Diamond in the Rough Youth Development Inc

Diamond in the Rough is phenomenal, this organization has innovative and engaging programs for girls, Moms and Dads. The volunteers are excellent at meeting the needs of the kids from ages 5 through 12 grades. My daughter and granddaughter both graduated and are doing well in college from the things they learned at Diamond in the Rough.

I spent many years volunteering with this organization. I was given the opportunity to use many of my gifts and skills to support the mission. The most valuable thing I gained from my time with DITR is connections and sisterhood with the other volunteers.

In addition to being a nurturing and uplifting environment for girls, Diamond In The Rough is also a welcoming place for volunteers. Volunteers are informed, equipped, and given many opportunities to serve within the organization. This is a culture where ideas and feedback are respected and welcomed. At DITR, volunteers are valued and appreciated, from the newest to the most seasoned volunteer. This has been my experience as a volunteer, for many years.

I love what they do in the community. Creating a space for our young ladies to come together, be encouraged and have safe fun.

This is my second go around with DITR . these wonderful women are God sent !!! My first daughter was having a hard time after my husband passed and I knew she needed a mentor / friend to talk to. In joining this group helped her come out her shell and learn more about healing and having a positive attitude towards life . I am so grateful and thankful to have a circle of women who loves, care and so full of compassion! DITR has truly made a great impact not only on my daughters but myself as well . They’re not only support young girls they support FAMILIES!! I cannot express my gratitude enough ! I am thankful for all my new sisters in Christ and a special Thank you to …Dr. Nicole, Mrs. Monique , Dr. Audra Ms. Sharon Ms. Tammy , Ms. Natalie and Mrs. Toni !! I love you ladies so much . I pray over DITR May God bless this organization abundantly!!!

For 20 years, this organization has been transforming and impacting lives of young girls and their families. Leadership skills, confidence building, character building, self-esteem.....all of these reasons and more are why I continue to recommend this organization to any parent of young girls that I run into that is looking for a great organization to help instill positive values. This organization continues to think outside of the box to help young girls face the issues and challenges of today.

Diamond In The Rough is a non-profit organization like no other!! The opportunities presented to each child, grade levels, parents, and community are OUTSTANDING!!! For their mission is "Transforming the world ... one child, one family, one community at a time". As a father, I am thrilled my daughter continues to grow within the organization with her self confidence, self esteem, friendships, and more!!

Congratulations ! Dr. Nicole Steele and The entire Diamond in the Rough Family:
20 years of Service: amazing blessing.

Thanks for all that you do to empower the community.

Sincerely,
Kimberly and Mariah Goodloe

Diamond and The Rough is a stellar organization. They definitely live up to their mission statement. I am a volunteer and a grand parent of one of the mentees and have seen up close and personal the impact that this organization has had on the community through the mentoring, leadership and career coaching and family enrichment programs. My granddaughter who has been a member of the program since she was 3 years old, definitely has grown more confident and is not afraid to openly display her leadership skills at school among her peers. She speaks up when she sees other students displaying negative behaviors towards other young people and speaks to them about their choices. I think is a positive especially in todays word where it seems easier just to mind your own business. As a grandparent of Sariyah I have gained wisdom participating in all the parent sessions that are offered through DITR. I feel more knowledgeable and informed about what our youth are facing in today's world. I believe the fact that many of the alumni come back and volunteer after college says a whole lot about the impact that the program had on them during their tenure at DITR. That most definitely is a true indication of success and impact. Dr. Nicole and her team are doing an amazing job impacting the community as a whole and I cannot wait to see what the near future holds for this amazing organization. I am so very blessed that my granddaughter and our family as a whole is connected to DITR. May it prosper and continue for decades to come.

Diamond in the rough has not only changed my life but has given me a voice and a platform to pour into young girls in need. I graduated in the middle of the pandemic and needed an outlet to connect and give back to those in need. I never mentored before but I always enjoyed being in the presence of youth because they always brought a new perspective to things . I did a Google search for service opportunities in my area and at the time Diamond in the Rough was doing virtual mentoring. I applied, interviewed, and became a mentor after a couple of training sessions. I’ve enjoyed my time thus far with DITR and I hope that in the years to come they can continue to transform the lives of more women and girls! If you ever felt the desire of community and sisterhood and are looking for a positive outlet , DITR is the place for you !

Diamond In The Rough is a WONDERFUL organization!!!! This is my 3rd year mentoring. I absolutely love how DITR is transforming the lives of both the Gems and Jewels.

Awesome mentoring program that transforms the lives of brown girls. I love being a mentor.

Wonderful organization for girls development and the surrounding community

I have been a volunteer at Diamond in the Rough for seven years. It's been a wonderful experience to give support to young ladies in the form of programming and events that cater to their needs and growth in school and careers.

