INDIANAPOLIS – 18-year-old D’Arthur McDaniel knows what it’s like to be homeless, but Monday he was able to give back to his community through a youth mentoring program.
McDaniel is part of the New Breed of Youth program that targets young men ages 8 - 18. He recently handed out food to those in need.
"I know what it is like to be outside without anything,” said McDaniel. “I just didn't want to listen to anybody. I was running away a lot, but now I’ve been able to talk my problems out.”
He said he credits his progress to Kareem Himes, one of the program’s several mentors.
“He was a respectful male role model, which is something I never really had,” said McDaniel. “Though you feel like you're in it alone, there is always someone there who is willing to help."
Many of the others participating in the program said they have created a family bond and have big dreams for the future.
“I plan on going for advanced manufacturing and if possible changing over to IUPUI and graduate from there,” said Jordan Colunga. "I'm not doing something for me, I'm doing something for other people and I'm helping other people makes me feel good. I hope it makes everyone else feel good too."
McDaniel said he wants to attend college and become a video game designer. He wants to encourage all struggling teens to keep moving forward.
"Keep your head up,” he said. “Never let your pride get in the way of making decisions. And love yourself and love those who are willing to help you."
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