NOTE: As of Feb. 29, 2024, Carolina Youth Development Center (CYDC) has rebranded to Landmarks for Families. Our nonprofit, community programs and residential services remain committed to cultivating thriving youth and families in this new chapter.
David DeHart understands well the lasting impact positive adult role models can have on at-risk children’s lives.
DeHart, a third year PhD student at MUSC and co-president of the Multicultural Graduate Student Association (MGSA), lived in group and foster care homes in the Upstate from age 13 to 18.
A series of influential mentors he met throughout his adolescence helped to encourage him and guide him down a path of success.
DeHart’s life experience motivates him to volunteer with CYDC youth. “I especially enjoy giving back to the community when I come to see these kids,” DeHart said.
“I faced many adverse situations that were beyond my control while living in DSS care, and I know many of these remarkable children have similar daily struggles in their lives. I want them to see that success can come with due diligence, hard work, and dedicated mentors. What my mentors have molded me into is beyond anything I could have ever imagined.”