About Us

Our Mission

Diamond In The Rough (DITR) is an award winning, faith-based, non-denominational, youth development and leadership program. Our organizational mission is to prepare, inspire, nurture and provide knowledge to girls through a variety of preventative programs and enrichment activities that build self-esteem, character, and leadership. Diamond In The Rough is committed to transforming the world one child, one family, one community at a time.

DITR provides a wide variety of activities including  weekly mentoring, leadership training, college and career coaching, family enrichment activities, and special events offered to girls in a safe, structured, fun environment. DITR seeks to empower girls physically, emotionally, intellectually, spiritually and financially.   Our program is designed to help girls walk in their purpose and take hold of the promises and the possibilities of God.

Our Philosophy

Diamond In The Rough (DITR) was formed on the belief that our children are like diamonds and each one is precious, unique and full of potential.  Our youth, like diamonds, require time, patience, and polishing to uncover and expose their true quality, value and brilliance.  DITR is committed to providing young girls regardless of race, social or economic status, the information, resources and opportunity to shine.

Our History

The year was 1995, when the founder of Diamond In The Rough (DITR), Nicole Steele, and a small group of friends began to discuss and reflect on those that had been most influential in their lives as children.  They all agreed that had it not been for the sacrifices of others and the people that offered encouragement and guidance along the way... their destiny may have been different.  As a result of that conversation, they made a commitment to sow the spirit of hope and possibilities into the lives of a new generation.

The group, in conjunction with The Carver Eastside Boys and Girls Club, formed a mentoring program called Sister-to-Sister.  The group was successful in achieving its goal of developing lifelong relationships, and providing guidance, encouragement and support.  Many of the participants of the Sister-to-Sister Program are still sharing and creating joyous memories to this day.  The youth participants of the program have gone on to attend college, begin careers, raise families and some have even gone on to be mentors themselves.   

It was through that mutually rewarding experience and others that Steele had been a part of (both as a child and as an adult), that the vision for DITR was birthed in September 2001.  In October 2003 after countless months of research, planning and prayer, DITR was officially set up as a project of The National Heritage Foundation.   In 2006, DITR was recognized as a 501(c)3 corporation by the IRS. DITR has successfully served over 2,000 youth and families since the inception.

Diamond In The Rough Youth Development Program, Inc.™
Copyright © 2006 Diamond In The Rough. All rights reserved.
Diamond In The Rough is a 501(c) 3 organization.