The other side of volunteering is the sense of womanhood and working with women of all backgrounds, experiences and knowledge. I love it!

Well, it’s pretty simple for me! I love Everything about the passion and love Dr.Steele, Audra(shoutout)Queen and team provide for our youth. I witnessed this first hand. Keep SLAYING!!!
BELA aka Linda Rigby������������������

I'm extremely grateful my daughter is a part of DITR. This organization upholds the authenticity of their motto "Transforming the world . . . One child, one family, one community at a time". DITR offers a safe space/environment for girls to gain momentum and confidence as well as enjoy the journey as they are growing. My daughter has been a part of this organization for 5 years and the impacts are invaluable. Entrusting others with our precious daughters is challenging initially, but when you see the transformation real time it truly blesses your heart.

Diamond In The Rough, is such an amazing organization not because I am a volunteer, but because I am the adult mentors, mentees and Admin Leaders consistantly pour into each other faithfully. I am so honored to be apart of an organization that allows you to grow, learn, and lift each other up at all times. I love this organization.

I love Diamond in the Rough Youth Development. This is my second year mentoring and my daughters third year being a part of this organization. I am so thankful that my daughter has a positive place to help her grow into the beautiful young lady she is becoming. This organization has helped my daughter have a voice where she did not have the confidence to do so. I am happy to have signed on to help other girls to become the most beautiful selves they can be.

Diamond in the Rough is a powerful and wonderful organization that promotes self love, GOD, strength as sisters and individuals, self esteem, guidance and self worth to our young women of Gwinnett. We need an organization like this for our youth and I'm so blessed to be a part of it!

I have been apart or DITR, and it has changed my life. The program is amazing and the mentors really care. Even Mrs. Nicole gets really personal and tried to know each girls name. Great program.

Diamond In The Rough is an amazing organization. Their vision serves a purpose that all young ladies need to grow and develop. They are such innovators in the community. They are spot on each year keeping up with the various trends and challenges girls face. DITR goes above and beyond by implementing topics and activities that are intriguing.

I have had the honor of working with this program for 12 years as a high school mentor. I look forward to brainstorming with my fellow mentors, our fearless Director and seeing our girls each and every Saturday. It is more like a family not just an organization. We are transforming lives every day and I am proud to say I am apart of the process.

Diamond in the Rough is proving to be a great outlet for our girls in regards to their future decisions, choices, careers and positive endeavors they seek as goals and challenges.

This is my 10th year as a mentee in this program and every year, Dr. Nicole and the mentors show up and show out!! Always creating new initiatives for bettering the community (locally AND globally), excellent engagement with the girls of every age; highly recommend!

A hidden gem serving Gwinnett and the surrounding areas. I stumbled across DITR over 12 years ago not knowing it was the beginning of a life long partnership. I began as a volunteer for a few years and both of my daughters have been members of DIDs and DITR cluster. DITR has shaped, molded and enhanced my daughters' lives. We are forever grateful to Dr. Nicole, all of the volunteers and families that we have bonded with over the years.

Diamond In the Rough is an amazing program for girls like me to become comfortable with my sisters and as an outlet. I highly recommend this amazing program

This is my daughter's 2nd year in DITR. This program is helping her open up around other girls her age. She is learning to love herself and be a positive young lady. I Thank DITR for this.

I have been a mentor with Diamond In The Rough since 2010 and can frankly say it has been one of the best decisions I’ve made to date!

The impact this organization has made has not only transformed the lives of the you g ladies we serve but it has also transformed my life.

Dr. Steele has done an outstanding job shifting to a virtual platform this term and sessions are able to run just as effortlessly.

It is wonderful to witness this organization transforming the world one community, one child at a time!

DITR came into the Dekalb County neighborhood as a Chapter at Chapel Hill Middle School. It was indeed a positive influence and outlet for many of our girls who lack self-confidence. Additionally, as a community member, I can see the dedication and need first hand.

The Diamond in the Rough Youth Development program (DITR) has truly been a gift from God for me as a single parent and for my only daughter Justine. My daughter is learning leadership skills and the necessary soft skills to become an excellent communicator. The ladies in this program have been unbelievably supportive, professional, kind, and operate with the highest integrity. I can see so much growth and confidence in my daughter. I am so excited to see this program grow into everything God wants it to be. DITR has really made a difference in our lives. Thank You, Dr. Nicole, Ms. Audra, Ms. Anna Maria, and the many strong leaders over the years that have molded Justine into the wonderful young lady she is.

I love everything about diamond in the rough, the way family is brought together, the sisterhood. When I met Dr Nicole and Audra McDanial , I realized that this organization was one that I wanted to serve in , the integrity of this organization is without question, outstanding

I have had the honor of working with this organization for 16 years. It is an Amazing organization. It has been a Blessing to watch the impact of this organization on young girls (mine included) , families and the community.

