The House Of Darla
Origin
Every community deserves a safe place where they can have access to support, resources, inspiration, and opportunities; a space where people can find solace. Growing up, and still till this day, it truly takes a village. You could go to your neighbor for sugar, or supplies, you could get an extra set of eyes to watch out for and protect your youth, you could get wisdom, strength, an ear to listen, a shoulder to lean on , and a hand to help. It was a place where if you had a job-interview, or a sudden emergency you could get support. This, I believe, can continue to exist in a greater capacity. The House of Darla is more than a place of mentorship. It’s a place where hope, inspiration, confidence, healing, love, compassion, kindness, strength and faith can also exist. A place where opportunities and skills can be gained. We believe in community and neighborhoods being able to have access to fun, knowledge, equity, networks, tools, and empowerment. We still believe it takes a village to not only raise a child, but support each other.
Process
Central CT State University
Bachelors of Arts in Psychology, with a minor in Business.
A Dream is Born
Students With Aspiring Goals (S.W.A.G.)
NHA Learning Center
Opportunity
Arriving fresh out of college a series of interesting events would lead me to the privilege of not only working in and giving back to the neighborhood I grew up in; yet working for the very learning center I learned in. Not too long after I would receive the opportunity to be a part of a team to save another site working with middle , high school and college bound youth.This particular site was being considered for closure due to low attendance, behavior issues, and more. Upon arriving I would witness how and why students were not engaged, un-interested and lacked the motivation. This is my Ah ha moment, the moment I realized the dream that has been brewing since a child but created in college could be facilitated. I knew that the students I worked with everyday would benefit from a program that could spark ingenuity, empower, inspire and uplift them; all while also preparing and equipping them for life. A program that challenged them to have character & integrity, while promoting the importance of community, collaboration, and kindness. Making education and learning fun, these very students would be come the first of many. Little did I know the growth and impact it would make, and the journey it would take me on.
