If you are going to make a difference in someone’s life, whether they are from the inner city or otherwise, you must be committed. Since 1988, we have been determined to do whatever it takes to make a difference in the inner city. This determination only comes through commitment. Giving up is not an option, and it never has been for us. Clay, Barbara and the staff have decided to commit to three things.
We are committed to:
The People. Our first priority is to the people we serve. They are why we do what we do. We decided a long time ago, that no matter what problems we encounter, we will be committed to the people. We do everything we can to give the people tools to succeed. From spending time at people’s homes, to bringing them food, or having lunch with a struggling mom or teenager, people come first at Dallas Metro Dream Center.
The Price. It isn’t easy working in the inner city. We face things on a daily basis that most cannot even imagine. We have witnessed shoot outs, drive bys, gang violence, prostitution, domestic abuse… We have been harassed, threatened and ordered to leave, and our properties broken into. We have seen children and teens that we have made a heavy investment in, leave us and walk down a dangerous life path. We realize that the rewards are small. We realize that it is expensive, both financially and effort wise. It is a huge investment. We also know while the short term rewards aren’t always apparent, the long term return is immeasurable. Quitting is not on our agenda. We have been taught, “You can quit every night, as long as you show up for work the next day.”
The Potential. Because we have been committed to the people since the late ‘80s, we have seen children grow into successful adults, families restored, and even crime in neighborhoods reduced. We see in every man, woman and child the potential to become something great. We know from experience that when we help change a life, they in turn, change their world.