The organization has grown a lot since the beginning. I have been and continue to be impressed with how well the organization operates. With the challenges related to Covid,
DITR has continued to be able to impact the lives of others and do it with the same class, professionalism and compassion.

This is my first year as a mentor with DITR. Starting with the orientation and Mentor training, I knew I was going to enjoy my time and volunteer efforts with the girls and my fellow mentors. This program is so well organized and intentional. I've been a mentor in other programs for young ladies when I was teacher, and in one of the previous programs, I had to pretty much revamped the program to provide more purpose and activities for the girls. The DITR format for me by far surpassed my expectations. The program is extremely well thought out to meet the information for life needs of the girls and modernized keep them excited. The mentors are genuinely invested in the success and growth of the girls, and leaders ensures the mission of DITR is met and materialized. After joining DITR, I've met a few mentors who have been with DITR for over a decade; Ive met young ladies who were mentored and now are mentors, and I believe I've joined an organization where I can make a difference in the lives of young ladies for years to come and also build life long friendships

This organization has affected my life in so many ways I would have never imagined. I started at Diamond In The Rough in this grade. I had no confidence or self-love and felt like I had no support. While in DITR( Diamond in the Rough) I realized that I can't look for happiness in others and relationships. I needed to find the greatness within myself and stop caring about other's opinions. Now I'm in the tenth grade and see my true potential in this world is endless. I don't need to surround myself with people all the time to be happy. I'm perfectly fine with being alone sometimes and since then, I have had more positive people come into my life.

My daughter, Mariah & I are grateful for the relationship we developed with Diamond in The Rough Family. We are also thankful for the valuable services and support offered by the entire Diamond in the Rough Team. Thank you Dr. Nicole Steele and your amazing team for all that you do to empower the community.

Sincerely,
Kimberly & Mariah Goodloe

This amazing organization is such a beautiful treasure for girls ages 4-18. I've been volunteering with this organization for nearly 11 years. Every single experience is "Jesus Class" and so thoughtfully designed. Each young lady that I have seen come into this organization comes out differently and more confident in who she is. As a volunteer, I feel empowered and inspired by all the women that have given their time to pour into the lives of these beautiful girls. If you're looking to volunteer or a place for your daughter to be loved and provided the life skills that she needs to be a confident young woman, look no further!

Diamond in the Rough is a great experience. This year is my first year of Diamond in the Rough it has been amazing. I remember the first day of diamond in the rough, I was so scared and kind of uncomfortable. Then we talked and got into our grade groups and I have been comfortable ever since then. I feel like Diamond in the Rough is a great way to build self confidence.

When you are looking for resources to help your girls succeed, finding the right resources can feel like finding a needle in a haystack. This can be especially challenging when you are not sure where to look. This organization regularly creates opportunities for parents to connect with the right community, business, and government leaders. From college and career planning to housing and financial planning - they consider the whole family. From the perspective of a volunteer, this is a great place to share your time and talents.

I am new to Diamond in the Rough with this being my daughters first year. If you see the picture of her on her first day you would see that she was not excited AT ALL to be a apart of the organization. However, by the end of that first day her whole attitude changed. She now looks forward to every Saturday session with her new friends. Not only does my daughter love DITR, but as a parent I am impressed with the resources they provide to us. We just recently had a parent resource fair and they gathered a wealth of resources that are available to help not only members of DITR but also other families in the community. I am so happy that I did not hesitate to register my daughter with this organization because I already love what it has provided my family.

In speaking with Audra, I was immediately captivated by her passion for equipping our girls with the empowerment to BE DYNAMIC! Audra spoke in a way that was not only engaging but also endearing – it was made very clear to me that DITR is the program for my daughter. I walked away from our interaction feeling empowered myself – to know the DITR program is all about creating awareness and investing in our girls so they can be their best selves reminded me of my requirement not only as a mom but also as a corporate professional to support the work being done by innovators such as yourself/ your team.

Audra McDaniel was exceptional in her willingness to assist and inform and I want to echo what I am certain you have heard before, DITR has a powerful yet compassionate voice representing their brand!

My daughter Amari J. has been a member of DITR for 9 years. I have seen her growth. I'm greatful to Dr. Nicole and her wonderful staff. Their dedication to the young ladies is amazing. They are truly empowering and transforming one young lady at a time. I highly recommend this organization!

Diamonds in the Rough is a wonderful organization that empowers our young black girls to work together, build their self- esteem and confidence to know that they can achieve anything!

