Our Story
D.A.F.T Youth Services Inc is a 501(c)(3)non-profit organization that was founded in 2019 as a program to dismantle the School-to-Prison Pipeline theory among students of color. While D.A.F.T heavily focuses on Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) and growth, we strive to bring forth positive change for communities that are often underserved, underdeveloped, and marginalized.
What’s in the name? Dandelions are a family of flowering plants that grow in many parts of the world. They're the most common species. You may be familiar with dandelion as a stubborn weed that never seems to leave your lawn or garden.
However, they are flowers, too, so they should be treated and nourished as any flower would!
Our Why
Our objective is to equip students with emotional intelligence tools that empower them to make healthier choices, ultimately shaping a more constructive and fulfilling future for themselves. We believe in the power of providing the necessary support and skills, enabling students to navigate life's challenges successfully and achieve positive outcomes in their personal and academic pursuits.
Our Mission & Vision
Our mission is to empower students through restorative justice and social-emotional support, valuing their uniqueness, cultivating self-determination, and fostering emotional intelligence for lasting success and positive community impact. Additionally, we are fervently focused on dismantling the school-to-prison pipeline.
Our vision is to create a world where every student is recognized and valued for their authentic selves. We envision a society where restorative justice and social-emotional practices are the cornerstone of educational environments, promoting empathy, understanding, and connection among students, educators, and communities.
D.A.F.T Core Values
Our core values are fundamental to D.A.F.T Youth Services. They are the guiding principles that dictate behavior and aid our students with taking ownership of their lives.
