Read more online.
Thursday, July 31, 2014
Tweets of the day (7/31/14)
@cataloguedc Our #SYEP interns showed off the #nationaldanceday routine in the conference room! #whatsupwednesday pic.twitter.com/4WCNF2n7k3
— CityDance (@CityDance) July 30, 2014
Bethune kids helping beautify #brookland storm drains thanks to @anacostiaws pic.twitter.com/3NpsLVdsfe
— Rachel Kerwin (@RachelKerwin) July 29, 2014
Wednesday, July 30, 2014
Tweets of the day (7/30/14)
Learning about organs and building stethoscopes. These are your future #doctors, folks. #thingamajig #medicine #stem pic.twitter.com/QweWzeuJUB
— YMCA of Metro Wash (@ymcadc) July 24, 2014
#funtimes with our favorite teacher #Thingamajig @WMMSAVID @WalkerMillMS @pgcps @ymcadc @ymca pic.twitter.com/JsC30XqYYC
— PDLady (@gina_phelps) July 24, 2014
Tuesday, July 29, 2014
Tweets of the day (7/29/14)
Had a great time yesterday visiting future big leaguers at @HRBC_Camps at Turtle Park. Thx for the invite, Coach Mac! pic.twitter.com/uJ9peIOEhk
— Vincent C. Gray (@mayorvincegray) July 24, 2014
Photos from Q&A session last Friday w/ @DCDPR Southeast Tennis & Learning Center: http://t.co/b8vtZnwJFu pic.twitter.com/KnSEkdfSWs
— Vincent C. Gray (@mayorvincegray) July 21, 2014
Monday, July 28, 2014
Tweets of the day (7/28/14)
.@RossESDC’s Luca is spending his summer learning that "If you get burned,it’s your own fault” http://t.co/MD0Kx1wmY0 pic.twitter.com/jLCUDvxTal
— DC Public Schools (@dcpublicschools) July 23, 2014
I am here to serve! @MarieReedES #dcps pic.twitter.com/FmxsJSPui8
— Principal Lundgren (@MRESPrincipal) July 24, 2014
Sunday, July 27, 2014
Tweets of the day (7/27/14)
Thank you seems small compared to all this group from CFAN & KPCW did to help w/ Summer Lights http://t.co/QktnQ7gCL8 pic.twitter.com/J2eoa6TECp
— Little Lights (@LittleLightsDC) July 21, 2014
"We love Girls on the Run because it gave my daughter an outlet for her tremendous need to run!"GOTR-DC Parent pic.twitter.com/Gk1p2ds9Oo
— Girls on the Run DC (@GOTRDC) July 24, 2014
Saturday, July 26, 2014
Tweets of the day (7/26/14)
@GSCNC Troop 47888 had a great day building bears at build-a-bear workshop in Bethesda fun fun fun thx Jane Barvir:) pic.twitter.com/k3mHRUMsoN
— Girl Scout Troop (@Troop47888) July 14, 2014
Tks for visiting us at the Farm @WalkerJonesEC, Perry School kiddos! We loved your enthusiasm & adventurous palates! pic.twitter.com/qvEwpjTRKY
— DC Greens (@dc_greens) July 23, 2014
Friday, July 25, 2014
Please share the details about free lunches served on Saturdays at select DPR and DCPL sites
One City Youth is encouraging DC Free Summer Meals Program heroes to email their outreach efforts so they can be documented them and heroes recognized!
This was originally posted on the Susie's Budget and Policy Corner blog in the post Are you a DC Free Summer Meals Program hero?.
Parents: Camp costs may qualify for Child and Dependent Care Credit
Learn more about how your child-related expenses may qualify by reading the CAAB post Get Credit for Child and Dependent Care This Summer.
The post lists 10 facts about the federal tax credit. The list was developed by the IRS.
