Little Burgundy non-profit looks to raise cash, awareness

A non-profit organizationin Montreal's Little Burgundy neighbourhood turned to social media onSaturday in the hopes of raising $10,000and awareness about the challenges facing local youth.

DESTA offers educational and mentorship opportunities to at-risk black youth in the greater Montreal area.

The event on Facebookfeatured more than 30performers and ran from 11 a.m.to 11 p.m. on Saturday.

"Basically, we've taken the concept of a conventional telethon and we're broadcasting that live onFacebook," explained PharaohHamid-Freeman, DESTA'sexecutive director.

In addition, part of the money raised will be given in Darius Brown's honour to an employment creation project.

Brown, a 17-year-old Montrealer, was killed last month.

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Making a difference

The organizationoffers mentorship programs, connecting youthwith jobs, education and personal development opportunities.

"They gave me a chance and that changed my life," said Imaan Browne, a former participant.

Browne took DESTA's entrepreneurship program andnow runs a successful online clothing store.

"I really needed guidance and I needed structure," he said.

"Because when you have dreams, you have a lot of ideas that you can't sow down to the ground. So, with the help and the support to say, 'You can. Let's work on your CV or let's work on who you are.'That's what made the difference."