was their age, I wanted that attention and guidance and knowledge from people who were professionals in the field I wanted to go into,” Grier said.
Beyond the fundraiser, Grier also spoke briefly about his television work and his pride in returning to Detroit for community events.
“I love the company of actors I’m with and working with them,” Grier said.
The event underscored Midnight Golf’s broader mission of preparing students for life after high school through a combination of academic support, career readiness, and personal development.