ABOUT US

The program originally was created as an intervention study to reduce recidivism rates. It produced stunning results topping the 80th percentile. The study was orchestrated in a moderate-high risk residential facility contracted through the department of Juvenile Justice. Due to its effectiveness, it grew into a 2x weekly engagement consisting of our Director Derrick Collins and 10 high risk youth that were 6 months from being released. The focus was to decrease criminal behavior, increase conflict resolution, develop coping skills, and developing personal growth. Results showed that the youth were adequately prepared for their negative home environments and were able to sustain the 6 month mark once being released. Today the program has transformed into a community based population rather than in a residential setting. This will allow a less restricted, and regulated environment where youth will emcompasses a variety of key mental health techniques as well as hands on educational experiences. While creating a stable platform, we also inspire the youth to discover their strengths through personal & family growth activities. Mr. and Ms. Mentoring educates & advocates for the youth in educating them on community resources & tools. We support local businesses, and engage in community service.

Meet the Staff

Derrick Collins El

CEO- Founder

Derrick Collins El is a Mental Health Counselor that has serviced a variety of populations over the past 8 years. Youth being his passion, he has focused on adolescents ranging from ages 7 to 18. His engagement particularly with At- Risk males began at the moderate to high risk residential level, where he gained valuable direction working at the largest, and most accredited organizations in the Volusia County Area. His experience ranges in disorders such as severe depression, anxiety ,autism, adjustment, anger, ADHD, and conduct disorders. He also has worked heavily in the foster care system, where he has serviced low income, high crime, and drug infested environments. Still producing several successful family reunifications and adoptions. Derrick Received his Masters in Social work from the University of Central Florida, and also his Bachelors of Science in Education from Bethune Cookman University. Derrick is partner & owner of Stress & Anxiety Center a private practice started by his father Milton Collins El in 2003. Derrick is working towards becoming Clinically licensed and is a registered intern with the state. He is also completing his Certification in Addictions (CAP)

Quentin Mincy

Lead Mentor

The Mr. and Mrs. Mentoring Programs welcome our newest Mentor Mr. Quentin Mincy! Mr. Mincy is an Alumnus of GREAT Bethune Cookman University hailing from the beautiful city of Miami Florida. With a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology and Master of Science degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, Mr. Mincy serves the community of Volusia County in numerous ways. Quentin is a youth counselor with the Stress and Anxiety Center as well as a Consulting Clinician with Bay Area Youth Services Inc. Quentin is dedicated to serving his community by being an active member of several organizations, which include, Phi Beta Sigma, a fraternity with active involvement in the community that strives to connect youth and collegians with opportunities to engage as servant leaders, Progressive Black Men Inc., whose purpose is to promote positive images of African American Men and Gamma Beta Chi Service Fraternity, which focus on community service initiatives to mentor high school men.

Cori Denson

Lead Mentor

Cori Denson is the current 2017-2018 Teacher of the year at Highlands Elementary school. He is a songwriter, who obtained his Bachelors in Music Technology at Bethune Cookman University. While also obtaining his masters in Entertainment Business at Full Sail University. Cori is the founder of the Denson Gives back food Drive and Toys for the Community. Cori is from Delray Beach, Fl, and loves giving back to the community. In addition to his food and toy drives, he is also the assistant youth minister at his church. There he teaches children the necessary skills to tackle the many issues of life

Amaya Albury

Lead Mentor

Amaya is born and raised in Daytona Beach, she has deep roots and an incredible passion to serve the community she loves so dearly.

Amaya has always been committed to education, diversity and economic empowerment in the Volusia County Region and with that she brings a wealth of experience resources and relationships. Born to an immigrant from Spain, she learned at an early age the value of integrity, hard work, entrepreneurship and generosity.

Heavily involved in empowering her community, Amaya, in addition to being a Realtor, is also the Founder of Successful Employment, a Florida Non Profit supporting youth and adults with disabilities.

Amaya is committed and passionate about the future of her community and has invested into at risk youth through mentoring, advocacy and training.

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