Black Truth News: How long has this program been going on?
Darius Thomas: This is actually the first year of the program; I just got all my paperwork done, so now I’m in my baby stages, but I have a lot of fire, a lot of energy, and a lot of passion to get this message out.
Black Truth News: You made an interesting point, in regards to curtailing the dropout rate. It must be difficult dealing with the negative stigma that surrounds the youth, and the increase in violence in the city of Chicago. What made you want to start this?
Darius Thomas: Well you have to start young, we need a major change, it has to be a movement, and I believe you have to start with the young people.
Older people, the older generations have seen some things, and went through some things that taught them to do better; younger people are inundated with a lot of negativity, to the point where they believe that’s the way life is. We have to reach out to them, and show them that it’s not all negative. Show them that are more to life than glorifying negativity. You have to start that way, because they represent us. You can’t run away from the future of the community, you have to embrace them head on.
Awsome organization and Founder. I can feel your passion and I believe that Darius is on the road to helping young people change their lives in a very positive way. Thanks to Blacktruth.com and Jarod Horton for Highlighting such a dynamic brother and professional.