Tay Ford

WORK HISTORY

EDUCATION

ABOUT TAY FORD

I\'m Tay Ford, currently serving as the DEI Program Coordinator of Thriving Futures at Ruth Ellis Center, an impactful education and employment pathway program dedicated to LGBTQ+ youth aged 18-30 in Metro Detroit. Within this role, I spearhead initiatives to empower and uplift the LGBTQ+ community, fostering a supportive environment for personal and professional growth. Thriving Futures not only serves as an education and employment program but also acts as a catalyst for diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts within the Ruth Ellis Center. As a DEI advocate, we are actively involved in training workforce partners to better understand and support the unique identities and experiences of LGBTQ+ employees. As a dedicated Mental Health and Community Advocate, I\'ve devoted my career to fostering Team Member Engagement, Leadership, Diversity/Inclusion, and Community Advocacy. Holding a Limited License Professional Counselor qualification and a Master\'s in Counseling from Central Michigan University, I bring a wealth of experience in project management, team member development, and community engagement. Certified in Diversity and Inclusion from eCornell, Cornell University, I actively contribute to the American Counseling Association and volunteer for the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Michigan Chapter. In December 2020, I launched Manifest Thirty-One, a Mental Health and Wellness platform. My mission is to create an inclusive space where individuals can access resources and vital information for mental health and wellness. Complementing this initiative is my ongoing commitment to community advocacy through my nonprofit, A Village of Wings, dedicated to supporting Youth, Parents, and Elders. Let\'s connect and collaborate to make a positive impact on mental health and well-being!