As the CEO/Founder of Str8Up Employment and Mentor Services,  Dashaan experienced first hand the complexities of navigating life once aging out of the child welfare system.  After aging out of the New Jersey Child Welfare system, Dashaan started college at Kean University in Union NJ. Dashaan faced barriers such as homelessness, food insecurity, legal issues, and minimal family support. While battling, he was able to maintain enough focus and resilience to graduate with a major in Sociology and a minor in Criminal Justice. Immediately, Dashaan began working with various nonprofits focused on youth in group placements, finding employment for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD/DD), violence reduction, and harm reduction initiatives. Dashaan is recognized as a strong advocate for New Jersey youth who are nearing the age of aging out of the child welfare system. 

In 2023, Dashaan founded Str8Up Employment Services with a profound commitment to addressing the urgent needs of youth aging out of New Jersey’s child welfare system. Recognizing the significant challenges these young individuals face as they transition into adulthood, Dashaan aimed to create a supportive framework that empowers them to build stable and fulfilling lives. Many of these youth encounter barriers such as homelessness and food insecurity, often stemming from unemployment or underemployment. By focusing on employment readiness and career development, Str8Up seeks to provide practical solutions to help these young adults break the cycle of disadvantage.

Understanding that the journey to independence can be overwhelming, Dashaan incorporated a trauma-informed approach into Str8Up's mission. This methodology recognizes the unique experiences and challenges faced by these youth, creating a safe and supportive environment where they can openly discuss their struggles and aspirations. By prioritizing emotional and psychological well-being, Str8Up enables young people to address their past traumas while equipping them with essential life skills and resources needed for successful employment. This holistic approach not only addresses immediate barriers but also fosters resilience and personal growth.

At the heart of Str8Up's vision is the belief that every young person deserves the opportunity to thrive. By providing targeted career assessments, resume development, and weekly support sessions, the organization aims to encourage youth to take ownership of their futures. Participants are guided through the job search process, helping them to identify their strengths and interests while building the confidence needed to navigate the workforce. Dashaan’s lived experience fuels the organization’s grassroots approach, ensuring that services are relevant, relatable, and tailored to the unique needs of each individual.

As Str8Up continues to grow, it aims to expand its partnerships with community organizations to enhance its reach and effectiveness. By collaborating with local resources, Str8Up can offer comprehensive support that addresses not only employment but also housing, education, and mental health services. Ultimately, Dashaan’s vision is to create a strong network of support that uplifts youth involved in the child welfare system as well as their families helping them transition smoothly into adulthood and break free from the cycles of poverty and instability. Through Str8Up Employment Services, the future is brighter for these young individuals, as they gain the skills and support necessary to create fulfilling lives and careers.​

​​