At Sasha Bruce Youthwork, we believe that strong communities begin with strong leaders, and for more than 15 years, Charles A. Dark, II has been one of those leaders. As Director of the DC Prevention Center for Wards 5 & 6, Charles has dedicated his career to helping young people, families, and neighbors understand the risks of alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs, and build the protective factors that create safer, healthier communities.
A Legacy of Education and Service
Prevention work is deeply personal to Charles. “I come from a family of educators,” he shares. His mother was a teacher and principal, and his father taught special education at Anacostia High School. Following in their footsteps, Charles began his career as an elementary school teacher after graduating from Virginia State University. Over the years, he taught in both DC and Prince George’s County schools before moving into academic support work at Howard University’s Capstone Institute.
“Education was my first passion,” Charles reflects. “That’s what makes my current job so special. The work we do at the Prevention Center still allows me to educate, but using a different platform to engage youth, parents, caregivers, and the entire community.”
Building the Prevention Center from the Ground Up
When the opportunity arose to direct the newly launched Wards 5 & 6 DC Prevention Center in 2009, Charles knew it was the right fit. “Because this was a new initiative, it gave me the opportunity to develop it my way and make it something that would stand the test of time,” he says. Nearly 16 years later, the Center has become a trusted resource for residents across two of DC’s largest wards.
Charles and his team spend much of their time out in the community, holding community conversations, offering trainings, providing resources, hosting workshops, and equipping parents, schools, businesses, faith leaders, and youth with the tools they need to prevent substance misuse. “Often, our youth are looked at as the problem,” Charles says. “But we see them as part of the solution. We give them opportunities to have a seat at the table and remind them that their voices matter, and their choices matter.”
The Power of Prevention
As a Certified Prevention Professional, Charles brings not only passion but also recognized expertise to his work. “It’s like going to a doctor, you want someone with the proper credentials,” he explains. “Being certified gives credibility and ensures we’re delivering the best prevention practices possible.”
A typical day varies depending on the season. Summer brings community events and outreach, while the school year is filled with trainings, data collection, and technical assistance. But no matter the time of year, Charles is motivated by the impacts he sees in the community. “I love the fact that we make a difference in the communities we serve. Our efforts are not only recognized but appreciated.”
Wisdom for the Next Generation
For young people struggling with risk factors, Charles offers this advice: “Find someone you trust and talk to them. The help is here, but first you have to let someone know what’s going on. It’s okay to struggle, but at some point, we need to name the problem so real healing can take place.”
And for others interested in a career in youth prevention and support, Charles emphasizes patience, empathy, and the willingness to keep learning. Prevention is about consistency and connection. The reward for these efforts are the lives changed along the way.
Beyond the Work
When not at Sasha Bruce Youthwork, Charles recharges by traveling, attending live concerts, enjoying fine dining, and spending time with family and friends. His favorite quote “Tough times never last, but tough people do” is one he lives by and brings into his work every day.
As he looks ahead to March 2026, which will mark 16 years of service as Prevention Center Director, Charles remains as committed as ever to prevention and community building. His vision and dedication continue to shape Wards 5 & 6 into a place where young people are seen, heard, and supported, and where healthier choices lead to brighter communities.
