About Pontiac United
Learn about our mission, vision, and the story behind our organization.
Empowering Youth, Building Community
Committed to empowering Pontiac's youth by providing engaging programs in arts, athletics, and civic engagement to foster positive futures and strong community leadership.
A Thriving, Active Community
To nurture a thriving, active community where every youth finds their voice and achieves their potential.
From Grassroots Movement to Community Pillar
Inspired by the community response following George Floyd's death in 2020, Pontiac United began as a powerful grassroots movement. What started as community conversations about social justice quickly evolved into action-oriented programs focused on youth empowerment.
Recognizing that sustainable change requires investing in the next generation, our founders channeled the energy of the movement into creating structured programs that address critical community needs while providing safe, nurturing environments for youth development.
Since then, Pontiac United has blossomed into a vital community resource, serving hundreds of youth through diverse programs and building bridges across all segments of our community.
Our Core Values
The principles that guide everything we do at Pontiac United.
Empowerment
We believe in equipping youth with the tools, confidence, and opportunities to shape their own futures.
Inclusivity
We welcome and celebrate diversity in all forms, ensuring our programs are accessible to all youth.
Excellence
We strive for the highest standards in all our programs, encouraging youth to pursue their personal best.
Community
We foster a sense of belonging and collective responsibility for Pontiac's future.
Our Leadership
Meet the dedicated team guiding Pontiac United's mission.
Traciee Hirsch
Co-Founder, CEO
Traciee Hirsch is a lifelong resident of Pontiac, Michigan, and a dedicated advocate for youth and community empowerment. With over 30 years of experience working with young people, Traciee has been a guiding force in mentoring, education, and youth development.
She is the proud Co-Founder of Pontiac United, an organization committed to uplifting youth and fostering unity through programs that build leadership, confidence, and community pride.
Traciee holds degrees in Social Work and Mental Health, and is currently pursuing her Bachelor's in Applied Workplace Leadership at Northern Michigan University. She also serves as a 2nd-grade teacher at the Arts and Technology Academy of Pontiac, where she continues to inspire and support the next generation of leaders every day.
In 2025, Traciee was honored with the Unsung Hero Award by the City of Pontiac in recognition of her unwavering dedication to service and her impactful work in the community.
Traciee is a licensed Minister, with two children and 3 grandchildren.
Sean Preston
Co-Founder, Director
Sean Preston is a successful entrepreneur and community leader known for his dedication to his hometown of Pontiac, Michigan. Born and raised in Spring Lake Village, Sean grew up in a single-parent household, with his mother working hard to provide for him after his father passed away when he was just nine years old. Despite this adversity, Sean was determined to make the most of his life and to give back to his community.
After graduating from Pontiac Central High School, Sean explored his artistic side and spent some time pursuing his passion for art. Additionally, he dedicated his time to working within his local church. Eventually, Sean's entrepreneurial spirit led him to start his own business, which proved to be a turning point in his career.
His innovative approach and unwavering dedication to his vision paved the way for the creation of the widely popular brand, Yaktown Don't Back Down. As the brand's creator, Sean demonstrated his creativity and business acumen, building a successful enterprise that has earned him a well-deserved reputation as a respected figure in the business world. The brand's loyal following is a testament to Sean's leadership and commitment to excellence, setting him apart as a true entrepreneurial trailblazer.
However, Sean is not just a businessman – he is also a passionate advocate for his community. For more than a decade, he has been involved in a variety of community service projects, working tirelessly to make Pontiac a better place for all who call it home. Sean's commitment to his community is reflected in his extensive involvement in local organizations such as Accent Pontiac and Habitat for Humanity of Oakland County, where he currently serves on the board of directors.
Today, Sean is married with three children, and he continues to be a champion for his community. His dedication, leadership, and entrepreneurial spirit have made him a respected figure in Pontiac and beyond, and his legacy is sure to endure for many years to come.
Eric Holman
Martial Arts Sensei & Instructor, Board Member
Eric Holman has been a dedicated member of Pontiac United since its founding. A lifelong resident of Pontiac, Eric is deeply committed to giving back to the community that raised him. He currently serves as a teacher in the Pontiac School District, where he combines his passion for education, discipline, and mentorship to inspire youth both in and out of the classroom.
A black belt in Taekwondo, Eric is undefeated in cage fighting and holds both All-City and All-County Wrestling Championships. He also has two years of professional jiu-jitsu experience, making him a well-rounded and highly skilled martial artist.
