D-TAG Tattoo Removal Program

D-Tag

Area Teens have the opportunity to change a life's mistake
into a future they can be proud of...

The Metrocrest Medical Foundation is proud to assist youth in Addison, Carrollton, Coppell, Farmers Branch, The Colony and northern pockets of Dallas with the D-Tag Tattoo Removal Program. Through a partnership with Carrollton-Farmers Branch ISD school nurses, three local dermatologists, Dallas Medical Center, Southwest Laser Services, Inc., and the Carrollton/Farmers Branch Police Department, this collaborative program provides students the opportunity for removal of homemade gang related tattoos to foster self-esteem and personal growth, and allow recovery from the gang lifestyle. Some students hit barriers because of visible tattoos while trying to enroll in trade school, junior college, join the armed forces or gain employment.
Students voluntarily choose to get out of the gangs to better their status in life. They self-enroll and must meet the following criteria:

  • gang tattoos must be home made, not professionally done
  • tattoos must be visible when wearing a short sleeved shirt - only tattoos on the hands, arms, neck or face are considered for removal
  • student must perform 10 hours of community service for each treatment session
  • students must have a mentor who will work with him/her and verify community service
Because of the strict criteria, the students’ recidivism is minimal at 15%. Once they have been through the long process of tattoo removal appointments and community service hours, we are proud 85% are successful in their lifestyle change.
MMF partners with:
  • three dermatologists who donate their expertise six times a year to administer the laser machine
  • dedicated Carrollton/Farmers Branch Independent School District school nurses who donate their time to aid the physicians and oversee the students
  • Dallas Medical Center which provides space in their Day Surgery Department
  • Southwest Laser Services who donates the laser machine
  • Carrollton Police Department who supports the program and students and are present for all sessions and recommends potential students
Approximately 40-50 adolescents with multiple appointments throughout the year will be served. Flyers have been placed in all area high schools and middle schools, Brookhaven Community College, local police departments and chambers of commerce. Currently, officers in the Carrollton Police Department are carrying business card size “flyers” to give to students they feel would be agreeable to getting out of the gangs to better their lives as well as the lives they touch.
The D-Tag Tattoo Removal Program is a year-round project. MMF is involved all year in fundraising to cover the costs of all the medical supplies, administration of the funds and reporting to the donors.

Read comments from those who have gone through the program