Record-Breaking Summer Youth Employment Program in DC

Over 13,000 young people from the District of Columbia participated in the Mayor Marion S. Barry Summer Youth Employment Program (MBSYEP) and its accompanying programs, Career Ready Early Scholars Program (CRESP) and Marion Barry Youth Leadership Institute (MBYLI), this summer. The programs provided District youth with opportunities to earn money, explore career paths, participate in training, and develop essential skills for their future. Among the notable achievements, over $250,000 in scholarships were awarded, including five participants who received $20,000 each.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Mayor Marion S. Barry Summer Youth Employment Program (MBSYEP) provided opportunities to over 13,000 young people from the District of Columbia.
  • The Career Ready Early Scholars Program (CRESP) offered District youth ages 9 to 13 the chance to explore college and career pathways and develop essential skills for their future.
  • The Marion Barry Youth Leadership Institute (MBYLI) provided leadership training and development for District of Columbia youth, focusing on practical, hands-on experience and a holistic approach to developing leaders for the 21st century.
  • MBSYEP continues to be the largest summer youth employment program per capita in the country and stands as a national model.
  • The programs offered a range of activities, including job opportunities, career exploration, training, and connection-building to help participants succeed in the workforce.
  • The 46th annual program has been dedicated to serving the community by providing thousands of young people with job opportunities and career pathways.
  • DOES Director Dr. Unique Morris-Hughes emphasized the program's significant impact and legacy over the decades, with a focus on the future and the upcoming 2026 program.

Statistics:

  • Over 13,000 young people participated in the programs this year.
  • More than 700 organizations served as host employers.
  • Over $250,000 in scholarships were awarded to participants, including $20,000 each to five participants.
  • The Career Ready Early Scholars Program (CRESP) has been in its third year of offering college and career pathways to District youth.

Sources:

  • DOES (2023)
  • "Mayor Marion S. Barry Summer Youth Employment Program (MBSYEP) and Marion Barry Youth Leadership Institute (MBYLI) Closing Reception and Ceremony"

WASHINGTON, DC

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