Testimonials
"Collaborative Solutions for Communities (CSC) transformed my life and countless others in our community. When I was a struggling young mother surrounded by violence, CSC's team saw potential in me that I couldn’t see in myself. Through their parenting classes, GED program, and mentorship, I found the confidence to change my life and inspire others to do the same."
"Their unwavering commitment to youth and families goes beyond programs; it’s about genuine care and support. Today, I am proud to be a community leader, and I owe so much to CSC for giving me the tools, guidance, and opportunities to build a brighter future. CSC doesn’t just change lives—they save them."
Jasmin Benab
Former CSC Youth Violence Coordinator and Current Director of Community Outreach in the Mayor’s Office
"Collaborative Solutions for Communities (CSC) gave me the support I never knew I needed. Growing up surrounded by gang violence, I felt afraid and alone. But when I met Jasmin and the CSC team, everything changed. They didn’t see me as just another troubled teen—they saw my potential and cared about my future."
"Through programs like violence prevention, community events, and advocacy, CSC showed me a different path. They never gave up on me, even when I stumbled. Because of CSC, I found my voice, my confidence, and a purpose. Today, I’m proud to work alongside my mentor, helping others find hope and opportunities just like I did. CSC is proof that with guidance, trust, and support, transformation is possible."
Yamileth Escobar
Former CSC Participant and Current Ward 4 Liaison in the Mayor’s Office
"The Cosmic Wolves program at Collaborative Solutions for Communities (CSC) completely changed my high school experience and set me on a path for success. During the pandemic, life felt overwhelming and isolating, but soccer gave me purpose and connection. The program didn’t just teach me about the game—it taught me leadership, anger management, and how to stay focused on my goals."
"The support and structure from CSC gave me a safe space to grow, meet new people, and stay on track for my future. Today, as a college student at George Washington University, I look back on my time with the Cosmic Wolves as a key part of my development.
"Thank you, CSC, for giving me the tools and opportunities to succeed!"
Andy Amaya
Cosmic Wolves Participant and Current College Student
"Collaborative Solutions for Communities (CSC) has been my anchor through the hardest times of my life. When I lost my son to senseless violence, CSC was there, providing unwavering support and helping me rebuild my life for the sake of my two young daughters."
"Through CSC, I found healing by starting a parent support group, Crossing the Line, where I could connect with other grieving mothers and bring awareness to violence in our community. Helping others gave me the strength to keep going, and when it felt overwhelming, Ms. Penny and the CSC team were always there to lift me up."
"Eventually, CSC gave me the opportunity to join their staff, and it felt like my prayers had been answered. Over the past decade, I’ve had the privilege of working on programs like Successful Reentry, Family Rehousing Stabilization, and now managing the Truancy Program. Being part of CSC has allowed me to make a difference in the lives of others, just as they made a difference in mine."
"CSC isn’t just an organization—it’s a family that changes lives, and I’m forever grateful to be part of it."
Loleata Griffin
CSC Truancy Program Manager and Former Client
"I first connected with CSC while in high school through the Columbia Heights Youth Soccer League. The support and opportunities provided by CSC kept me and my friends engaged and motivated. Ms. Penny's generosity ensured we could continue playing throughout the year, which had a significant impact on our lives. In 2015, I joined CSC as a consultant to manage a year-round soccer program and eventually transitioned into a full-time role. It's been incredibly rewarding to watch the positive influence we've had on countless kids over the years. CSC has not only shaped my career but also my commitment to giving back to the community. I am thrilled to continue this journey as a supervisor for the Safe Passage Program. I only wish we could do even more for our youth."
Rubio Gomez
Supervisor, Safe Passage Program; Coach, Cosmic Wolves
"Returning to D.C. after my professional soccer career in Europe, I was inspired to join CSC again and give back to the community that supported me during my youth. As a program coordinator, I have the opportunity to work with kids aged 11 to 17 through our 'Share Some Love' initiative. It's incredibly fulfilling to help them feel heard and address their challenges. Seeing them transform from hurt and angry to joyful and hopeful is the real power of CSC. I'm proud to be part of such a transformative organization."
