Two Dates and a Dash

• May 22nd 2019

Two Dates and a Dash Podcast Episode 35: Entrepreneur, Community Activist and Co-Founder of the STRIVE Initiative, David Charles

David Charles is a graduate of Pottstown Senior High School located in Southeastern, PA. Growing up as the middle child in a subsidized housing development, David has first-hand experience with the obstacles that many youth face on a daily bases in many situations. He grew up knowing what it was like for the adults in his life to work to make ends meet and not have enough time in the day for family engagement. David has also traveled to areas such as California, Florida, New York, Atlanta, and Germany and met many lost children in his travels. While he pursued his music career, he worked to help many youth musicians who crossed his path in subtle ways. He understands the plight of the young man who has a hard time believing that making better choices equates to a better life. The understanding and dream David had then and stays steadfast to today is the motivation behind the creation of S.T.R.I.V.E. Initiative (STRIVE – Strengthening Tomorrow Requires Initiative & Vision Everyday). Currently, David is the Executive Director for STRIVE Initiative. STRIVE is a 501(c)(3) certified nonprofit organization. The goal of STRIVE is simple – to assist under-served youth in realizing their full potential. STRIVE operates as an organization with a purpose to enlighten, aid and enhance the lives of youth in under-resourced areas through character-building programs including arts, recreation, physical activities, education and civic activities. STRIVE is currently working with local school districts to conduct educational programs for at-risk students undecided about their future that may choose an unhealthy way of progression in their lives David’s personal mission continues to be sparked by his sincere commitment to help area youth develop lifelong changes to improve their life and the lives of others. The long-term commitment of STRIVE, under the direction of David, work to support community revitalization through personal development of our precious youth. The younger generation has the potential to be leaders, so it is crucial that they have proper resources and motivation. David has also assisted the psychiatrist at a private nonprofit for more than eight years; empowering participants to find a pathway back to a lifetime of recovery. www.spiritofgheel.org David is also featured on media sites; broadcasting to over 50,000 schools nation wide with physical fitness content.