Tweets of the day (7/25/14)
#ATEAM putting in that work! #30Days pic.twitter.com/H17dFd7ETJ
— ATEAM FOOTBALL (@AnacostiaFb) July 23, 2014
On a hot summer morning Browne Education Campus students continue their education... http://t.co/vi4zd1hVmZ pic.twitter.com/fMzxu8Z9c6
— Browne EC (@BrowneEC) July 23, 2014
Thursday, July 24, 2014
Tweets of the day (7/24/14)
@OneCitySYEP @Wash_Humane #CATNIPP #studentwrker #SheLovesCats! #lovesHerSummerJOB #TeensAndAnimals pic.twitter.com/QIrrh9imPo
— WHS Shak (@Shak_HumaneEd) July 22, 2014
Our FUN field trip to @sweetgreen reinforced camper's knowledge on #nutrition and #healthyliving! Thanks @sweetgreen! pic.twitter.com/Xy9XHKDEyR
— Kid Power, Inc. (@kidpowerdc) July 22, 2014
Wednesday, July 23, 2014
@1776dc has fall internship opps; deadline to apply is Aug. 1
Want to make an impact? Apply for a Fall 2014 #internship at 1776! (WAY better than a Hill job...) http://t.co/d6xkU7jV8g
— 1776 (@1776dc) July 23, 2014
The deadline for undergrads and grad students to apply for one of the 1776 fall internships is August 1, 2014. All interns will handle various projects to promote the 1776 mission, support Campus incubator programming and Campus operations. It should do without saying that interns are valued team members!
For the fall, 1776 has the following internship opportunities:
- Events
- Editorial
- Design
- PR/Marketing
- Business/Finance
- Executive Support
- Membership
- Operations
- Public Policy
- More!
Tweets of the day (7/23/14)
Catch up on Saturday's #Nats @dcpl readings w this photo gallery: http://t.co/5Z5KzA1xGF pic.twitter.com/lUMs8trBF4
— Washington Nationals (@Nationals) July 20, 2014
#Composting with @GiantFood, Rube Goldberg machines by kids, a #submarine with @USNavyResearch ... it's #Thingamajig! pic.twitter.com/0xSaBQmi5K
— YMCA of Metro Wash (@ymcadc) July 21, 2014
DC's Healthy Summer Trend: Yoga!
Taking advantage of these classes is wise considering all the benefits of yoga. Regular yoga practice has shown to boost immunity, improve sleep, fight cravings, and help heart health. Also, yoga is super relaxing and FUN!
So, where should you go for FREE classes this summer?
Many DC Public Libraries (i.e. Cleveland Park, Petworth, Georgetown, Watha T. Daniel/Shaw Library, etc.) are offering classes in the afternoon and evening.
Also, various community organizations like the MBT5K Race Committee and the Golden Triangle BID are sponsoring free yoga classes.
Here are some of the best finds:- Yoga at DC Public Libraries
- Yogalates at Farragut Square
- Yoga at Metropolitan Branch Trail with Crystal Moore
- Yoga at Meridian Hill Park
No matter where you choose to go, be sure to bring a mat, water bottle, and sunscreen!
Tuesday, July 22, 2014
Free lunch on Saturdays, anyone?
That's right. Free lunch for all kids in DC. Shocked? Surprised? Don't be. DC has served free meals on Saturdays before. The point, after all, is to make sure kids are not hungry on weekends.
DC Free Summer Meals is an important component in One City Youth as evidenced by the real estate dedicated to the program on the One City Youth website. In addition to the searchable map prepared by OCY partner DC Hunger Solutions, the site is home to outreach materials, chief among which are the flyers in Amharic, English, French, Korean, SimChi, Spanish, and Vietnamese; a short PSA; and a list of sites containing Ward and ANC info.
What are you waiting for? Help feed some kids on Saturdays and through the summer - tell them about the DC Free Summer Meals Program, refer them to the searchable map, and tell them to call 211 to find the most convenient location.
Tweets of the day (7/22/14)
Chevy Chase CC #SuperheroesSaturday event was AMAZING & a few real @dcpolicedept heroes came by! #HeroesX2 @dcgovweb pic.twitter.com/VpZ2UHcxPh
— DCParksAndRecreation (@DCDPR) July 21, 2014
The perfect accessory to any hairdo is a #SMILE! These #YMCA kids did just that on Crazy Hair Day. #beyourself #YCamp pic.twitter.com/jUnurt78we
— YMCA of Metro Wash (@ymcadc) July 21, 2014
Monday, July 21, 2014
Back to School Backpack Drives!!
- Organization name
- Organization website
- Date of drive
- Time of supply drive
- Location of supply drive
- Any other helpful info
Your assistance is GREATLY APPRECIATED.
