About Us

Empowering Children and Families in Michigan

Breaking Barriers for Kids & Families is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering children and families in Wayne and Oakland Counties. Our mission is to provide essential support and educational opportunities to those facing economic hardship, particularly families qualifying under Title One or ALICE. Through our food pantries, STEAM learning labs, and greenhouse initiatives, we address critical needs while fostering education and sustainability. As part of our commitment to inclusivity, we integrate differently abled students into our programs, creating a diverse and supportive learning environment that strengthens our community.

Our Humble Beginnings

Our journey began as a grassroots initiative, aiming to supply local students and their families with essential daily necessities crucial for learning and growth. Recognizing the impact of basic needs on academic and social success, we initially collaborated with local teachers to identify and fulfill these needs. This initiative has since evolved into a year-round program, extending support beyond the school calendar.

Our Impact Across Wayne & Oakland Counties

At Breaking Barriers MI, we are deeply committed to fostering positive change in the lives of children and families throughout Wayne and Oakland Counties. Our mission takes us across various communities, where we strive to make a substantial difference through our targeted initiatives.

Board Leadership & Governance

Veronica Cruz

Executive Director

Ann Owen

Vice President

Cheryl Doelker

Treasurer

Jane Muszynski

Secretary

Chuck Dardas
Operations Advisor
Provides guidance on operational strategy, logistics, and program execution. Supports large-scale initiatives such as mobile distributions and operational planning to ensure efficiency and sustainability.
Eric Ladwig
Governance Lead
Oversees board governance, compliance, and best practices. Leads board development, policy review, and ensures alignment with bylaws and fiduciary responsibilities.
Kellie Whitlock
Community Partnerships Lead
Strengthens relationships with community organizations, schools, and local partners. Supports outreach efforts and ensures programs align with community needs.
Ed Buison
Marketing & Communications Lead
Guides branding, messaging, and marketing strategy. Supports visibility, storytelling, and promotion of programs and fundraising initiatives.
Eileen Buison
Marketing & Communications Co-Lead
Supports content development, outreach campaigns, and community-facing communications to increase awareness and engagement.
Vanessa Zverotic
Student Services & Disabilities Lead
Provides expertise on services for students with disabilities. Supports program accessibility, inclusion, and alignment for individuals with disabilities.
Maegan Sprow
Student Services & Inclusion Lead
Supports program development and outcomes related to education, inclusion, and support for individuals with disabilities across age groups.

Breaking Barriers MI Mission

Our mission is to support our community by providing families and students with supplemental food, clothing, and resources. We offer career education and skill-building opportunities through STEAM-based learning and job readiness programs. Importantly, we involve moderately cognitively impaired high school students in our food pantry operations.

View Outreach Programs

Our Impactful Program

We currently serve over 500 families, impacting approximately 2,500 adults and children, through our six food pantries. Since December 2015, we have proudly partnered with Gleaners as an approved food associate. Our reach has expanded to 16 schools within the Emerson triad, focusing on families eligible for Title One support.

Thank You to Our 2025 Supporters

We couldn’t do the work that we do without your support. Your donations allow us to provide quality care and services to our community.

Premier Sponsors
Biggby
Supporting Sponsors
PeopleDriven Credit Union
Tiseo

Help Assist Our Community

All donations made to Breaking Barriers MI directly support six food pantries that help meet the needs of community members. As a 501(c)(3) organization, all donations are tax-deductible.
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