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Fishing in the D Foundation
Empowering Detroit's youth through the timeless tradition of fishing—building life skills, community, and future opportunities one cast at a time.
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Our Story
Fishing in the D Foundation was born from a childhood tradition that began more than 30 years ago. When founder Duran Roberson was young, his Grandma Shirley Mae Roberson introduced him to fishing, creating summer memories that would shape his entire life.
Today, Duran continues this legacy by taking his own nine-year-old fishing every weekend, passing down the same traditions, stories, and love for the water that his grandmother shared with him. This generational connection to fishing inspired Duran to create Fishing in the D Foundation—a "people helping people" organization dedicated to welcoming anyone in Detroit who wants to learn, develop skills, and share knowledge.
More Than Just Fishing
Education
Our programs teach young people to set up their poles, identify local fish species, and understand the difference between native and invasive species in the Detroit River ecosystem. We connect youth with real-world learning that extends far beyond the classroom.
Career Pathways
We expose participants to exciting careers in conservation and fisheries biology by arranging opportunities to shadow biologists and park rangers. Students can discover scholarship programs that offer funding exceeding $15,000.
Life-Skills
Fishing offers physical exercise, mindfulness, and resilience. Time spent in nature builds self-esteem, reduces stress, and creates a powerful sense of community. The quiet moments of reflection and joyful memories from a successful catch provide lasting mental health benefits.
Our Mission
Fostering education, skill-building, and entrepreneurship among Detroit's children and families through the timeless practice of fishing.
The Fishing in the D Foundation is committed to introducing young Detroiters to conservation-based careers and fishing scholarships while building community around our city's beautiful waterways. Our programs are designed to teach kids not only how to fish, but also how to respect the environment and explore future career opportunities.
We believe that fishing is a gateway to developing crucial life skills, environmental stewardship, and meaningful connections to nature. Through hands-on experiences, mentorship, and community engagement, we're empowering the next generation of anglers, conservationists, and entrepreneurs—one cast at a time.
Youth Angler Corps (PLC)
Our flagship program connects Detroit youth with experienced mentors who provide comprehensive fishing education in a team environment. Participants progress from basic skills to advanced techniques while learning about local ecology and conservation practices.
Skills Development
Young anglers learn proper equipment setup, casting techniques, fish handling, and ethical fishing practices that will serve them for a lifetime.
Environmental Education
Team members study local fish species, habitat preservation, and the importance of clean water initiatives in maintaining healthy aquatic ecosystems.
Team Building
Through group outings and friendly competitions, participants develop communication skills, patience, and the ability to collaborate and support one another.
Entrepreneurship & Career Pathways
At Fishing in the D Foundation, we believe in creating pathways to sustainable futures. Our entrepreneurship track teaches participants how to convert fishing knowledge into business opportunities through innovative projects like worm farming and composting programs.
We also introduce youth to scholarship opportunities and career paths in:
  • Vermicomposting
  • Environmental conservation and policy
  • Outdoor Recreation Leadership
  • Sustainability Practices
  • Ecotourism and Guide Services
By connecting classroom learning with real-world applications, we're helping Detroit's youth cast their lines toward promising futures.
Community Impact
100+
Youth Served
Children and teens have participated in our fishing programs since our founding, gaining new skills and connections to nature.
3+
Community Events
Free fishing days, environmental cleanup activities, and family fishing derby's hosted throughout Detroit annually.
100%
Volunteer-Powered
Our foundation operates entirely through dedicated community volunteers and generous donor support.
Meet Our Team
Duran Roberson
Founder & Executive Director
Carrying forward his grandmother's legacy, Duran established Fishing in the D Foundation to share his lifelong passion for fishing with Detroit's youth. His background in community organizing, social justice, mentorship, workforce development, and outdoor education drive the foundation's mission and programming.
Our Board
Our diverse board includes conservationists, educators, community leaders, and fishing enthusiasts committed to expanding opportunities for Detroit youth through outdoor recreation and environmental stewardship.
Volunteer Mentors
Experienced anglers from across Metro Detroit donate their time and expertise to teach fishing skills, share local knowledge, and provide positive role models for program participants.
Community Partners
We collaborate with schools, community centers, conservation organizations, and local businesses to create comprehensive programming and expand our reach throughout Detroit.
Upcoming Events
1
Community Garden Compost Days
Join us for our first fall opening event on the Northwest side of Detroit. For a fun interactive day of learning gardening, composting, and vermicomposting. Free equipment provided for youth and seniors with disabilities, plus demonstrations and seed giveaway for the whole family.
2
Fishing in the D Youth Angler Club
1 weekend every month on Saturday we will meet throughout the year where participants ages 8-17 can develop fishing skills, learn knot tying, and build lasting friendships.
3
Detroit River & Park Cleanup
Help preserve our waterways while learning about environmental conservation. This family-friendly event combines community service with fishing education.
4
Fishing Derby September 27th, 2026
Our yearly competition celebrates the skills our anglers have developed throughout the season, with prizes and recognition for participants of all ages and ability levels.
Support Our Mission
Help Us Make a Difference
Fishing in the D Foundation operates entirely on community support. Your contribution directly impacts our ability to introduce more Detroit youth to the water, provide quality gear, support educational programs, and develop future scholarships.
Whether you donate funds, volunteer your time, or contribute fishing equipment, you're helping us nurture the next generation of anglers, conservationists, and entrepreneurs in Detroit.

Ways to Give
  • Financial donations via Zeffy, click link to give!
  • New or gently used fishing equipment
  • Volunteer as a fishing mentor or event assistant
  • Corporate sponsorships and matching gifts
  • In-kind services and professional expertise
Contact Us: [email protected] | (313) 763-7180
Follow Us: @_FishingInTheD on FB & IG