The Children’s Center is pleased to announce the addition of David Sanchez as Senior Director of External Relations & Advocacy. With a proven track record in advocacy, government relations, and community engagement, Sanchez is set to lead strategic initiatives enhancing the outreach and impact of the Children’s Center.
The Children’s Center is one of Michigan’s largest child well-being agencies, providing for the mental health, socio-emotional, and child welfare needs of nearly 3,500 children annually.
In his new role, Sanchez will oversee the strategic direction for the agency’s external presence, communication efforts, and advocacy strategies, promoting broad-based support for programs and objectives. Nicole Wells Stallworth, President and CEO of The Children’s Center, expressed her enthusiasm about the role: “David’s extensive experience in advocacy, government, and community relations will be a tremendous asset to our agency and the families we serve. We are excited to welcome him to our team.”
A lifelong Detroiter, David’s commitment to advocacy and community organizing is deeply rooted in his upbringing in Southwest Detroit. Reflecting on his connection to the community, Sanchez explained, “My advocacy is driven by my love for the people of our community. I know that we can achieve even greater things with an adequate amount of support. I am committed to advocacy and leveraging every resource to empower families from my own neighborhood and throughout southeast Michigan.
Sanchez brings a range of experience to The Children’s Center. His career began at the Detroit Hispanic Development Corporation, focusing on community engagement and partnerships. Most recently, as Director of Government Relations for Planned Parenthood of Michigan, he led efforts in policy agenda development, official communications, and advocacy strategies. His background also includes leadership roles with state and federal legislators, as well as grassroots organizing with Michigan United and SEIU Local 1, underscoring his expertise in creating meaningful social change.
Sanchez’s connection to The Children’s Center is further strengthened by his own family’s experience. His son Benicio participated in the Children’s Center Summer Camp program in 2023. “As a parent of a child on the autism spectrum, I understand the challenges many families face. This role is not just professional but deeply personal. My family has seen the positive impact of the Children’s Center firsthand, motivating me to ensure that more young people receive the support they need,” Sanchez stated.
Outside of his professional endeavors, Sanchez actively contributes to his community as a board member for Latin Americans for Social and Economic Development (LA SED). He is a graduate of Detroit Public Schools and the University of Michigan-Dearborn. He is also a certified project management professional. Outside of work, David enjoys spending quality time with his family.
The Children’s Center is one of Michigan’s largest child guiding agencies providing for the mental health, socio-emotional, and child welfare needs of nearly 3,500 children annually. The Children’s Center, founded in 1929, provides evidence-based clinical therapy to children who deal with mental, behavioral, emotional, intellectual, developmental health and educational challenges or may have experienced trauma.