Tweets of the day (7/21/14)
Looks like a gorgeous day 4 #Rowing practice on #Anacostia R. @dcstrokes @kidpowerdc @EliotHine @JATrojans pic.twitter.com/S4fiASKguC
— Serve Your City (@ServeYourCityDC) July 16, 2014
Lady Candidates of the Capital Guardian Youth ChalleNGe Academy at the Terrapin Adventures Ropes Course pic.twitter.com/imrtjruwDR
— Capital Guardian (@cgyca) July 16, 2014
Sunday, July 20, 2014
Beat the Streets on Friday with a Community Cookout!
This free community event has things for the whole family: face painting, moon bounce, health screenings and more!
Join us Friday July 25th and tell all your friends!
The event will be held at 1100 Allison Street NW, Washington, DC from 2:00pm to 7:30pm.
Check out the Facebook event and read more online: Community Cookout.
Tweets of the day (7/20/14)
This camp teaches local girls to play instruments, start a band, and get rock show-ready: http://t.co/uQMOHblh7b pic.twitter.com/CWqNt55REw
— City Paper (@wcp) July 17, 2014
The GirlsInc Experience is happening at Girls Inc DC this summer! pic.twitter.com/Fj70wkVqBT
— Girls Inc of DC (@GirlsIncDC) July 12, 2014
Saturday, July 19, 2014
Community Day: August 19!
More than 60 student and family volunteers of the center will paint and decorate bathrooms, classrooms, and offices. Outside of the center, they will trim trees and bushes, plant flowers, mulch, and wash toys. They will also create an edible garden!
Additionally, residents can register for child care at the center, receive a free health screening, and engage in other fun activities like giveaways and cotton candy.
Other UPO vendors will include Early Learning Registration, Workforce Development, Building Careers Academy, Adult Education, Community Reinvestment and Advocacy and Volunteer Services.
If you're hoping to volunteer, the United Planning Organization still needs 25 volunteers to assist with the beautification project from 8:00am to 12:00pm. Please contact Bernardette Ferrell at (202) 231-7945 for more information.
Tweets of the day (7/19/14)
This morning's Explorers Fun Run was a blast! A great way to enjoy the beautiful weather with family and friends! pic.twitter.com/prKUTH11em
— Sidwell Summer (@sidwellsummer) July 17, 2014
And finally, success! One of the kids samples the fruit [ice cream] of her labor. pic.twitter.com/8bURV59E0B
— UDC_CAUSES (@UDC_CAUSES) July 16, 2014
Friday, July 18, 2014
Tweets of the day (7/18/14)
This is why we #work so hard! #Swimming lessons for #at-risk #DC #youth @DCDPR @kidpowerdc @EliotHine @JATrojans pic.twitter.com/JtcIUHtge4
— Serve Your City (@ServeYourCityDC) July 16, 2014
One of my students in the animal mask he made. Pretty sure he's a shark.@YPTDC pic.twitter.com/cvT9WMkjzs
— Cecilia Cackley (@citymousedc) July 15, 2014
MoEd DC!
Created in partnership with MoEd, a Jewish educational after-school program currently operating in Maryland, MoEd DC will offer an easy way for busy families, with children from PK4 to 3rd Grade, to introduce their children to Hebrew and Jewish learning.
The core program is focused on three “Content Days” which includes Hebrew study through immersion and Judaics balanced with play and homework time. Snack will be provided every day. Content Days will be Monday, Wednesday and Thursdays.
MoEd DC also offers optional “Enrichment Days” on Tuesdays and Fridays. Enrichment classes may include: swimming, musical theater, karate, LEGO engineering, soccer, yoga, Zumba and more. Also, 3 year old siblings of MoED DC students will be eligible to attend DCJCC afterschool on all days.
For more information, visit washingtondcjcc.org.
Thursday, July 17, 2014
Spotlight on MPD Helping Kids Eat This Summer!
Specifically, Nardi and Marron were working on spreading the word about the new Saturday meal sites being offered at various rec centers and libraries. They visited DC public libraries, recreation centers, and spoke to youth hanging with friends outside in neighborhoods.
Both officers enjoyed learning more about the DC Free Summer Meals program and helping to spread the word in their surrounding communities. Many of the children were enthusiastic to learn that they can eat free Monday-Friday AND Saturday at select meal sites throughout the entire summer.
