
Thank You to Our #50Things Partners
We extend our gratitude to the incredible school districts, nonprofit organizations, and student-focused groups that have supported the #50Things Experience. Through workshops, seminars, events, and the purchase of books, you have helped us reach and empower young people in meaningful, lasting ways.
Your commitment to nurturing the unique intelligences and potential of your students inspires us. We are honored to partner with you on this journey of growth and discovery. Thank you for believing in the power of young minds. Together, we are creating spaces where every student feels seen, supported, and capable of greatness. And we’re just getting started, who’s next?
With appreciation to the following #50 Partners:
Southfield Public Schools –
University K-12 Academy & Birney Middle School
Detroit Public Schools Community District –
Local Authors Panel
Detroit Public Library –
Chaney Branch
Black Tech Saturday
St. Louis Public Schools
Romulus High School
Oak Park Schools –
Oak Park Preparatory Academy
Teach For America TeachMichigan –
EmpowerEd Weekend
Youth Development Resource Center –
Rooted in Care Summit
Oakland County African American Male Task Force
Threads For Success
Rhonda Walker Foundation
DBG (Downtown Boxing Gym)
Lake Orion High School –
Black Student Union
Cornerstone Schools –
Lincoln-King High School
FORCE Detroit
Operations School
Detroit Edison Public School Academy
Planting Seeds.
Building Futures.
From the page to the person—see how Gerrard connects, mentors, and inspires the next generation of Black leaders in real time.

"Ask for a passport instead of
a pair of Jordans for Christmas.
That passport will take you
way farther in life."
- Gerrard Allen

NEW Book Release
#50 Things For Black Teens to Experience Before Graduating High School
The #50 Things for Black Teens Experience is designed to remove barriers to success, equipping teens with essential skills to confidently navigate their high school journey. This book serves as a guide for tackling everyday challenges, allowing teens to focus their energy on growth and opportunity with greater ease.
Inside every teen is a unique genius waiting to emerge—but without foundational skills, that potential can stay hidden. With this guide, teens gain the tools to unlock their true selves, empowering them to thrive and make the most of their high school experience.
Purchase the book today to bring this transformative experience to your school or community and be part of empowering every Black teen.
Together, let’s build a future where every Black teen thrives.




#30 - Learn How to Interact During a Traffic Stop
9th Grader
College Grad Perspective
Priya MSU Grad, former student and #50 things advisor.
#26 - Navigate Your City Without GPS
9th Grader

MEET GERRARD:
THE EDPRENEUR
Gerrard "G." Allen is a seasoned educator, community leader, and Edpreneur with over 15 years of experience dedicated to empowering Black teens and promoting equity through education and community development. Holding a Masters degree in Education from the University of Michigan and a Bachelors degree in Communications from Eastern Michigan University, Gerrard has served in impactful roles such as Senior Lead English Teacher, Study Abroad Coordinator, College Advisor, and Dean of Culture in Detroit, Michigan. His global perspective, shaped by his work as a Foreign English Teacher in Beijing, China, enriches his ability to connect with diverse communities and inspire meaningful change.
Currently, Gerrard is the Director of Enrichment at DBG (Downtown Boxing Gym) and a University Supervisor at Wayne State University. Driven by his mission to empower Black teens, he creates real-world experiences that help youth embrace opportunities, overcome challenges, and build paths to success. As the co-founder of Centric Place, a hub for arts, culture, and entrepreneurship, and Founding Executive Director of Curators of Black Excellence 501c3,
Gerrard merges education and entrepreneurship to drive positive change. His work bridges social capital and leadership to inspire the next generation, equipping them with the tools to navigate life with purpose and resilience.
Mentorship that
Transforms Minds
Gerrard is more than an educator—he’s a dedicated mentor who guides Black teens to unlock their full potential. Through his mentorship, he empowers young people with the confidence, skills, and tools needed to navigate life's challenges and seize opportunities. Gerrard’s approach is rooted in understanding each teen’s unique strengths and providing practical guidance in areas like self-advocacy, leadership, and real-world problem-solving. His commitment goes beyond academics, helping teens explore career paths, develop meaningful connections, and build a foundation for lifelong success. With Gerrard as a mentor, teens don’t just learn—they grow, thrive, and discover their own genius.
What Teens are Saying
What Educators & Partners Are Saying
Mr. Allen captivated our students with his dynamic presentation, opening with a powerful spoken word poem before guiding them through interactive activities related to the book. Students enthusiastically participated, sharing personal goals and engaging in meaningful discussions. Thank you Mr.
Allen for pouring into our students.
University K-12 Academy
Gerrard, thank you so much for your support of our Threads for Success event this year. You knocked it out of the park with your presentation to our attendees. Keep up the great work!
Board Member, Threads for Success
“Mr. Allen’s visit left a lasting impression. The students were engaged, inspired, and asking when he could come back.”
Natasha McKenzie
English Teacher (AP Seminar & Pre-AP) University K-12 Academy
Mr. Gerrard Allen, a local author and motivational speaker, visited Mrs. McKenzie's class to present his book 50 Things for Black Teens to Experience Before Graduating High School. His visit was impactful and left a lasting impression on our students.
University K-12 Academy
I think the presentation was good and well organized and it gave advice and awareness about things to expect and experience in life and asked to share opinions on different topics on it. Overall I think it was a fun and interactive experience and I don’t think any changes are needed.
I think this was a great experience. I loved Mr. Allen’s introduction it was really nice. I would love to do something like this again.
I enjoyed this experience, and I think it helped some of us who may be adjusting to the high-school life. It also may help kids who will be going to the 9th grade next year. I also think that Mr. Allen should hold an assembly with the middle schoolers, because they can benefit from his book.
