Charlieism – DISCIPLINE, INTEGRITY, RESPECT, TENACITY

Unlock Their Potential.
Cultivate Their Future.

D.I.R.T. Mentoring Initiative: Growing Stronger Futures, Rooted in Support

How D.I.R.T. Works

The D.I.R.T. ( DISCIPLINE, INTEGRITY, RESPECT, TENACITY ) Mentoring Initiative is implemented through a multi-faceted approach within middle and high schools

Integrated Learning

We weave engaging activities focused on emotional intelligence and conflict resolution directly into the classroom experience. Students will learn practical decision-making strategies through interactive lessons, role-playing, and goal-setting exercises.

Dedicated Mentorship Programs

We carefully match students with dedicated mentors from the local community who offer consistent guidance, encouragement, and a sense of accountability. Regular mentorship sessions provide a safe space for students to discuss challenges, explore opportunities, and develop essential life skills.

Skill-Building Workshops

We organize dynamic workshops focused on crucial personal and social development areas, including anger management, critical thinking, and respectful communication. Interactive role-playing helps students practice navigating real-life situations with confidence.

The D.I.R.T. Difference

The D.I.R.T. Mentoring Initiative is implemented through a multi-faceted approach within middle and high schools

By investing in the D.I.R.T. Mentoring Initiative, you are investing in the future of our youth and our community. We anticipate significant positive outcomes, including:

Enhanced Emotional Intelligence: Students will develop a greater understanding of their own emotions and the emotions of others, leading to healthier relationships and better self-regulation.
Improved Academic Performance: With increased self-discipline, stronger goal-setting habits, and dedicated mentor support, students are expected to show greater engagement and success in their studies.
Reduced Behavioral Issues: By equipping students with effective conflict resolution skills and promoting positive decision-making, we aim to decrease instances of risky behaviors and disciplinary actions.
Stronger Community Bonds: The program fosters meaningful connections between students, mentors, families, and community organizations, creating a more supportive and nurturing environment for everyone.

Charlie Watts Sr, MPA

Emergency Management Leader · Advocate · Mentor · Systems Thinker

Charlie Watts Sr. is a seasoned emergency management and public safety professional with over 20 years of experience spanning government, healthcare, and nonprofit sectors. He currently serves as the Disabilities Access and Functional Needs Manager at the NYC Mayor’s Office for People with Disabilities, where he leads inclusive planning and response strategies that center the city’s most vulnerable populations. Charlie is the founder of the Disaster Resilience and Resource Network (DRRN), a multi-agency collaborative of over 150 partners working to enhance crisis coordination and community readiness.

Charlie began his journey in service with the United States Army in 1999, serving honorably until 2006. In 2007, he faced personal adversity and was incarcerated. Released in 2010, Charlie credits that chapter—and the mentors and life lessons it provided—for shaping his perspective, resilience, and purpose-driven leadership. This transformation laid the foundation for a career dedicated to ensuring safety, equity, and opportunity for others, particularly those navigating complex systems or overcoming hardship.

A natural mentor and coach, Charlie is deeply committed to uplifting the next generation. Through community-based initiatives and one-on-one guidance, he has helped teens and young adults improve discipline, set Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound (SMART) goals, prepare for college, build confidence, and master job interviews. He has supported youth in making life decisions, managing time effectively, improving physical fitness, and understanding financial literacy. Whether assisting with internship placements or coaching through pivotal moments, Charlie’s mentorship is rooted in compassion, structure, and real-world wisdom.

He has held leadership roles during some of the city’s most critical emergencies, including as Operations Section Director during NYC’s COVID-19 hoteling and command center response and as Assistant Director of Safety and Emergency at Harlem Hospital. Charlie has trained hundreds of frontline workers, guided compliance with (National Fire Protection Association) NFPA and (Americans with Disabilities Act) ADA standards, and championed accessibility and innovation in crisis planning.

He holds a Master of Public Administration in Disaster and Emergency Management from the Metropolitan College of New York, a BA in Psychology, and certifications in Lean Six Sigma. He is also a certified Project Management Professional and currently pursuing a doctoral degree. Charlie’s mission is rooted in service, transformation, and opening doors for others—especially young people and justice-impacted individuals—so they too can lead, thrive, and give back.