DITR has made a positive impact in my daughter's life by offering a medium in which she can interact with other young ladies her age as well as with a group of positive women who reconfirms her self worth, helps her to develop her leadership skills, and provides resources to help her with her academic and career goals. This organization also allows for her to ask the tough questions regardless of whether the question relates to academics, sexuality, sex, ,and other issues and questions that teenagers experience.

Diamond in the rough is one of the best organizations around to assist young ladies in their growth and wellbeing. D.I.T.R. has done wonders for my daughter.

This is our first year with Diamonds In The Rough and so far I have been very pleased with the program! The mentors have had such a positive and loving influence on my daughter and she truly enjoys each session she attends. The emphasis on building leadership skills, self confidence and self empowerment particularly for girls of color is evident throughout every facet of the organization and is so important. So happy my daughter had an opportunity to be apart of the program!

Diamond In The Rough is a magnificent youth development program that is revolutionizing the lives of young girls (ages 4 to 18) in order to help build their self-esteem, character and leadership skills. Further, Dr. Steele and her team of leaders, mentors, and volunteers are extremely passionate about empowering, educating, developing, guiding, advising, bonding and providing support to each girl to help them develop, grow, reach their goals and succeed in life. Furthermore, the girls within the organization receive emotional support, learn valuable life lessons, receive lots of hugs, compliments and words of encouragement to build their confidence. Diamond In The Rough is a phenomenal organization that is making a mark in the community, developing the next generation of leaders, providing a platform for girls to shine, making impartations, helping girls to fulfill their dreams and transforming the world one child…one family…one community at a time.

Great problem!!! I would recommend this to program to all parents and fathers with daughters.

I am volunteer now , but i was actually a “gem” of this wonderful program when I was in high school. A “gem” is a young lady who takes part in the program as a mentee. I was so impacted by the program that I decided to come back & volunteer. No matter what side I am on I am always learning & improving. I feel like without his program I wouldn’t have realized the poteinal I have nor would I be trying to use it for anything. I am just thankful to have been a part of an organization that you can actually see & feel the love when you walk in.

DITR is such a positive impactful organization. Everytime I attend a function I get goose bumps from all the love, inspiring stories and the positive role models the mentors the youth. I always say wow I wish they were around when I was growing up.

Diamond In the Rough is an amazing program! My daughter and I will always be apart of this family!! DITR provides spiritual, psychological, educational and financial support to parents and children. I love you all!!!

Dr. Jillian Whatley, NCSP

This program is an amazing resource for the development of young girls! I am so glad our family found out about this nonprofit!

For years, DITR has nurtured young girls in leadership and careers. I've been there from the beginning and so proud of the work they continue to do.

DITR is an AMAZING organization for young girls, parents and the community! From camps to conferences to coaching and creative curriculum, this is the program for your girl. You won't be sorry you enrolled, but you will be sorry if you don't. :)

A wonderful organization to help young ladies become great women

Diamonds in the Rough is a great organization within our community. The organization instills girls to know who they are, their worth, value of giving back to the community and helping others, and reaching their highest potential. Keep up the great work!

I have been a volunteer with DITR for 12 years. Serving in DITR along side Dr. Nicole has been and continues to be one of my best decisions. My daughters are also in the Diamonds in Development program for girls 4-8 yrs old. DITR believes our girls are never too young to learn their value, set goals, impact their community and become leaders!

Diamonds in the Rough is an organization that really focuses on developing academic, life and professional skills that girls, particularly those of color, need to be successful. My two girls joined this year, and absolutely love it! The coaches brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the organization, and Dr. Steele's leadership is intentional and her vision contagious. We are truly blessed to have an organization like this available to girls in our community.

Hands Down ... Diamond In The Rough Is The Best Mentoring Program Ever!!! My wife is a long volunteer and I continually see lives being changed because of this Program!

This is our first year with Diamonds in the Rough and so far our experience has been amazing. My daughter is home schooled so I signed her up so that she can have another outlet for social activities. I’ve already seen a difference in her level of enthusiasm.

Diamond in the rough continues to grow and flourish with girls and the community. They are truly inspiring the girls to be positive leaders of the future. As DITR reaches its 15 anniversary, I'm excited to see what God is going to do for the next 15 years. Only excellence for and from the best mentoring program.

This organization is great for girls who aspire to be great leaders!

I have participated and seen the work of Diamond in the Rough. It's a wonderful organization that mentors young girls that grow into amazing young women. I would like to thank everyone for your continued efforts and dedication and shaping the lives of our children!

This is an organization that has impacted my daughters lives significantly. Diamond in the Rough develops young ladies educationally, spiritually, emotionally, with their career exposure, community outreach involvement and so much more. I recommend this organization to every person I know who has daughters.

This program is an exceptional program for young girls. This program does great community work by donating to those in need. This program also helps parents by offering different family oriented workshops. I absolutely love it!!

