ESCOT Literacy Program Kicks Off Summer Reading

ESCOT Youth Development is excited to announce the launch of the ESCOT Literacy Program, a summer reading initiative in partnership with the William P. Faust Public Library of Westland. What started as an idea quickly became a full program that is already making a difference in our community.

ESCOT Literacy Program

The program kicked off on June 29 with sixteen participants ready to dive into their books. The model is simple and effective: students read for thirty minutes to earn one hour of screen time on our iPads. They also earn entries for additional gifts and prizes through the Westland Public Library. Readers can bring their own books, choose from titles donated by the library, or access reading apps directly on the iPad.

By day two, the momentum was undeniable. Doors opened at noon, and by 12:15 PM twelve students were already settled in with their books.

On day three, the program welcomed a very special guest group: officers from the Westland Police Department came out to read with our young ladies. Having community heroes spend time with our students shows them that representation matters and that local leaders are invested in their future.

One of the most touching moments came when Patrick was spotted reading to his little brother Lamont. It is exactly the kind of moment we hoped for when this program started.

This would not be possible without the help of Cari Fry, Joanne Campbell, Patti Ball, and DeLano Hornbuckle. Thank you for helping us get this program off the ground. Teamwork makes the dream work.

Get Involved

Want to help us turn more pages? Support the ESCOT Literacy Program by visiting our Donate page. Interested in volunteering your time? Check out our Volunteer page to see how you can help. If you want to enroll a student, visit our Contact Us page to get started.

ESCOT Appoints DeLano Hornbuckle as Director of Development

Originally released March 2, 2026.

ESCOT Youth Development is proud to announce the appointment of DeLano Hornbuckle as Director of Development.

DeLano Hornbuckle Director of Development

Hornbuckle will lead all development initiatives for ESCOT, including donor relations, marketing, social media, event planning, and strategic growth efforts to expand the organization's reach and impact.

Hornbuckle is the President of DH Solutions, an IT support and cybersecurity company, and a former Westland City Councilman. He brings proven leadership, deep community roots, and a passion for creating opportunities for at-risk youth.

"We are very excited about DeLano joining the ESCOT Youth Development program," said Jeff Styers, Founder of ESCOT. "His years of experience, expertise, and leadership are vital for us to continue to grow and serve more at-risk youth so they can build better futures."

About ESCOT Youth Development

ESCOT (Emanuel Steward Champions of Tomorrow) provides academic support, boxing, and life-skills programming for at-risk students. Our work is built around the Four Corners of Achievement: Academics, Athletics, Community, and Leadership.

Meet DeLano and the rest of the ESCOT team on our Team page!

Or support the growth he is leading by visiting our Donate page.

Interested in getting involved? Visit our Volunteer page to learn how you can help.

Summer Celebration Success

ESCOT (Emanuel Steward Champions of Tomorrow) is a nonprofit organization that empowers young individuals by providing them with transformative opportunities. Made possible through community partnerships, donations, and volunteers, ESCOT serves as a haven for youth to explore, learn, and grow. This summer, we gathered on July 7th to celebrate our inaugural summer camp and honor Emanuel Steward's birthday.

Empowering Youth through Community Partnerships

ESCOT's impact on young individuals is made possible through the steadfast support of the community. Local businesses, organizations, and individuals come together to form partnerships, offering resources, time, and expertise to create a safe and enriching environment for the youth, free of charge. These partnerships lay a strong foundation for the growth and development of ESCOT's young participants. Our summer celebration was sponsored by the Wilshire Benefits Group. THANK YOU from the ESCOT community!

Fostering Growth and Opportunities

Generous contributions from sponsors, both individuals and businesses, play a vital role in sustaining ESCOT and providing life-changing experiences for the youth. Through their financial support, sponsors actively contribute to unlocking the potential of young individuals, enabling them to thrive and pursue their dreams. Sponsorship is a powerful force that fuels ESCOT's mission of creating champions of tomorrow.

The Power of Community Gathering

ESCOT's summer celebration is a testament to the importance of community gathering. As attendees come together, they cultivate a sense of unity, camaraderie, and shared purpose. Engaging in exciting activities, heartfelt conversations, and laughter, they forge lasting connections that strengthen the fabric of the community. Community gathering at ESCOT embodies the spirit of togetherness and solidarity.

ESCOT (the Emanuel Steward Champions of Tomorrow) thrives on the Four Corners of Achievement [Academics, Athletics, Community, Leadership]. Through community partnerships, generous sponsorships, and heartfelt gatherings, ESCOT offers young individuals a chance to discover their potential and build a brighter future. As we come together this summer to celebrate at ESCOT, let us recognize the profound impact of community support and sponsorship in transforming the lives of our youth. Together, we create a joyous and empowering summer experience, fostering growth and inspiring the champions of tomorrow.

DONATE TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE TODAY

To learn more about ESCOT and its mission, visit ESCOT.org.