See the full list below for the NEW Saturday meal sites :Tweets of the day (7/17/14)
Members of team Powell Panthers before and after the mud run at Prince George´s Stadium. A moment of truth! pic.twitter.com/6ejKRoWCcJ
— Powell ES-DCPS (@Powellelem) July 16, 2014
What adventures greet us this week @jcca? Rock climbing! Our campers reach new heights every day! pic.twitter.com/mutRrtyEiq
— Washington DCJCC (@16thstreetj) July 15, 2014
Want to be a part of something GREAT?
The Humanities, Arts & Technology Festival at Gateway DC (HATFestDC)is on August 2-3 from 1:00pm-6:00pm. The festival is registering both volunteers and vendors for the weekend at hatfestdc.com.
Attendees of HATFestDC will hear, see, create, learn, taste, dance, and interact. With a theme of “Humanities, Arts & Technology at Work,” HATFestDC will showcase the evolving creative economy in DC, while inspiring both adults and youth to build creative projects and programs with H.A.T. (humanities, arts, and technology) disciplines at the center.
The HATFestDC will feature a main performance area and five mini pavilions focused on music, visual arts and graphic design, food, technology and a children’s area. Concurrently, each area will include interactive workshops, readings, artist talks and panel discussions, robotics, art creation, theatrical performances and chef demonstrations. There will be over 50 vendor spaces, designed to provide area entrepreneurs a chance to authentically connect and establish relationships with potential consumers.
This program is made possible by a grant from the Deputy Mayor’s Office for Planning and Economic Development and presented by St. Elizabeths East, The Humanities Council of Washington, DC and THEARC.
Register to be a vendor or volunteer at hatfestdc.com and join #HATFestDC on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram @HATFestDC.
Wednesday, July 16, 2014
Washington Nationals to Visit Summer Reading All-Stars at Four DC Public Libraries!
Here's everything you need to know:
- Who: Manager Matt Williams
- Where: Tenley Library (4450 Wisconsin Avenue NW)
- When: 11:00am to 12:00pm
- Who: Outfielder Scott Hairston
- Where: Deanwood Library (1350 49th Street NE)
- When: 11:00am to 12:00pm
- Who: Outfielder Denard Span
- Where: Anacostia Library (1800 Good Hope Road SE)
- When: 12:00pm to 1:00pm
- Who: Pitcher Drew Storen
- Where: Mount Pleasant Library (3160 16th Street NW)
- When: 12:00pm to 1:00pm
Plus, all youth 18 and under can get a FREE LUNCH at the Anacostia library this Saturday from 1:00-2:30pm!!
Tweets of the day (7/16/14)
Thank you @SIGardens for giving our SYP youth a tour & fantastic advice on how to pursue a career in horticulture! pic.twitter.com/tGch0Z3r8M
— CommonGoodCityFarm (@CmmnGoodCtyFarm) July 14, 2014
Yesterday, the #corn we gleaned was on stalks. Today, it's being prepped at @dcck. How's that for farm-to-table? pic.twitter.com/uZduwcSTOk
— Campus Kitchens (@campuskitchens) July 11, 2014
“Man-Up” Youth Empowerment Conference
The aim of this conference is to provide DMV youth with options to advance in life to become productive citizens within their community. Conference topics will include the following: HIV/AIDS prevention education, virtual technology, social media, sports, mentoring programs, employment opportunities, interview attire, substance abuse, cyberbullying and more.
Need a job? Bring your resume so we can help!
Bladensburg Barber School,and Allstate, Graham Insurance Agency,Inc. will both be at the event! For any teens interested in becoming Barbers or teens interested in Allstate Mentoring Programs, this could be a great opportunity to learn about these fields.
The free conference is an opportunity to meet over 100 young adult men in the DMV area. Continental breakfast, and a light lunch will be provided. Meet former Washington Redskins (#41/Safety) Madieu Williams NFL Man of the Year 2010! He will be speaking about the importance of education,football and safety.
Due to seat limitations, you must pre-register to attend at McGuire Global Recruitment's website.
Tuesday, July 15, 2014
NEW Saturday DC Free Summer Meals for Kids and Teens!
- Anacostia Library (1800 Good Hope Rd SE, Washington, DC 20020) on July 19, July 26, August 2, and August 9 for a free lunch served between 1:00-2:30pm.
- Capitol View Library (5001 Central Ave SE, Washington, DC 20019) on July 26 and August 9 for a free lunch served between 1:00-2:30pm.
- Dorothy I. Height/Benning Library (3935 Benning Rd NE, Washington, DC 20019) on July 19, July 26, August 2, and August 9 for a free lunch served between 1:00-2:30pm.
