Since 1972, Black men have faced the highest levels of unemployment, underemployment, and low-wage jobs in the United States. We envision a world in which every young Black man has access to career pathways that lead to personal growth and economic mobility.
DSS is an evidence-obsessed nonprofit organization providing transformative professional development experiences to young Black men 16 through 24 in Durham.
As of December 2022, 50% of Black male youth in the US are currently underemployed or unemployed.
Since 2020, young men have had the lowest national labor force participation rate of all genders and races.
Nearly 90% of North Carolina employers report vacant positions in the past 12 months.
In 2023, 81% of employers experienced difficult hiring within the past 12 months, a 60% increase from 2019.
We provide access to quality, FREE programs that teach practical business education, expand networks, and enhance economic wellbeing. Since 2019, we've seen results.
of our alumni report finding new, actionable tools for their careers
of our youth report increased clarity on their professional goals
of our young men have participated in more than one DSS program
hours of instruction led by young professionals with lived experience
Join us in congratulating the Summit Scholars Class of 2024, an outstanding cohort of 20 young men who accelerated their professional development over twelve weeks with us.
Special thank you to our partner and program sponsor, Fidelity Investments, for hosting our graduates, families, and extended guests.
“This was the opportunity I has been looking for. I expected the traditional experience, but what I got was different. It was holistic and engaging. DSS made me better."
Patric, Class of 2022
“I don't think you can sit in our circle and not grow. I have a new job, a better picture of what I want to do in life, and a different mindset that there isn't a limit to success."
Jordon, Class of 2022
“Before DSS, I was lost and confused. I wanted to have a good future, but didn't know where to start or what to research. You feel welcomed here."
David, Class of 2023
READ OUR FOUNDER'S STORY
Derek Rhodes was a White House intern when Trayvon Martin was murdered. As a young, Black man from Durham, he knew that his journey to the White House and subsequently to leadership roles through corporate America was far too rare. So, three months into his dream job as Microsoft's Chief of Staff, he quit to scale the organization he founded as a one-day conference in 2019.
Our Founders and Scholars Class of 2023 convened for our Alumni Reunion in Washington, D.C. The trip from the Bull City included a full day tour at the Smithsonian Museum of African American History, lunch and a visit at the National's Harbor hearing from a top leader in the restaurant and tourism industry, CEO Kevin Lee, and a networking dinner at Georgia Brown's Restaurant.
We're headed to North Carolina's premeir networking event for minority business leaders, the Executive Networking Conference (ENC) 2024. Over three days, alumni will attend and participate in sessions on economic development, digital divide, and build their network of professional mentors. We are thrilled to partner with the National Institute for Minority Economic Development to offer this three-day experience at no-cost to our youth.
Applications are now open to join our flagship Summit Scholars program, a twelve-week career development accelerator that prepares you for careers and internships with leading employers. The program includes required in-person, weekly cohort meetings, site visits and tours with local employers, invitations to special events and conferences, and dedicated Success Coaches to support your journey. Apply by 9/1 at 11:59PM.
Join our current class of Scholars, coaches, and extended staff for Wing Night at Durham Beer Garden, where you'll learn more about our program, meet new peers, and see us in action before joining!
1/25/25 - Annual Community Gala Write a description for this list item and include information that will interest site visitors. For example, you may want to describe a team member's experience, what makes a product special, or a unique service that you offer.
Item LinkWhen it comes to social justice, we make sure these companies do more than just talk or change their profile pictures. As a recognized leader locally and nationally, we are proud to work with companies of all sizes (as well as governments, and educational institutions) to provide operational and strategic guidance proven to improve recruiting, hiring, and retention.
Our Scholars' experiences through our programs and the pathways they follow thereafter will enable them to be leaders of consequence in their respective fields.
888-588-4390
outreach@dssnc.org
727 N. Mangum Street, Suite 200
Durham, NC 27701