Honoring a Legacy: Empowering Youth In Order To Break The Cycle

On November 13, 2018, the community of Houston, Texas was shaken by the tragic and senseless loss of De’Lindsey D. Mack, a high school senior with a bright future. His life was cut short by gun violence—an all-too-common story that echoes across cities and towns throughout the nation. But in the wake of this heartbreaking loss, his mother, Dahlia Mack, chose to transform her grief into purpose.

She founded the De’Lindsey Mack Youth Empowerment Program (DMYEP) to honor her son’s memory and to ensure that other young people have the support, guidance, and opportunities that De’Lindsey—and so many others—deserved.

DMYEP exists to break the cycle of violence, trauma, and inequality that threatens so many of today’s youth. We aim to create a future where all young people, regardless of their background or circumstances, can thrive academically, emotionally, and socially. Our mission is clear: empower youth and communities through mentorship, education, mental health support, and civic engagement.

Every program we offer is grounded in healing, hope, and opportunity.

Empowerment Through Mentorship

At DMYEP, we believe mentorship changes lives. Our youth empowerment and mentorship programs are designed to:

• Develop leadership and communication skills.

• Build self-esteem and goal-setting habits.

• Connect youth with caring adult role models who guide them through challenges.

Whether it’s helping a teen see a future beyond their neighborhood or encouraging them to take steps toward their dream career, mentorship is the heartbeat of DMYEP.

Mental Health Support & Healing

The trauma of violence leaves lasting scars. Many youth suffer in silence, struggling with anxiety, grief, or depression. DMYEP offers:

• Trauma-informed counseling

• Peer support groups

• Creative and holistic therapies like journaling and art

We provide safe, stigma-free spaces where youth can process their emotions, build resilience, and begin healing.

Education as a Pathway Forward

Education is more than a classroom—it’s a key to freedom and opportunity. DMYEP provides:

• Free tutoring and academic coaching

• Career exploration workshops

• College prep support including FAFSA help, essay writing, and campus visits

We equip students not just to graduate—but to excel.

Civic Engagement & Community Impact

Young people want to be heard—and we help amplify their voices. Through volunteer projects, leadership training, and social justice advocacy, youth:

• Learn to be agents of change

• Build pride in their communities

• Develop lifelong civic responsibility

DMYEP ensures youth aren't just influenced by their communities—they are shaping them.

Scholarships & College Support

Finances shouldn’t be a barrier to higher education. That’s why DMYEP partners with local organizations to provide:

• College scholarships

• Application and financial aid support

• Alumni mentorship and college success guidance

We believe that with the right support, every student can reach higher and dream bigger.

A Legacy of Love, A Future of Hope

De’Lindsey D. Mack’s life, though tragically short, now serves as a beacon for others. Through DMYEP, his legacy lives on—not just in memory, but in action. Every youth we empower, every family we support, every barrier we help break is a tribute to his spirit.

Join us. Let’s honor his memory by investing in young lives and building a community where every child has a chance to flourish.