Hey everyone! My name is Garine Dalce! I am a first generation Haitian American and I understand the true meaning of not having a hand out. My family arrived in this country, from Haiti with nothing but their earnest work ethic; which helped them create the “American Dream”. As they provided opportunities for me to earn an education, they instilled values of paying it forward with humility.

As they worked, they always showed what it meant to not only build but also how to give back to the family that still lived in Haiti. it was from this that I learned to dig a bit deeper and give much more. So, I ask, how could I not be here? There is so much work to be done for mankind and I have accepted the challenge to make a difference as my parents have. They have touched many lives and I will follow in their footsteps.

With humility and hard work, I accepted the challenge of serving as the Deputy Director of Youth and Family Programs at the Department of Youth and Rehabilitation Services. This position allowed me to make positive changes in my community and put forth policies that focused on our current human service systems/principles. Specifically, the epidemics affecting our low-income families’ health, education, and freedom - the same country my family fought to live in and raise their children. This oxymoron has shaped my goal of equipping these families, served by DYRS, to rely less on institutional care and to invest more into community support and family advocacy. 

My passion for education and community engagement does not stop here. I currently serve on the Board of Directors for Victorious Attitudes for Every Day Life (VAEL).  VAEL is an educational non-profit organization, specializing in human development. VAEL assists youth in identifying their strengths and talents while cultivating invaluable life skills crucial for living their best life now as a contributing member of society. Since its inception in 2006, VAEL has partnered with Baltimore City Public Schools and numerous Baltimore City Agencies; training over 1,900 youth Baltimore City Students -100 Spanish Speaking.

As an appointed member of the Mayor’s Advisory Committee on Child Abuse and Neglect., I serve on the multidisciplinary task force for the Children’s Justice Act Grants and the Child Abuse Prevention and Treatment.  I recommend strategic approaches to improve coordination of services among the public agencies responsible for the provision of child welfare services. I meet with agency executives to formalize a strategic plan that would benefit the citizens of the District of Columbia. 

I hold a Bachelor’s degree in psychology and a Master’s in Social Work and Business Administration. My hope is to be a part of the decision making regarding policies that affect those who may not have a voice. In doing so, I’ve changed my own narrative from a corporate mogul to an independent business maven. I help women and men find, utilize and develop their voice by gaining better health habits and integral business skills that can be used on a daily basis. I have been able to partner with an amazing company, Total Life Changes, to help set the standard on what it truly means to give others a hand up and not a hand out.

Sometimes I wonder how I ended up here today. I know that I am supposed be here because of the issues that our community faces. What do I mean, you ask? It is truly my duty as I walk my path that my hand reaches out to others and takes them along with me. The “work” is bigger than me and frankly it isn’t about me but I know I have been granted strengths and talents which must be used for the greater good.