I have been associated with this amazing program for 9 years mow! This program has truly helped me become the young lady i am today! The mentoring has kept me grounded and allowed me to stay on the right path through my high school years! They are so committed to ensuring that each child reaches they’re level of success! I wouldn’t be the caring leader I am today if it wasn’t for Diamond in the Rough!

This organization provides so many opportunities for families to engage on a consistent basis. We offer a FREE Parent Workshop held on the 1st Saturday of each month (open to the community). We host an annual Dare to Dream College & Career Summit which was recently held on Emory campus in October 2018. This Summit provided workshops and panels for parents & girls to obtain information and resources for post-secondary education for middle & high school aged girls. Our group mentoring has impacted so many lives over the past 15 years. The organization is growing into other counties within Georgia by partnering with middle and high school administrators to incorporate after school group mentoring sessions for girls. We also offer college preparation in-person & virtual monthly workshops while maintaining multi-faceted events and opportunities to engage our community. We are growing and enjoying the impact we are making in each girls' lives. Please visit our website or email us for more information!

Email: info@ditr.org
Website: www.ditr.org

Diamond in the Rough has been instrumental in keeping my daughters and I ahead of the game in the way of planning and preparing them for brilliant futures. I’m so extremely grateful for this program and the information shared. The opportunities made available to the girls is invaluable.

Diamond in the Rough is a gem in our community for our daughter’s. It provides a platform to build future leaders, advocates, and independent thinker’s. My daughter enjoys the socialization that the Diamonds in development team provides. The character building skills and other development aspects she is learning is priceless and it reinforces what my husband and I teach at home in a safe and positive environment. Thank you Dr. Nicole for all that you do for the Diamond community !

Diamond in the Rough Youth Development, Inc. is an exceptional nonprofit organization under the direction of Dr. Nicole Steele and her amazing leadership team. From the moment I joined as a volunteer, I was blown away by the spirit of excellence this organization exudes. DITR is intentional about thinking outside the box and coming up with creative ways to reach the youth. Each event is planned with precision and executed beautifully to ensure each girl and each parent benefits from the resources made available. I have such respect and admiration for Dr. Nicole and I salute her for being the face of an organization that has helped so many girls take on life with confidence and determination. DITR has been and will continue to be a beacon of light in our community that reminds girls that they are unapologetically fierce, fabulous, and favored!

Diamond in the Rough is a structured empowering program that allows our youth to identify with who they are and how to get to the next desired level. The program provides tools to assist in day to day life experiences and navigating through uncomfortable scenarios in school life and home life. I'm extremely proud to have my daughter in a program that positively extends her values and reinforces the things I'm teaching from a parent perspective.

This organization is wonderful.My daughter has been a part of DITR for 10 years and during that time her self confidence has grown and gained leadership skills as a result of her mentors and the program. They have an excellent college and careeer program and provide monthly village workshops on various topics are invaluable. The mentors truly care about the girls and bring out the best in them.

My daughter grew as a LEADER this program! The mentors are so genuine and supportive. It's a great place for young girls!

I can't get enough of this organization!!! I have been a mentor with Diamond In The Rough for the past 10 years and I love seeing and making a difference with the young ladies I come in contact with. At DITR we aren't just a mentoring program, but a family!!! Our mission continues to stand strong ... Transforming the world...one child, one family, one community at a time.

I enrolled my daughter in DITR in the beginning of highschool. My only child (daughter ) had been dealing with so many things. It was borderline teen depression. When we found this organization they were so open, friendly and easy to talk to. I no longer felt alone in this. As I sat in the monthly parent meetings and listened to the story of other parents I began to relate. I found so many answers to unanswered questions that I had been carrying around. My daughter is now a freshman in college. She is doing great. She volunteers in church and mentors to the youth. DITR played a BIG role in her life. They may have saved her life. We were definitely at a cross roads when we found DITR. I highly recommend these God fearing sisters. They do this from the heart! I pray God continues to bless this movement and orginization!

DITR is an amazing organization which makes such a difference in the lives of not only the girls but also the parents and mentors themselves. It is hard to imagine what the world would be like without organizations such as Diamond in the Rough. The ripples that are being sent forth will be felt for generations to come.

DITR is a beautiful organization. The intentions and character of the volunteers are exceptional. The young women AND parents receive quality service and information. I am honored to be a volunteer and a part of the team.

I am a volunteer with Diamond in the Rough, a mentoring program for young ladies ages 4-18. The mentors very clearly love the girls, and each other. Every mentor and volunteer helps the girls, parents, and each other grow spiritually and mentally through various programs and special events. Diamond in the Rough has operated for 14 years in the Gwinnett County area. There are many volunteers who have been with Dr. Nicole Steele all those years. Others, like me, just started. But, it doesn't matter how long you have been with them, they love and welcome you like an old friend. This same love and acceptance is shown to the mentees. Dr. Steele is obviously quite passionate about what she does, and so are all the other women involved. I couldn't have chosen a better place to volunteer.

