As the year drew to a close, the Dyrdek Machine proudly celebrated the launch of its philanthropic arm, the Do-Or-Dier Visionary Foundation, with an event at its HQ in Beverly Hills, CA. In attendance were guests from across the LA venture community, non-profits, and friends of the Machine.
Rob Dyrdek, the founder of the 501(c)(3) non-profit foundation, kicked off the festivities by introducing the organization’s Senior Program Officer, Charles Choice. Charles has dedicated his career to combating inequality through youth development and non-profit initiatives, which profoundly aligns with the Do-Or-Dier Visionary Foundation mission to empower underrepresented entrepreneurs with the tools and resources necessary to succeed in business and life.
“When Rob shared his intention to launch the foundation and bring me on board, I felt my soul light up,” Charles declared while addressing event attendees. “Right now there’s heightened awareness around diversity, equity, and inclusion within the business landscape, but there’s more work to be done. There needs to be more hires, more checks written, and more opportunities given to people of all backgrounds vying to sustain themselves by following their dreams.” Charles went on to highlight and introduce representatives from each of the foundation’s inaugural partners, BUILD, WIT, and Defy Ventures, three organizations committed to teaching the entrepreneurial mindset to underrepresented communities. “At the end of the day we want everyone to know that if you learn the skills of an entrepreneur, you can apply them to all aspects of your existence and create a better life,” Rob added.
The foundation is currently building strategic partnerships to reach two specific demographics: youth from underrepresented communities and formerly incarcerated individuals.
“People don’t need to be saved. People need knowledge of their own light that lives inside of them and knowledge on how to access it. And that’s why I’m so excited about the road ahead because the world is absolutely a better place when more people are walking in their purpose and living their mission,” said Charles.
Dyrdek Machine will be donating a portion of all proceeds from its online store sales to the Do-Or-Dier Visionary Foundation. If you’d like to learn more about the foundation or make a donation, please visit DODF.org