Education and Resources

BYA's Family Education Committee provides a variety of programs designed to improve communication between parents and their children, help parents understand child development, and enhance their parenting skills. BYA often co-sponsors programs and speakers with other groups.

Keynote Presentations

Anthony Grupido: Magic of Hope

On the evening of January 23, 2025, Birmingham Youth Assistance (BYA) hosted a powerful and unforgettable community event featuring nationally recognized speaker and magician Anthony Grupido. Held at Groves High School Auditorium, the event brought together over 125 students, parents, educators, and community members to explore critical topics such as mental health, emotional resilience, coping strategies, and suicide prevention.

Blending magic, humor, and storytelling, Anthony captivated the audience with a message that was both deeply personal and universally relatable. He shared his own journey through mental health struggles and emphasized the importance of speaking up, seeking support, and showing compassion—for others and for ourselves.

Anthony’s presentation offered more than inspiration—it equipped attendees with practical tools to recognize the signs of emotional distress, foster open communication within families, and build mental and emotional resilience. His ability to connect with young people through interactive elements and candid honesty made the evening both engaging and impactful.

This event was made possible free of charge thanks to a generous grant from Oakland County Youth Assistance, along with the ongoing support of Birmingham Public Schools, who provided the venue and helped promote the program. Special thanks go to the Birmingham Bloomfield Community Coalition, who partnered with us for the event and hosted a resource table to raise awareness about substance use prevention.

In addition, school counselors were present onsite to answer questions and offer support following the keynote. Their presence underscored our collective commitment to youth wellness and provided a reassuring space for attendees seeking guidance.

While the weather presented some challenges that day, the impact of the evening was undeniable. One parent shared that her child, who was initially hesitant to attend, left saying, "I think this event saved lives tonight." That sentiment was echoed by many who recognized how deeply Anthony’s words resonated.

The “Magic of Hope” event was part of BYA’s broader Family Education initiative, which aims to strengthen families and empower youth through accessible, meaningful programming. We are proud to continue creating safe spaces where vital conversations around mental health and well-being can take place.

Watch the presentation here.

Additional Links & Resources

Early On Oakland Resource Guide (PDF)

Oakland County Youth Assistance Parenting Calendar (PDF)

Family Resources, Supports, and Aid Available in Oakland County (PDF)

Back to School Safety Tips (Link)