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D.O.I.T Development Operations InitiativeTeam Celebrates 30 Year Anniversary

By Brenda Cochran


Members of the Board with President Michael Manuel
Members of the Board with President Michael Manuel

It is always gratifying to recognize those individuals who are able to change the lives of young persons. Such was the case on Thursday, August 14, 2025 when young and old paid special tribute to Michael Manuel, President & CEO of D.O.I.T. Development Operations Initiative Team, a successful group of individuals who have been able to enrich their

lives through the dedication of Michael Manual.


Mr. Manuel has had a vision throughout his many roles as a gentleman who has experiences as a Senior Engineer and a personal vision and passion toward enhancing the lives of young people. He has accomplished this by working for development within young people a real purpose within themselves and throughout the community with the challenges that are facing so many. According to Mr. Manuel, his faith and action is what guides everything he tries to do.


This event was held at the Community Development Corporation located in Westtown Shopping Center on West Third Street. The Corporation is a non-profit organization that focuses on improving low-income communities and improving neighborhoods.


Board members of D.O.I.T, former graduates and other interested members of the community and proponents of the organization, were on hand to not only congratulate recent graduates, but also to celebrate thirty years and Lahighlight the work performed by Mr. Michael Manuel, President and CEO of D.O.I.T.


A beautiful Program Book was given to all in attendance which not only had great pictures, but much information about Student Training and the many programs offered by D.O.I.T. also included was the Mission and Vision. The Mission Statement read as followed: “Our Mission is to holistically empower individuals through teaching construction principles that build neighborhoods and develop life skills.”


Joe Pettaway Master of Ceremony congratulates Michael Manuel, President
Joe Pettaway Master of Ceremony congratulates Michael Manuel, President

The afternoon began with Mr. Manuel expressing his thanks for those in attendance followed by a Welcome and Prayer provided by Joe Pettaway, Master of Ceremonies. Dinner and Personal Affirmations followed along with Introductions of Board Members.


The Keynote Address followed and was provided by Daveon Dickerson, Mentor, Family Builder, Craftsman and Technician. He began his address by voicing the following: “All it takes is one life to honor so much.”


Daveon is a board member of D.O.I.T. and the owner of Prep Team LLC, a painting and pressure washing company. His life and leadership have made him a mentor to men, a guide for youth and a partner in community restoration.


He began by speaking of Michael Manuel who taught him so much and how he also was able to rebuild himself. Mr. Dickerson shared the skills he has gained and also described his family who is also doing well. He then shared that through all he was taught, he said, “I not only learned so much in building houses, I believe that I am building a Legacy.”


Following this well-received message, the 2024 Graduates spoke each noting how much Michael Manuel had enhanced his/her lives.


Graduates with their Certificates
Graduates with their Certificates

The Graduates included Joslynn Harris, an Accountant who spoke of the vision she has gained through the leadership of Michael Manual.


Chandra Hightower, who spoke of project management, Budget and Scheduling and all that she has been able to achieve.


Tony and Cynthia Laster spoke of what they are teaching their children noting for them the importance of doing things correctly and all that they are doing more in their community.


Teri Sims, the last graduate, spoke about the children she works with and all that she has learned and the positive occurrence of meeting Michael Manuel. Showing a Vision Board, she spoke of the vision board of helping to Rebuilding People.


Each graduate was able to offer personal affirmations which were enlightening for all in attendance.


Closing Remarks were then made by Mr. Pettaway who asked that all graduates and board members gather for a picture. A beautiful plaque was then presented to Mr. Michael Manuel and a very special prayer shared by Mr. Pettaway.

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The Dayton Weekly News
P.O Box 1895
Dayton, Ohio 45401
937-397-7796

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