Harry Wilson has more than 40 years of experience working with vulnerable children, youth, and families.

As the Dean of Students, at a youth treatment facility, Harry helped create innovative programs for court administrators, and led a school for youth experiencing mental health and conduct disorders.

In the federal government, Harry led the Family and Youth Services Bureau annually serving millions of homeless children and families, including those affected by domestic violence and trafficking. Harry led several White House initiatives including a Presidential initiative on mentoring children with incarcerated parents. He directed four National Youth Summits, co-founded the Federal Mentoring Council, www.youth.gov and convened eight regional White House conferences on Helping America’s Youth with the First Lady. Internationally, he served on the Economic and Social Council representing US Youth health issues at the United Nations.

Harry currently works nationally to disseminate highly effective Social Emotional Learning and Professional Development initiatives for school systems and youth serving organizations at no cost. This resulted in partnerships with the many national youth organizations and over 50,000 schools across the nation. As a preventionist, Harry is helping colleges and universities implement SAMHSA’s Strategic Prevention Framework to prevent drug and alcohol abuse and promote mental health with their students.

Harry started helping Friends of the Children expand to Detroit five years ago. The expansion team raised the initial funding that welcomed FOTC to Detroit. Harry grew up in Detroit. Helping a proven mentoring strategy for children, come to fruition in one of the hardest hit cities in the nation has been more than gratifying.

Harry lives in Jackson County, Michigan with his wife Michele a retired special educator, track and cross-country coach. He is active in county government, state government and his local church.