Josselin Possian
Former Program Coordinator; Former Coach, Cosmic Wolves
Alvin Abbott’s experience in the Summer Enrichment Program at Collaborative Solutions for Communities (CSC) truly exemplifies the impact of investing in young potential. As a rising seventh grader, Alvin dove into the entrepreneurship course with enthusiasm, creating a successful t-shirt business with superhero patches. His shirts sold out quickly, and the skills he gained from the program have instilled in him a strong sense of confidence and entrepreneurial spirit.
"The entrepreneurship class was great!" says Alvin. "I got to make new friends and learn new things. I feel like I have the skills to do so much now, and I’m excited to keep making money so I can help provide for my family."
Alvin’s journey in the program has helped him not only develop practical business skills but also foster a belief in his abilities. His story is a testament to the transformative power of CSC's youth programs, and we look forward to supporting him and other participants as they continue to grow and thrive.
Alvin Abbott
Summer Enrichment Program, Collaborative Solutions for Communities
Ernesto Castillo Estrada’s experience with CSC’s Cosmic Wolves soccer program highlights the profound impact of the organization’s commitment to youth development. Having immigrated from Honduras, Ernesto found a sense of belonging and purpose through the program, which provided him with the opportunity to pursue his love for soccer while steering clear of negative influences.
"The program helped me in many different ways — avoiding negative influences, allowing me to make new friends, and giving me time to dedicate to a sport I love to play," shares Ernesto. "While I was finishing high school, it provided a good distraction from things that could have gotten me into trouble."
Ernesto’s story is a powerful reminder of the importance of providing young people with safe spaces to grow and develop, both on and off the field. CSC’s commitment to making such opportunities accessible to all is truly transforming lives.
Ernesto Castillo Estrada
Cosmic Wolves Soccer Program, Collaborative Solutions for Communities
Kendrea Brooks' experience with CSC’s Trauma, Addictions, Mental Health, and Recovery (TAMAR) program is a powerful example of transformation and healing. Serving a 60-month sentence for aggravated assault, Kendrea entered the program with a desire to better understand and manage her emotions. Through TAMAR, she learned valuable coping mechanisms for controlling her anger and found strength in the shared experiences of the other women in the program.
“The program taught me how to control my anger and introduced me to different coping mechanisms,” Kendrea explains. “Knowing that all the other women in the program were going through similar things made it easier for us to open up to each other. I always found myself wishing the sessions could last longer!”
Kendrea has since channeled the lessons she learned into creating a stable and productive future, from securing housing and managing finances to pursuing a tattoo artist license. Her journey with TAMAR has not only impacted her personal growth but has also opened new doors for her future.
Kendrea Brooks
TAMAR Program, Collaborative Solutions for Communities
Jamael McLeod’s experience with CSC’s Trauma, Addictions, Mental Health, and Recovery (TAMAR) program highlights the empowering impact of community and self-reflection. After encountering difficulties in 2021, Jamael found the support she needed through TAMAR and CSC’s Rapid Rehousing Program. The program provided her with the tools to express herself without fear of judgment and strengthened her confidence in pursuing her goals.
“The TAMAR program gave me the confidence to express myself to the other women without feeling judged,” says Jamael. “Being in this group and connected to the girl power it fosters was wonderful and has definitely helped set me on the right path.”
With the support of CSC, Jamael recently completed her phlebotomy certification and is now pursuing further studies in electrocardiogram (EKG) to prepare for a successful career in the medical field.
Jamael McLeod
TAMAR Program, Collaborative Solutions for Communities
Ginger Carlin’s journey through CSC’s Success in Reentry (SIR) program is a testament to the transformative power of support and perseverance. After serving 11 months of a 36-month sentence, Ginger relied on the program to rebuild her life and regain her footing.
“CSC helped me get a laptop, search for an apartment, and approach decisions with the right mindset,” Ginger shares. “Ms. Rosie has been instrumental in every aspect of my world—holding my hand, pushing me forward, and reassuring me by saying, ‘You’re okay! You can do this!’ I love her so much; she’s never let me down.”
Now, Ginger is thriving as a pre-apprentice electrician in a five-year program, with ambitious long-term goals of homeownership and continued success in her field. With the support of SIR and her determination, she’s proving that anything is possible, one step at a time.
