The union of Bryant Myles and Michelle Banks-Myles brings together a long history of education, advocacy and youth empowerment. Inspired by their mothers, Mrs. Ruby Ann Myles and Ms. Carrie Ann Dawson, we present the Ruby Ann and Carrie Ann Scholarship Foundation, (RACA). 

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Mrs. Myles was a dedicated educator, loving mother and wife. Hailing from Marin City California, she obtained her Bachelor of Arts in Education Studies and teaching credentials from Dominican University. Mrs. Myles was active in her church and community. She served as the church pianist and established the Marin Community Choir. Mrs. Myles was a master at motivating and persuading children to believe in themselves and aspire to excellence to achieve their dreams. In 1996, as a fifth-grade teacher, she was awarded Santa Rosa’s Teacher of the Year.  Mrs. Myles’ legacy lives on not only in the many students who matriculated through her classroom, but also in her children and grandchildren, two of whom are also educators.

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A native Detroiter, Ms. Dawson spent her life giving to others. She worked in the medical and hospitality industries helping patients and clients.  She also served in the missions, hospitality and adult choir auxiliaries at her church. She was a patron of the fine arts. As a homemaker, she raised (3) college educated daughters. Bearing no sons of her own, Ms. Dawson welcomed her son-in-love Darin Banks into her family. After Mr. Banks’ passing, she became an avid supporter of the Darin C. Banks Foundation (DCBF). Because Ms. Dawson was one of the first to contribute her time and monetary resources to DCBF, the Foundation recently bestowed upon her the honor of Founding Supporter. While she’s no longer with us, her love and legacy of giving remain in our hearts.

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RACA endeavors to continue the great work of DCBF, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. In loving memory and to continue his legacy of service to others, Michelle Banks-Myles founded DCBF in honor of her late husband, Darin Catrell Banks, MBA. Mr. Banks was a seasoned procurement professional, mentor and philanthropist. He worked tirelessly to achieve his educational and professional goals and to help others achieve theirs. Mr. Banks forged a successful career in the automotive, health care and hospitality industries.

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As a married couple the Banks’ contributed to several charities aimed at improving youth literacy, funding college preparatory programs and college scholarships. Since its inception in 2009, DCBF has awarded nearly $40,000.00 in scholarships to students throughout the United States and mentored thousands of youths through its peer mentoring program, social networks, including streaming radio and 1x1 outreach. 

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With Bryant and Michelle at the helm and the support of an engaged board and volunteers, RACA will continue DCBF’s great work of promoting higher education, awarding college scholarships, and empowering students with practical and sound advice on financial literacy, interviewing skills, resume preparation, college success tips, successful career management and entrepreneurship. RACA believes in today's youth and tomorrow's leaders.

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