DITR is an amazing organization. I started volunteering with them while taking care of my Mom as her Caregiver. I lost my Mom Feb 20, 2017 a few weeks after I started volunteering with DITR.

Finding out about this program has been a life saver for me. While the girls were learning so was I. It helped build me up when I was sinking.

The young ladies also support one another. It's the most beautiful thing to see. I have never seen anything like this program. It's a win win situation for everyone.

I have volunteered with Diamond in the Rough since 2010 and cannot think of anything but wonderful things to say about this organization. Dr. Nicole Steele has done a phenomenal job at providing tools, resources, and guidance to young women and mentors alike. It has been a pleasure being a part of such a remarkable organization and I look forward to many years to come!

I have volunteered with DITR for almost three years! The organization is very well run, providing positive, enriching and life-changing experiences for the girls it serves, as well as the adult volunteers. Nothing but positive accolades for Dr Nicole Steele, leadership team and the other volunteers!!!!

My experience has been as a volunteer and committee member. I enjoy working with Dr. Steele and the other staff members. The young ladies that are a part of the program are growing and maturing because of the awesome mentor volunteers and the wonderful relationships that they are building with each other. I love this organization!

Wow! The day does not have enough hours available for me to talk about DITR. The Leadership, volunteers and mentees are awesome. Everytime i hear the typical saying that "Women/Girls can NOT get along. I have great joy stating that , I know of an organization that defeats that stereotype and that organization is Diamond In the Rough. I am so honored to be apart of such an outstanding group that I can call each individual my sistersfriends in love & Christ.

Anamaria

Diamond in the Rough has helped me in so many ways. I have a greater understanding of what being a powerful female leader is and also the worth of my mind and heart. Being in this organization has changed my life and helped me talk through issues, while stregthening my relationship with God and myself. Definitely glad to be apart of such a great mentoring program.

My university requires that I participate in a social or human service agency to complete my degree program. As I searched for the best agency or organization to partner with, I found Diamond in the Rough. My initial interview with its director, Nicole Steele was more than pleasant, it was refreshing. The passion and commitment she and her staff have for this community's young ladies and their families is extraordinary. They spend many hours planning and strategizing for events, workshops, symposiums, and retreats geared towards the betterment of its participants and their parents. The love and passion in the room during the events is almost palpable. With each event I attend and volunteer, I find myself encouraged and gratified. Under the mentorship of Nicole Steele, hundreds of young women have learned what it is to not only love themselves, but recognize that they have a future. A bright and prosperous future. I am very happy to be a part of such a progressive, yet humble organization that prides themselves in loving, directing and shaping young ladies into future leaders, future educators and determined women. Upon my completion of my volunteering position, I am sure to remain a volunteer and hope to become a staff member. Yeah, this organization is "just" that awesome, better yet, blessed.

Kimberley L. Wharton

My daughter is involved and a very active part of this organization and she has blossomed and come into her most knowledgeable and resourceful self because of the dedicated women of this organization, leading the pack is Nicole Steele. They have been an integral part of shaping who she is becoming. They love, they encourage, they share, they listen, they guide, they include, they help these young ladies be their very best self under all circumstances they will encounter in their lives. they also make sure that the parents of these young lades are aware and included in the work that is being done with their precious gems! This organization puts the very best in front of these ladies so they know that the sky is the limit for them in whatever they want to do in their futures.

I have volunteered with this organization for 9 years. It has truly been a blessing for me to be able to take part in the different events offered each year. I am a volunteer as well as my daughter has participated as a jewel for 9 years. The director of the program, Nicole Steele is such a motivator for all of the girls and the volunteers. She is dedicated, committed, and an inspiration to all of us. She lives and models the mission and vision of Diamond In The Rough.

Diamond In The Rough is an awesome Faith-based organization. Not only does it help develop skills and knowledge for the youth it also creates a safe environment for them. Allowing them to open up and really see themselves how God sees them. This is also a great place for sisterhood bonding. I am happy to be a part of this organization and I look forward to seeing this program expand nationwide!

This organization does an amazing job mentoring young ladies as well as supporting the whole family. My daughter has been part of DITR for eight years and I have seen her personal growth and leadership skills blossom due to mentoring and support from these wondeful ladies.

Diamond In The Rough has been an amazing blessing to me and my family. A wonderful organization.

