Kashia

Things stay real around here almost continually.

Since 2000, Central Dallas Ministries has been operating what we call our "After School Academy." The after school, exploratory learning and homework center is nestled right in the middle of the Turner Courts community in South Dallas.

If you've been here over the last week, you've seen several photographs of this neighborhood, a community in real crisis. If you haven't seen the photos, I suggest you run back through my recent posts to catch a glimpse.

To be frank, the neighborhood is about as bad as it gets for Dallas.

Average annual family income is at or below $10,000. The housing stock is worse than deplorable. Crime is a real problem, especially the violent kind that so often accompanies drug use and trade.

Tough, tough neighborhood. Hard place for little children to grow up and maintain hope.

Kashia is a 9-year old girl who is enrolled the After School Academy,

Click twice on the "play" button below to watch her story! I think you will be impressed and inspired.