In Washington, D.C., Mayor Muriel Bowser has unveiled significant new initiatives aimed at promoting career development among the city’s youth this summer as part of a broader effort to engage and support young people during their break from school.
The highlight of these initiatives is the 46th annual Marion Barry Summer Youth Employment Program, which will provide around 13,000 young individuals aged 14 to 24 the chance to gain work experience with over 700 local businesses.
This program is designed to help participants explore potential career paths and develop vital skills while establishing valuable professional connections.
For the first time in its long history, the program will also introduce Pathways to Finance Grants for high school students between the ages of 16 and 18.
Those awarded the grants will benefit from hands-on learning opportunities, career exploration, and internships specifically tailored to business-related fields, including accounting, economics, risk management, and international finance.
Additionally, the mayor has announced the launch of the Career Ready Early Schools Program, which will cater to younger children aged 9 to 13.
This initiative aims to provide age-appropriate curricula and activities that introduce children to various colleges and career pathways, laying a strong foundation for future career-oriented skills development.
“All of our kids who want an opportunity, we work to get them an opportunity,” Bowser stated, emphasizing the importance of early career preparation.
She highlighted that even at a young age, children would be able to start building their resumes, contributing not only to their college applications but also earning some money during the process.
Moreover, the Department of Employment Services Office of Youth Programs is spotlighting some unique summer opportunities.
These programs include participation in various volunteer efforts, such as engaging 3,000 youths through the Mayor’s Office on Volunteerism to write messages to seniors and military members.
An innovative addition is the Summer Youth Emergency Preparedness Academy, which will train 40 participants in essential life-saving skills such as First Aid, CPR, AED, and Narcan administration.
According to the organizers, such initiatives aim to nurture the next generation of emergency response leaders within the district.
Bowser remarked on the significance of exposing young people to accomplished adults who can guide them, share experiences, and illustrate the types of career options that are available.
This mentorship can help students make informed decisions about their educational pursuits and internship selections, contributing to their overall career preparedness.
The announcement of these programs comes against the backdrop of the DC Council’s consideration of an enhanced summer youth curfew, prompted by incidents involving disruptive teen gatherings.
To further support youth engagement during summer nights, the city’s Department of Parks and Recreation has initiated Late Night Hypes, offering alternative options for teenagers.
These efforts collectively aim to maintain youth safety while ensuring they have fun and enriching experiences throughout the summer.
“We all want to make sure that our young people in the district are occupied learning,” Bowser concluded, expressing pride in the young individuals beginning their placements this week and gratitude towards the host organizations participating in these meaningful summer experiences.
image source from：wusa9
