Opportunities for Deserving Children

Opportunities for Deserving Children, Inc. (OFDC) is committed to fostering a culture of prevention and healing among children healing from communities affected by mass incarceration and gun violence in the Metro Washington D.C. area. Our programs and services are dedicated to addressing and mitigating the long-term risks associated with exposure to adverse childhood experiences resulting from maternal and paternal incarceration and gun violence. OFDC is dedicated to creating a society where each child can thrive in all areas of life, despite their exposure to circumstances that statistically hold them back from their full potential.

OFDC offers a trauma informed, two generational approach to children who are survivors, victims and at risk of community gun violence accompanied with parents who are formerly or currently incarcerated. This work is deeply personal to the founders and staff of OFDC, who grew up in these communities and understand how unsafe and hindering this environment can be to achieving a high quality, stable lifestyle.  Our programs focus on building a child’s confidence, equipping them with the skills to not let their circumstances define their future. We offer nutrition education and courses, physical activity education, and mind-body health tactics, aiding children and their parents to healthier eating habits and lifestyle. OFDC infuses our programming with healthy coping skills, and the ability to face adversity and thrive in their environment.

Our Following programs are the following:

1.Futures in Tech Initiative which offers youth access to technical education and emerging technologies through immersive learning experiences.

2. “I'm Still Here" program 

I AM STILL HERE focuses on character building activities, confidence building for black and brown children and, and providing health coping mechanisms as they balance either the integration or absence of a formerly incarcerated parent. 

3.OFDC's pre-work force development program in partnership with the Museum DC retail store and pending retail stores.

4.Rolling Away from Violence" is a preventative- focused program that reduces community gun violence.