Our History
Finding Loss After A Loss….

ABOUT US

On the fateful day of July 4, 1996, Dean J. Samuel's promising life was cut short at the age of 22, just five months away from embracing fatherhood. The abrupt tragedy left an indelible mark on his family, casting a shadow of grief. However, when Dean's son entered the world, he brought not only joy but also the cherished echoes of his late father.

Despite the love, support, and guidance surrounding him, Dean's namesake couldn't escape the void left by his father's absence. This void became a stumbling block in his journey, prompting the realization that the family, despite their best efforts, couldn't shield him from the pain of loss. Like many others in similar situations, he needed to find healthy ways to navigate this heartbreaking reality.

From this realization emerged our foundation—a beacon of hope amidst suffering. We've united to not only help youth who have violently lost loved ones survive but, more importantly, to empower them to thrive. Our mission is to guide them in discovering the unique gifts within, unlocking hidden treasures that infuse life with hope and purpose beyond the pain.

The death of a loved one poses unique challenges for a child, with reactions varying based on individual characteristics such as life experience, age, personality, and coping abilities. Some may internalize their struggles, manifesting as anxiety or withdrawal, while others might externalize, resorting to aggression as a misguided expression of power.

Understanding the intergenerational cycle of violence, our foundation emphasizes early intervention. Research underscores the importance of addressing the needs of children exposed to or victimized by community violence, breaking the cycle and steering them away from potential future hardships.

Join us in rewriting the narratives of these resilient youth, offering them not just survival but the tools to thrive in the face of adversity. Together, we can turn tragedy into triumph and sow seeds of hope for a brighter tomorrow.

MISSION

IDYD offers victim advocacy, grief support, and case management to families and children who have lost a loved one to violence.

 VISION

We have a dream that this world finds the cure to pathological threats against the community, families, and children.

We have a dream that young people will no longer be predisposed to trauma and stress caused by early exposure to violence.

We have a dream to see generational cycles of recurring violent behaviors broken, childhood PTSD canceled and the colorful imagination of a child beautify the darkness in this world.