As a former DITR mentee and current volunteer, I have the pleasure of watching young ladies transform into intelligent & confident leaders thanks to the work of Diamond in the Rough. The intentional programs shape young girls into productive women & help build strong relationships in the lives of every girl apart of Diamond in the Rough. I would not have the confidence & half of my accomplishments to date had it not been for my involvement in DITR.

Wonderful experience, worth all the effort I put forth.

I have been a board member of Diamond In The Rough for several years. I am always amazed at the sincere care DITR not only takes for the girls but their parents as well. Helping to educate and empower them to be the best parents they can be as they educate and empower their girls to be the best they can be.

Being in Diamond In The Rough since 4th grade and almost eight years, has taught me that I have a dream! Also, Diamond In The Rough helped me understand my self-worth, made me a better leader and helped me realize why it's important to make a change in the community. Although this year will be my last year in the program and I plan to make it the best year by leaving a huge legacy at Diamond In The Rough that will be talked about years from now.

Mrs. Nicole Steele is a great role model and one of the most hard-work people that I know. Her heart to help young girls build their self-esteem is endless. I thank God for giving her the vision to start such a wonderful program. The mentors are awesome, dedicated and have helped me over the years in a variety of areas. When I get older, I definitely will come back to let the girls know that they are worth something because that is what Diamond In The Rough taught me. My life has been transformed and empowered because of my experience at Diamond In The Rough. -Faith M.

This is a wonderful organization that far exceeds the expectations the community places on them. The members that make up this organization are praying, professional and profound women. Anyone that is blessed to come in contact with or become a part of DITR is impacted in a positive manner.

Diamonds in a Rough is a great mentoring program for our young girls.

I have been volunteering with the Diamond In The Rough Youth Development program for about 4 years.
I cannot begin to tell you how it has blessed me beyond my expectations. This organization has brought so
much awareness of what our young girls are facing physically, emotionally, mentally and spiritually. I have seen
the lives of these young girls transformed as a result of being a part of the Diamond In The Rough Family.
This organization has truly created a safe environment for the girls to express themselves and not feel judged
instead they receive love, care, support, protection and knowledge. Each girl that comes into the program and
truly engage and participate will definitely become a precious diamond and their lives will never be the same.
Mentor/Volunteer Ms. Lucille

Diamond In The Rough is by far the most rewarding organization that I've volunteered for. The Leaders of DITR are organized, creative and plan agendas that positively impact our young girls. Over the years they've partnered with other non-profits such as Partners Against Domestic Violence and local colleges to educate and empower our next generation of women. I look forward to volunteering every year!

Karli James

The DITR program is making a huge difference in society. The dedicated mentors/volunteers go above and beyond for the success of the program. Everyone in the program are passionate about promoting the mission. Diamond In The Rough is not only a fabulous nonprofit to be a part of but a family.

I found DITR several years ago searching for a debutante and it was the best thing I could've found for my daughter. She is currently going on her 4th year. She has learned to express herself better, social and people skills, understanding that God and family are first and knowing her worth. This is a program that continues to get better each year and I'm delighted to be involved. There are so many activities and ways a parent can stayed involved. It's a blessing! Thank you DITR for providing our girls with "Girl Power", the strength and knowledge of the different stages a girl goes through to womanhood.

I had been searching for a girl mentoring group for my daughter for over a year. After some not so good experiences, I saw a side-note on my Facebook page about Diamond In The Rough. I looked them up & after speaking with Ms. Audra McDaniel, signed my daughter up immediately. Ms. McDaniel was very patient, took time to answer my questions, and as a mother, shared some of her stories with me. September 2015, my daughter will be going into her 2nd year as a member and she loves it. I wanted her to have another support system ... other than myself and my husband ... where she could go to if she ever needed to. I wanted her to have a place where she can be surrounded by young ladies her age (13 at the time) or older who would most likely be experiencing the same things she was, or had gone through something similar. And she found that in DITR. The mentors in my daughter's cluster ... in my opinion ... showed sincere care and concern for the young ladies. My daughter expressed how comfortable she felt speaking with them. It doesn't feel at all to me like the organization is all about money. Field trips are offered, both free and some we have to pay ~> and I'm fine with that. From what I see, the organization is always pushing FAMILY. I love what Ms. Nicole Steele, Ms. Audra McDaniel and the rest of the DITR family are doing, and I hope they continue. For what the organization means to my daughter, it definitely gets my support. In fact, 2 days ago I recommended it to another friend. And just from reading the website, she registered her daughter and they are both excited to get started this September 2015. May this organization continue its mission. Bless ~ Pittman

Diamond In the Rough is one of the best non profit organizations I have ever been apart of. If I could get every girl apart of this youth empowerment group I definitely would. I started out in 6th grade insecure , didn't really know my purpose and afraid to come out. This organization has helped me with self empowerment, my confidence and knowing I have a purpose. I used to be the girl in the back, didn't say much bad attitude and didn't want to ever speak out. But now I am a active member of Diamond In The Rough and I am the president of the Core Leadership group in Diamond In The Rough.