- William O. Lockridge/Bellevue Library (115 Atlantic St SW, Washington, DC 20032) on July 19 and August 2 for a free lunch served between 1:00-2:30pm.
Family Day at National Air and Space Museum
Activities include designing a mission patch, building a P-51 plane out of popsicle sticks, planting a hydroponic garden, and more! There will be presentations on milestones of flight, the Space Race, the Apollo, and other topics related to the history of air travel in the United States. Be sure to attend the talk from NASA astronaut Patrick Forrester about innovation and the International Space Station!
Admission to the museum and this special event is free. For more information, check out the National Air and Space Museum website.
Tweets of the day (7/15/14)
Visiting awesome #dcps drummers at the DCGA Brazil in your Backyard summer camp! @dcpublicschools @EmbassyAdoption pic.twitter.com/Y4AzuPPm81
— Mr. Wilkinson (@Call_me_Mr_Wilk) July 10, 2014
Summer fun at NMAFA West #African #dance and #drumming!! pic.twitter.com/hvMFQh8d2P
— SmithsonianNMAfA (@NMAfA) July 10, 2014
Monday, July 14, 2014
NBM's Summer Block Party
Visitors can enjoy extended hours to see exhibitions, navigate the BIG Maze, and nosh at Hill Country's Backyard Barbecue. For more information, visit: nbm.org.
Summer Science for Kids at Home
PC Magazine has got you covered! They have eight geeky activities to keep your kids busy. Their website features how to make potato clocks, robots, lego cars, weather stations, and more!
Check out these helpful links for the potato clock and the glow in the dark activity.
Sunday, July 13, 2014
Local teens featured in DC museum exhibition
Middle and high school students from the D.C. area have spent five weeks exploring, documenting, and interpreting the built environment - this exhibition showcases their work and lends a fresh perspective to the identity of our nation’s capital.
The exhibition opening, held on August 1 at 6:30 pm in the National Building Museum, is free. No registration is required.
For more information, visit the National Building Museum website.
Tweet of the day (7/13/14)
Brother Destin for the #touchdown! #QuickAintFair #LPTMsummer2014 #exercise pic.twitter.com/HTd9v07SUu
— Life Pieces (@LP2MP) July 9, 2014
Saturday, July 12, 2014
National Night Out: August 5!
The “Summer of Love: Love Your Self and Your Health” Citywide National Night Out Celebration will showcase local artists in a festive atmosphere with activities for all ages.
Various law enforcement agencies will display their vehicles and share strategies for problem solving while social service providers share information in preparation for a healthy start to the school year. Nearby, children will navigate the park on bike rides with officers. The night will end with a movie night in Marvin Gaye Park.
For more information, visit mpdc.dc.gov.
Tweet of the day (7/12/14)
These students at @GlobalKids showed FLOTUS the social media projects they created with kids in Bosnia. #ReachHigher pic.twitter.com/kFpcqLkDCR
— The First Lady (@FLOTUS) July 10, 2014
Simon Students are Shining Bright!
In May, Whitney Bartell's fifth grade students, Ka'Shawn Hough and Arjanae Mitchell were two of ten winners of the National Capital Lawyers Auxiliary's (NCLA) Law Day essay contest, while another, Kavon Douglas, was named as a Carson Scholar.
When Bartell suggested the Carson Scholarship and NCLA Law Day essay contest to Douglas, Hough, and Mitchell, it didn’t take much convincing to get them to apply! Not only do the three students have superior grades, they are leaders in the classroom.
“They are the people who take over in terms of projects and can manage their peers in a way," explained Bartell, "and their peers are very dedicated to following these three.”
According the application, the NCLA Law Day essay contest, of which Hough and Mitchell were winners, aims “to encourage students to understand the importance of living in a democratic society.” The contest invited DC Public School fifth graders to write 250 to 500 word-essays on a chosen theme. This year’s theme was “What America Means to Me.”
Hough and Mitchell were honored at the NCLA awards ceremony where they read excerpts of their essays in front of Justice Sotomayor. After the ceremony, they were able to meet Justice Sotomayor and receive an autographed copy of her most recent book.
The Ben Carson Scholarship Fund, of which Douglas was one of the 510 recipients, awards students in grades 4 through 11 with academic success and humanitarian qualities demonstrated in community service projects. As a winner, Douglas received $1,000 college scholarship and an “Olympic-sized medal and trophy.”
