Message from our Founder

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When we opened the doors to DSCC, our vision was simple yet powerful: to create a safe, welcoming space where young people and their families could find hope, support, and opportunity. Growing up in Donna Street myself, I witnessed firsthand the struggles of food scarcity, limited resources, crimes, gangs, and barriers to technology. I also saw the incredible resilience, creativity, and potential that exists when people are given the chance to thrive.

This center is more than just a building, it is a hub of growth, learning, and connection. From educational programs and technology access to cultural events and family support services, every initiative we offer is designed to nurture the whole person. Our goal is to ensure that each young individual feels valued, empowered, and equipped to build a brighter future.

Together, with the dedication of our staff, volunteers, and community partners, we are turning challenges into opportunities. I am deeply grateful for the continued support that makes this mission possible, and I look forward to the many ways we will keep enriching lives and strengthening our community.

With gratitude,

Robert Strawder Jr.

Board of Directors

Sondra Cosgrove

Board President

Sondra Cosgrove has been a Las Vegas resident since 1986 and is a history professor and the Executive Director of Vote Nevada, a local nonprofit. Sondra received a Ph.D. from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, with areas of specialization in the U.S. West, Native American History, and Latin America. Currently, Sondra is a full-time professor at the College of Southern Nevada and is actively involved in a wide range of college service, such as working with the Women’s Alliance. As the Executive Director of the nonpartisan Vote Nevada Sondra engages in community outreach and civic empowerment as well as advocacy for civil rights.

Lisa Mayo-DeRiso

Board Vice President

Established in 1992, Mayo & Associates is a Las Vegas based consulting firm specializing in Integrated Marketing Communications; business development, marketing, public relations, and community outreach consulting. In addition, we provide consulting services in, strategic planning, and relationship consult, in both private and public sectors. Board Member American Red Cross (2003 to 2006), Co-founder Protectors of Tule Springs (2005 to 2015), Co-Founder Save Red Rock (2003 to 2015), Founder, Northwest Residents for Responsible Growth (2008 to present); Board Member Nevada Conservation League (2007-2009), Open Space Advisory Committee (2009); Board Member Lili Claire Foundation (2004 to 2009); Scenic Nevada Board (2009 to 2014); Scenic Nevada Board Advisor (2015 to present); Board Member and Vice Chairman USO Las Vegas; (2013 to 2019);; Board Member Variety Learning Center (2016 to 2018); Task Force Member “Break Free CCSD” (2016 - present); Founding Board Member Citizens Task Force for Voter Rights (2014 to present); Member Vegas Valley Rim Trail; 4 (2010 to 2014); Board Member Power 2 Parent (2014 to 2017); Member Red Rock Trails Committee (2018-present); Board Member Battle Born Conservative Women’s PAC (2018); Co-Founder and Member NevadansCAN (2016 to present); Bonanza High School Organizational Team (SOT) Member (2015 to present); Scenic Nevada Advisory Board 2000-present; Director of Communications Awareness Is Prevention 2020-present; Co-founder Community Schools Initiative 2020-present; Donna Street Community Center Inc, Secretary 2021-present.

Tequila Hall

Board Secretary

Tequila Rose Hall is a Licensed Social Worker in the state of Mississippi and Nevada. She first obtained a an Associate’s Degree in Human Service from Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College. She graduated from USM with a Bachelor degree in Social Work. Ms. Hall also obtained her Master’s Degree in Social work with honors from the University of Southern Mississippi. She was employed with the Mississippi Child Protection Agency for 10 years where she held various positions. While employed at CPS Tequila served on the Governor’s Task Force for Human Trafficking. She also supervised a program which was, Rescued 100 which was a faith based program that recruited foster homes. She has served on the board for Hancock County Housing Authority. She also was a member of the Hancock County Human Resource Agency which would oversee daycares, Senior Citizen Centers and the Meals on Wheels program.Tequila also has served as a ball captain, parade captain and Vice President for the Krew of Diamonds and the Krew of Real People. She was one of the organizers for the only Juneteenth Celebration in Hancock County. Ms Hall was also one of the organize Tequila is a member of the National Association of Social Workers. Tequila is currently employed as a Social Worker with the school district. She is very excited to be a part of the Donna Street Community Center Board of Directors.

Dr. Douglas L. Garner

Board Member

Education:

Crenshaw H. S. Los Angeles California (1971). Bachelor of .Science, Kinesiology California State University Hayward (1978). Teacher Education Program, California State University Hayward (1979). Master’s in Education, University of Nevada Las Vegas (2004). Doctor of Philosophy, Department of Cognitive Development and Clinical Studies, University of Nevada Las Vegas.

Two-time N.C.A.A National Triple-Jump Champion (1978-1979).

4th Place Long-Jump N.C.A.A National Championships (1979).

Northern California Athlete of the Year (1980).

Runner-up Track and Field Congress National Championships.

Two Time Olympic Trials Finalist (1980 & 1984).

Induction into the Athletic Hall of Fame (1990 & 2016).

Served as Athletes Liaison for U.S.A Track and Field (1988-1996).

Aariel Williams

Board Member

Aariel values the power of community and education to help create positive change.

After graduating from Culver City High School, Aariel moved to Austin, Texas to attend St. Edward’s University where she graduated with her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Minor in Political Science. In May 2021, she obtained her Juris Doctorate from University of Las Vegas, Nevada - William S. Boyd School of Law.

Officer Arnold Parker

Board Member

PO 2 Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department.

Community and LVMPD Involvement

LVMPD Explores Program Advisor (2012 – 2020)
(MACTAC) Challenge (2012 – 2015)
Every 15 Minutes, Drinking and Driving Program (2012-2015)
Gang Unit POWER Football Clinic (2014)
Pearson Community Center Youth Fitness & Nutrition training (July 2015)
Hope for Prisoners Mentor Program (2013 – Present)
Dropout Recovery Program (2012 – 2015)
4 Corners Traffic Initiative (2012)
All American Youth Football Camp/Combine (2014 – 2022)
Police Athletic League (2014 – 2022)
Operation Graduation Leadership Program (2019- Present)
Hip Hop Entrepreneurship Program (2021 - Present)
Law Enforcement Empowerment Athletic Program (2022-Present)

Marquez Eagles

Board Member

Over 11 years of experience working in community development, operations management, and education. His career has been marked by a consistent commitment to improving the lives of those around him, whether through his role as a Director of Operations or his work within the school district. As Director of Operations at various organizations, MarQuez has been instrumental in streamlining processes, increasing efficiency, and fostering an environment where staff and community members alike can thrive. His leadership has been pivotal in driving initiatives that enhance community engagement and support educational outcomes. MarQuez's ability to manage complex projects, coupled with his strategic vision, has led to significant improvements in the operations he oversees. He is a man of faith, with a deep love for his church, where he is an active and committed member. Family is at the heart of everything MarQuez does, providing him with the strength and inspiration to pursue his professional goals. Additionally, his love for music adds a creative and joyful dimension to his life, offering him a way to connect with others and express his passion. In all his endeavors, MarQuez Strawder-Eagles exemplifies dedication, compassion, and excellence. His leadership and commitment to service continue to make a positive impact on his community, the organizations he leads, and the lives of those he touches.