As the current Sensei of Pontiac United's Martial Arts Program, Eric leads with excellence, focus, and compassion. In addition to martial arts instruction, he specializes in youth mental health and tutoring, helping young people develop confidence, discipline, and emotional strength.
Eric continues to volunteer his time selflessly, serving as both a role model and mentor to the next generation of leaders in Pontiac.
Parent Committee
Dedicated parents working to support and strengthen our programs.
Raven Gross
President
As a parent advocate, my goal is to be a bridge to the organization for the parents. This bridge goes both ways. At times we sign up our children for programs, and we as parents have no voice. I plan to create a partnership so we can work together to foster an environment that will allow for growth on both sides.
D'Wanna Jemison
Vice President
Hello Pontiac United community! I am D'Wanna Jemison and I am a devoted Pontiac United Dance Mom. I've had the pleasure of being a part of such a wonderful organization for the past five years. Throughout the years I've witnessed huge success stories, major growth in all of our youth, and a large amount of positive change. This organization has really set the tone for our community! Bridging the gap is a part of the Pontiac United motto and they have truly exceeded that expectation. I look forward to all of our future successes.
Marissa Hernandez-Ibanez
Head Liaison
As a dedicated Bilingual Hispanic Liaison, I am passionate about building bridges between Spanish-speaking communities and the institutions that serve them. I am fluent in both English and Spanish and possess a deep understanding of both Hispanic culture and the importance of equitable access to resources. I strive to foster trust, communication, and inclusivity in every interaction. I believe that language should never be a barrier to opportunity. My goal is to help create environments where all voices are heard, respected, and valued.
Romona Greenlee
Parent Committee Member
Romona Greenlee is the visionary Founder and CEO of Empower Social Circle, a nonprofit dedicated to enriching the lives of young people with special needs and from diverse backgrounds. Under her leadership, Empower Social Circle offers life-skills programs, inclusive sports and recreation, and community-based mentorship initiatives—all designed to strengthen confidence, foster belonging, and encourage independence.
Key Highlights of Her Work
- Inclusive Life-Skills Programs – Romona has created workshops that teach practical skills—everything from cooking and budgeting to job readiness and digital literacy—tailored to meet a range of developmental needs.
- Adaptive Sports & Recreation – Believing in the power of physical activity, she oversees ongoing soccer, swimming, and exercise classes adapted for varied abilities, ensuring every child can participate.
- Cultural & Diversity Engagement – She brings diversity front and center, designing programs that celebrate each child's background, culture, and personal identity. Through storytelling, art, and community events, Romona nurtures empathy and understanding.
- Community Inclusion & Advocacy – Romona and her team collaborate with schools, local businesses, and municipal organizations to break down barriers and create seamless inclusion—ensuring youth stay connected to their neighborhoods and schools.
- Mentorship & Family Support – Empower Social Circle pairs youth with trained mentors who provide consistent social support, role modeling, and emotional encouragement. Romona also hosts regular parent workshops to share resources and foster inter-family connection.
Under her leadership, Empower Social Circle has dramatically expanded access to vital programs, helping sustain development and community engagement for children who might otherwise face isolation. Romona's mission is clear: every child deserves the chance to belong, grow, and thrive—no matter their ability or background.
Coaches
Our dedicated coaches inspiring and developing young athletes.
Dequawnta Raspberry
Pontiac United Coach & Educator
Dequawnta Raspberry is a dedicated educator at the Arts and Technology Academy of Pontiac, where he currently teaches Health and Computer Science to middle and high school students. For the past four years, he has inspired young learners to think critically, build confidence, and develop lifelong skills.
A proud U.S. Army veteran, Mr. Raspberry served honorably as a Specialist. The leadership, discipline, and teamwork he developed in the military now guide his approach in both the classroom and on the field.
Beyond teaching, Dequawnta is passionate about youth development and community engagement. He proudly serves as the coach for Pontiac United's girls' basketball team and co-ed baseball team, dedicating his time to helping young people grow academically, athletically, and personally.
Dequawnta is also a proud father of three children and believes that every child has the potential to achieve greatness when given guidance, encouragement, and opportunity.
Marquise Foster
Baseball Coach
With three years of experience as a baseball coach, my focus is on creating a positive, encouraging environment where young players can learn the basics, love the game, and grow both as athletes and individuals. Born in Pontiac and a proud father of three, I know how important those early seasons are for building confidence, learning teamwork, and most of all, having fun.
Board Members
Our dedicated board members providing guidance and leadership.
Claudette Johnson
Trustee
David Monroe
Board Member
Shirine Holman
Secretary