What makes this achievement even more special for Douglas and Hough is that as siblings, they can celebrate together.
“They're very competitive, but they're very, very close,” said Bartell. Despite constantly competing academically, they support each other's accomplishments.
“I'm proud of him for winning,” said Hough. “He's my older brother, so now, I can follow his footsteps.” Douglas agreed saying, “I never thought she would get this type of award from this greatest person...So now, I can set examples for her and she can set examples for me.”
Keep up the great work Simon Elementary School!
Read the full story on Capital Community News.
Friday, July 11, 2014
This Just In: Summer Meal Materials!
Nana Asare: A Determined DC SCORES Alum
Born in Ghana, Nana moved to the United States when he was toddler. Even as a young boy, Nana dreamed of becoming a professional soccer player. However, when Nana was hit by a car while crossing a street in second grade, his world was shaken. The impact of the car resulted in Nana breaking his femur in his left leg and fracturing his skull.
Worried about his health, Nana’s parents thought he should end his soccer career and pursue other goals. However, even eleven surgeries later, Nana was resilient in his goal of becoming a professional soccer player.
“Nana has been a paragon of determination since the accident,” writes DC SCORES, “but it took him awhile to develop the focus and discipline that allowed him to juggle playing varsity soccer and academics at Wilson High School.”
Nana isn’t shy to admit it—he was hard-headed and full of behavioral issues during his early years at Brightwood Education Campus. That is, until he joined DC SCORES in the fourth grade and met soccer coach, Shannon Nelson.
“She became a mentor-mother figure while I was at school,” describes Nana. “She just made sure I had the right necessary tools to learn and live the life that I want to live. To this day we still keep in contact.”
With Coach Nelson’s influence, day by day, Nana became a kinder classmate and better student.
Nana spent five years as a DC SCORES participant at Brightwood and then Paul Public Charter School, playing soccer — of course — but also learning to express himself through the art of poetry. Writing poetry helped Nana develop public speaking and leadership skills.
Now, Nana is following in Coach Nelson’s footsteps and paving the way for others. He is braving the heat this summer and working at Marie Reed Elementary School as a Summer Youth Employment Program worker at DC SCORES’ Soccer & Arts camp.
Nana has taken one child, Jonathan, under his wing because he sees so many similarities to his younger self. Jonathan is a hard-headed kid who loves soccer.
“He’s just been that one kid that I can say I’ve seen myself in when I look at him. I’ve been a knucklehead, I’ve been hard-headed, I’ve been stubborn at his age. It just takes that one person to have you under their wings to guide you the right way and you’ll be good.”
One City Youth wishes Nana the best of luck in college and congratulate him on his accomplishments!
Read Nana’s full story and see more photos from DC SCORES on the DC SCORES blog.
Tweets of the day (7/11/14)
The new #Facebook. (Faces in books) #DCSubway after school pic.twitter.com/lcOiudEwDF
— Doug Sloan (@DougSloan) July 10, 2014
Seasonal summer squash sauté wrapped in scratch-made corn tortillas. Scrumptious! #CookingWithKids pic.twitter.com/zFIS6I48Jt
— DC Greens (@dc_greens) July 10, 2014
Thursday, July 10, 2014
Out of the Basement: A Story of Perseverance and Community
Avery first heard of Greg’s story while she was a student at The Institute for Documentary Filmmaking at George Washington University. One of her classmates discovered Lime Lite Boxing Gym, where Greg trained, and told Avery about this hidden gem filled with great stories and the great protagonists of these stories. When Avery met Greg at Lime Lite, she was fascinated by his resilience and wanted to learn more.
The dynamic between Greg and his father, Tony, was especially of interest to Avery, who wanted to delve into how they navigate and make sense of the tension posed by competing fears and ambitions.
To share a little of his story (without any major spoilers), Greg thought he had his life figured out—a career in the coastguard, a family, a reliable paycheck—but suddenly that was all gone. These tragedies were not only disappointing to Greg but to his father as well who had hoped for him to have a different kind of life and not have to face the struggles that he had as a young man.
Through the process of telling Greg’s story, Avery learned that you don’t need to reach your ultimate goal to have significant change occur in your life, “Greg may or may not become a world champion," writes Avery, "He may not, as he hopes, make a good living off boxing. But he has learned what he is capable of in the journey so far.”
