OUR STORY
Mission
The Old Newsboys’ Goodfellow Fund of Detroit includes 300 members whose sole mission is to ensure that there is No Kiddie Without a Christmas. Each holiday season, the Detroit Goodfellows distribute holiday gift boxes to children ages 4 through 13 living in Detroit, Highland Park, River Rouge, Hamtramck, Harper Woods and Ecorse. Each child receives warm clothing, socks, underwear, toys, books, games, a dental kit and more.
History
The Old Newsboys’ Goodfellow Fund of Detroit was founded in 1914 by James J. Brady and is not affiliated with any other Goodfellows organization. There is no national headquarters.
OUR STAFF
The Detroit Goodfellows have one full-time and one part-time employee.
Rick Pacynksi
President 2024-2026
Jordan Mulka
Executive Director
Board of Directors
The Detroit Goodfellows is led by a Board of Directors of 18 dedicated individuals who have long served the organization as members, donors and advisers. Board Members
Becoming a Member
Members are the lifeblood of the Detroit Goodfellows, and we’re always on the lookout to grow our roster of charitable-minded givers. All new members must be sponsored by a current Detroit Goodfellow, and the Board of Directors must also approve new members. Along with annual dues, members are asked to assist with package distribution, write fundraising letters or send fundraising emails, attend and support events and activities, and serve on a committee.
NextGen Goodfellows
Become part of the next generation of Detroit Goodfellows members making a difference for so many deserving children. NextGen Detroit Goodfellows are ages 18–29. The membership fee is $10 annually along with a 10-hour commitment of volunteer service to the organization. The 10 volunteer hours can be completed in many ways: package distribution, outreach at community events, selling special-edition newspapers on Sales Day, walking in the Thanksgiving Day Parade, dressing dolls, assembling dental kits, writing letters, social media support and much more.
Become part of an organization that believes in the power of giving and make sure no child is forgotten at Christmas. Email jordan@detroitgoodfellows.org to become a NextGen member and for more information.
Frequently Asked Questions
What cities do you serve?
Detroit, Highland Park, Hamtramck, Ecorse, Redford, River Rouge and Harper Woods.
How do I apply for Detroit Goodfellows packages?
Fill out the application found HERE.
What if I do not live in one of your service cities and I am still looking for holiday help for my family?
Please try the United Way or the Detroit Public Library’s TIP Line. Links to these resources are HERE.
I would like to volunteer or become a Detroit Goodfellows member; how do I do this?
You can contact our director, Jordan Mulka at jordan@detroitgoodfellows.org regarding volunteer opportunities. Our membership criteria and an application are available higher up on this page.
I would like to send a check to the Detroit Goodfellows – where do I mail it?
Detroit Goodfellows, PO Box 44444, Detroit, MI 48244. You may also donate via our secure web site by clicking on the Donate button.
What ages do you serve?
We serve children ages 4 through 13. Your child must be between the ages 4 and 13 on Christmas Day to qualify for our program.
What is the procedure once I apply?
You will receive some correspondence from us via email or text to confirm your interest each September. You will receive a second communication from us in early December with instructions on picking up the packages for your children and the ID that is required to do so.
What other services do you provide?
You can find more detail on our other programs (shoe, dental, campership and scholarship) on the our Home Page under the “More than Holiday Magic” section.
I would like to dress a doll; how do I do this?
Please visit the Volunteer Page for more information.
I would like to discuss making a special gift to the Detroit Goodfellows. Who should I contact?
Please contact Jordan Mulka at 248.752.3387 or via email at jordan@detroitgoodfellows.org.