Empower Ward 8 Youth: Fund Johnson Panthers

Developing Economic Opportunities Community Development Corporation (DEOCDC), is a community-based, non-profit organization whose mission is to eradicate poverty by providing programs and services that revitalize, support, and promote sustainable community growth in Washington, DC. Since 2017, we have partnered with Ward 8's Councilmember Trayon White to advance his vision of community upliftment, equitable access to quality education, and economic empowerment for the residents of Ward 8 and beyond.

One of our key initiatives to realize this vision involves supporting local sports teams and programs, recognizing them as powerful catalysts for social change. In underserved, violence-stricken neighborhoods, such as Ward 8, Washington, DC, these programs provide hope, structure, and opportunities, significantly enhancing the lives of youth and the broader community.

Our current focus is Ward 8’s Johnson Middle School Football Team, the #1 ranked middle school football team in the nation. Led by Coach Mike Sharrieff, the team has achieved remarkable success through hard work and dedication.

Recognizing the challenges faced by students in this underserved, violence-stricken community, Coach Mike has dedicated the last 23 years to creating a program that is more than just a team; it is a lifeline for students, providing them with a safe, structured environment where they can learn essential life skills such as teamwork, discipline, and perseverance. He has implemented a holistic approach that combines rigorous athletic training with academic support and life skills development. All 63 players have a minimum GPA of 3.0 and participate in study hall. Students who need additional academic support Meet Coach Mike at mandatory Saturday school and tutoring. This college readiness program gears young men up for college, effectively diverting students from the school-to-prison pipeline.

Coach Mike equips his players with the tools and confidence to envision and pursue brighter futures. In addition to athletic success, Coach Mike’s efforts have significantly reduced disciplinary issues, demonstrating that with the right guidance and support, students can overcome adversity and thrive.

Coach Mike celebrated his 200th game leading the Johnson Middle School Panthers. Of his 200 games, Johnson won 176, and has been undefeated since 2016!

We are requesting your support to kickoff their 2024-2025 football season to send this very deserving team to play in Memphis, Tennessee on August 19th – 23rd 2024. In addition to the kick-off game, players will tour colleges and visit the Lorraine Motel, a landmark significant to the Civil Rights Movement.

We appreciate all of your support! No donation is to small. Please share with your networks and click the following link to see our segment on Channel 9 news Channel 9 Segment - Johnson Middle School Football