Even if you aren’t into the DC boxing subculture, this film has something to offer you. On the surface, the film is about a boxer and has the audience on the edge of their seats wondering “Is he going to make it?” But in Avery's words, the boxing is a metaphor about something greater, "the rawness and the struggle of rising to the challenge of life, especially a life in this economy where there is such a winner take all mentality.”
Indeed, Avery hopes that one of the main messages that youth learn from the film is that success requires individual diligence and perseverance but also depends on the strength of the community surrounding oneself.
For show times (many screenings are at DC Public Libraries) and trailers, see outofthebasementdc.com.
Tweets of the day (7/10/14)
@eagleacademypcs pool life #summerschool pic.twitter.com/ESBUxs07C2
— They Call Me Rico (@manofblessings) July 2, 2014
We're ready for another fan-tastic day of camp! #BDE2014 pic.twitter.com/h5PExHLh7Z
— Headfirst Camps (@HeadfirstCamps) July 8, 2014
Wednesday, July 9, 2014
Free Summer Concert Series at the National Building Museum!
Each Sunday, beginning July 20 and continuing until August 10, music and dance groups will grace the Great Hall in a fun, family-friendly event. Concerts begin at 2 pm and do not require pre-registration.
Schedule:
- July 20 – Reverb
- July 27 – Washington Performing Arts Children of the Gospel Choir
- August 3 – CityDance Ensemble
- August 10 – Washington Performing Arts Summers Steps with Step Afrika!
For more information, visit: nbm.org
Tweets of the day (7/9/14)
Thank you to the campers from @ymcadc who came out for a day of service yesterday at NCCF! #NCCFcares #YMCA pic.twitter.com/2LP2f8Ks1T
— NCCF (@NCCFCares) July 8, 2014
Get cold lemonade on 4th Street on the way to the Nats game. Jack and Stella, young Capitol Hill business owners. pic.twitter.com/qShgTpzAEW
— Margaret Holwill (@HStreetDC_) July 5, 2014
Tuesday, July 8, 2014
Lowell's summer reading lists
Books include:
- Marisol McDonald and the Clash Bash by Monica Brown
- The Secrets of Droon (series) by Tony Abbott
- Rules by Cynthia Lord
- Wonder by R.J. Palacio
- Seedfolks by Paul Fleischman
Does your school have a reading list? Email the list to One City Youth.
Tweet of the day (7/8/14)
It may be 95 outside but my girls are staying cool and having an awesome time here @DCDPR spray park! pic.twitter.com/qih2UEkSlt
— DC Thrifty Mom (@DCThriftyMom) July 7, 2014
Millennial Day of Service (#Successful)
In honor of Millennial Week, Capital Cause, an organization that revolutionizes how young people define philanthropy by training them to give collectively to charitable causes, hosted this event and partnered with over twenty millennial-led organizations to make it a success.
On the actual day of service, over two hundred young philanthropists participated by volunteering at Kelly Miller Middle and Johnson Middle Schools. In efforts to encourage students to learn more and give more, volunteers wrote letters to students about valuing education; created career-themed messages on bulletin boards and murals; donated 200 career prep packs; and hosted eight career workshops for students.
Overall, the efforts of the volunteers reached and inspired over seven hundred students in one day! Check out pics from the event on the Capital Cause Facebook page.
Monday, July 7, 2014
DC Middle-Schoolers Discover University Life
#DCPS students at Stuart-Hobson #middleschool, go to @ASASafterschool camp to prepare for #highschool & college! http://t.co/TsZzLDzECd
— Join DCPS (@dcpsjobs) July 5, 2014
Apply for the Youth Development Practitioner Scholarship!
The courses at UDC-CC will eventually lead to an eighteen credit Certificate in General Education (Out-of-School-Time), which builds staff capacity in youth-serving organizations. These classes will be offered over the course of three semesters and were selected based on the necessary skills to help youth reach positive knowledge, attitude, and behavioral outcomes.
The program is perfect for professionals in a variety of youth-serving fields and organizations, such as community-based organizations, government agencies, faith-based groups, community recreation and correctional professions, coaches and counselors.
If you are interested in applying for the scholarship, check out CYITC's website and download and complete the application online. There are a limited number of scholarships available. Participants will be notified of their application status by Friday, July 20th.
You can read more online.
