Dear Source:

I just wanted to say that I am thrilled to see the Youthbuild program still going strong. Through my previous employer Smart Inc. I had the opportunity to prepare the grants for HUD along with Mr. Jerome Johns and Ms. Irma Hodge under the leadership of Mr. Conrad Francois at VIHA (prior to HUD taking control of the organization).
I was dismayed that after being awarded close to $1 million for this program through 2 years of grant rewards, that the Housing Authority (under the direction of Ray Fonseca) failed to follow the program guidelines, and I was fearful that the youth would suffer because of this.
God is good however, and it shows through the success of this program. I am so proud of the youth, and the people who are presently responsible for ensuring that the dream we had for the youth is being realized. Our children are our greatest assets, and it is our responsibility to fight for them, to ensure that they are not left to fail. Thanks for allowing me to share my thoughts.

Candace Dula
Temple Hills, Maryland

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