I am writing on behalf of the Soldier for Recovery – All Must Change vapor and substance misuse prevention program to offer my strongest recommendation and support for their continued funding and expansion. I serve as the Director of School Culture at YouthBuild Philly Charter School, where we have partnered with Mr. Suleiman Hassan and this program for the past two years.
During this time, we have witnessed a tremendous impact on our young people and our overall school community. Mr. Hassan’s mentorship, lived experience, and educational presentations resonate deeply with our students. He does not simply deliver information—he builds relationships, challenges mindsets, and helps young people see new possibilities for their lives beyond substance use and high-risk behaviors.
The program has contributed meaningfully to a shift in our school culture. Following Mr. Hassan’s engagement during the 2024–2025 school year, YouthBuild Philly experienced a 37% decrease in referrals related to vaping and drug-related incidents, along with an additional 12% reduction compared to the previous year. We also saw a significant decline in repeat offenses, as students demonstrated greater awareness, accountability, and commitment to healthier decision-making. While we continue to strengthen our internal systems and technology, the behavioral change we have observed is directly connected to the influence and credibility Mr. Hassan brings to this work.
What makes Soldier for Recovery – All Must Change especially effective is its combination of prevention education, authentic storytelling, and sustained mentorship. Students see Mr. Hassan not just as a presenter, but as someone who understands their realities and challenges them to make different choices. This alignment with trauma-informed and restorative approaches has reinforced our mission to support the whole student and cultivate a culture of accountability, growth, and hope.
We strongly believe that continued investment in this program will allow more young people to benefit from its life-changing message and support. The measurable outcomes, coupled with the personal transformation we see in our students, make this an invaluable partnership.
I wholeheartedly recommend Soldier for Recovery – All Must Change and Mr. Suleiman Hassan for grant funding and future collaboration. Please feel free to contact me if additional information would be helpful.
Sincerely,
Malcolm Eleby
Director of School Culture
YouthBuild Philly Charter School