I begin mentoring five years ago at DITR. Since I have been serving as a Mentor and Volunteer at DITR, it has completed changed my life. My professional background is in IT(Masters in Information Technology Management) since my involvement in mentoring; I'm currently back in school getting a BA in Social Services with a minor in Behavior Development. Diamond in the Rough is a great organization that really really helps and gives back to our girls(leaders of tomorrow).

Diamonds In the Rough (DITR) is an excellent faith based organization that has done a great deal for young women in our community. They have been mentoring and teaching girls about how to become the best woman they can be for over 10 years. It is a great privilege to work with and support Diamonds in the Rough.

Why I volunteer for and support Diamond In The Rough is simple we do GREAT things for ALL, especially Girls! I just love the positive and helpful volunteers whom I've had the pleasure to work with. This is a supportive organization that sticks by its mission which is to save one child, one family, one communty at a time.
You Go Diamond in the Rough!

Any group that is working this hard and long to support our young people can only be commended. I visited their location and was more than pleased with the level of organization and passion I observed. Great job guys. Our young people will be better for you being around.

Joan Lloyd-Granston

DITR is a great organization. I've seen young girls bloom into beautiful ladies. This program has a lot of activities, training and support to help them become great leaders.

I participated in the Healthy Girl - Healthy World Summit with Diamond in the Rough, Inc, and I was immediately impressed by this organization's professionalism and structure. The young women who were a part of the Core team who helped escort the facilitators to their sessions were so well-groomed and classy. They had a deep knowledge of who they were as young women, they were committed to community service and already had their post-highschool plans underway. Diamond in the Rough is doing an excellent job at fulfilling their mission and vision. I was ecstatic to be a part of this phenomenal organization!

Diamond in the Rough (DITR) youth development organization is an anchor and asset to the community in which they serve. As the executive director of The Treasure Box School of Etiquette, I am in awe by the level of excellence in programming that DITR coordinates to empower 21st Century Learners. I am always honored to serve as a facilitator and collaborate with Nicole Steele and staff. ~ Rhonda Hudson

Diamond In The Rough is the BEST nonprofit organization I have every worked with!!! I have been a Mentor with DITR for about 8 years now and I wouldn't have it any other way!!!! Its an AMAZING feeling to see young girls of different ages, races, and walks of life who life's get and have changed after joining DITR. It's a place of comfort, confidence, loving, and understanding! We're not just an organization but a FAMILY ..... "Transforming the world . . . One child, one family, one community at a time". 

This is a wonderful mentoring program for young girls. I recommend all young girls attend if possible. This program offers inspiration, creativity and confidence to these girls. I am a volunteer in this program and I love every moment I spend with the girls, this is a awesome and much needed program.

I was a supporter of DITR nine years before accepting the position as Finance Chair on the Board. DITR is not just about the young girls, but it's about families. Nicole and the awesome volunteers at DITR are faithful, fearless, full of integrity and very professional! I am proud to be part of an organization that is dedicated to changing the world....one child, one family, one community at a time.

Diamond in the Rough is an exceptional organization that offers top-notch mentoring and student development services to young girls in the Atlanta metropolitan area. I have attended several DITR events both as a guest and as an expert. Each event exceeds my expectations. Most recently, I served as a Presenter at the "Healthy Girl - Healthy World Youth Summit" at Emory University. It was refreshing to see young leaders welcoming guests and visitors at the registration desk. The event was a complete success because of the dedication of the volunteers, the mentees, and the dynamic leadership of Ms. Nicole Steele. I will continue to support this organization for years to come because of the great work that is exemplified.

Dr. Erica L. Payne,
CEO/Founder
Deafinite Pathways Inc.
www.deafpath.org

One of the best non-profits in the world by far. I have been in the program now for about 9 years and i have no regrets. You should definitely get involved. EXCELLENT ORGANIZATION.

My daughter was selected to participate in DITR summer program, Diamond University. The application/selection process was rigorous, but well worth it. My 11-year old was a bit skeptical at first about spending her summer days in a 'program', but soon found it to be one the best experiences of her young life. Diamond University brought in professionals on a daily basis to speak with the girls-only group about careers in science, engineering, and other relevant topics. The girls were given leadership opportunities throughout the camp and even 'home-work' assignments to keep their brains fresh during the summer. Field trip experiences included meeting executives at the headquarters of Chik-fil-a and Coca- Cola. The month long camp went quickly and my daughter is already looking forward to next year. I appreciate the structure, planning, and attitudes of those involved with DITR.