Tweet of the day (7/7/14)
Our own @trulldc made his way through the new @BuildingMuseum maze and lived to tell the tale http://t.co/QTJQ6bYZFz pic.twitter.com/RWb6kXwdSK
— WAMU 88.5 News (@wamu885news) July 3, 2014
Sunday, July 6, 2014
We Need YOU.....to Tell Us about School Supply Drives!
If you know about an organization hosting a school supply drive, please email the information to onecityyouth@dc.gov. Specifically, we are asking for the following information:
- Organization name
- Organization website
- Date of drive
- Time of supply drive
- Location of supply drive
- Any other helpful info
Your assistance is GREATLY APPRECIATED.
D.C. Hunger Solutions: Working Hard to Fight Hunger
Now imagine one out of those eight struggling with hunger--that's a thought that is much more difficult to face.
However, nearly 1 out of 8 households struggle with hunger, with uncertain or limited access to, or ability to buy, healthy and nutritious food in DC.
Founded by the Food Research and Action Center (FRAC)in 2002 to improve food security in DC, D.C. Hunger Solutions strives to "improve the nutrition, health, economic security, and well-being of low-income District residents."
Specifically, D.C. Hunger Solutions works to:
- Improve public policies to end hunger, reduce poverty, promote nutrition, curb obesity, and increase the availability of healthy, affordable food in low-income areas
- Maximize participation in all federal nutrition programs (SNAP/Food Stamps, school meals, early childhood nutrition programs, WIC, and summer meals)
- Educate the public about both the stark reality of hunger's existence in the midst of plenty and the real opportunities for effective solutions
During the summer, a focus of D.C. Hunger Solutions is the DC Free Summer Meals Program, a federal nutrition program administered locally by the Office of the State Superintendent of Education. This FABULOUS and FREE program serves all children ages 18 and younger and provides them with free food during the summer months. Children and teens can just show up at a site (i.e. DPR centers, libraries, DC Public Schools, charter schools, and houses of worship) during meal time to receive a FREE meal. Breakfast and lunch are the most common meals served although dinner is served at some sites.
Although the full time staff at D.C. Hunger Solutions may be small (currently six individuals, including three Americorps VISTAs), they can obviously accomplish a lot! To find out more, visit the D.C. Hunger Solutions website.
Tweets of the day (7/6/14)
Nothing like seasonal summer squash stir fry for lunch! Fun times w these @ELHaynesPCS ladies during #cookingwithkids pic.twitter.com/Vfsu4K94hW
— DC Greens (@dc_greens) July 2, 2014
Visiting our DC Elementary School Program today! Hanging out with the little ones and working on arts and crafts! pic.twitter.com/3yvTHtEUe4
— Asian American LEAD (@aalead) July 1, 2014
Saturday, July 5, 2014
Tweet of the day (7/5/14)
BLOG: The 1st week of #SCORESsummer brought 100 youth from different parts of DC 2gether! http://t.co/9qfrGVsapU pic.twitter.com/6v8CIXUVyP
— DC SCORES (@DCSCORES) July 2, 2014
The Quest for Readiness: A Thought Leader Conversation
Both academic credentials and “non-cognitive” competencies like punctuality, perseverance, and problem-solving are essential to young people graduating from high school and succeeding in college or the workforce. Often, however, young people are not developing these non-cognitive competencies and as a result, are not “ready” for further education or a career.
Join John Gomperts, president & CEO of the America's Promise Alliance; Karen Pittman, CEO and co-founder of the Forum for Youth Investment; and Sean Slade, director of whole child programs at ASCD for a discussion of the latest reflections on these overarching questions:
- What does it mean to be "ready"?
- If it takes more than academic competence, what are the other competencies and how do we name, build and measure them?
- What supports must communities provide to get young people ready?
- Are schools responsible for the "academic" ones and the community responsible for the rest?
- What must national, state and local leaders do to create those supports?
Summer Reading for Social Justice
They have reading lists for elementary students, middle school students, adults, and educators. Visit the Teaching for Change bookstore if you want to buy some of the books on the list.
Teaching for Change's bookstore is the Washington DC area's best source for books that encourage children and adults to question, challenge, and re-think the world beyond the headlines. The bookstore is located in Busboys and Poets (2021 14th St NW, Washington DC).The only question is "What will you read first?"
Friday, July 4, 2014
Tweet of the day (7/4/14)
USA fans are gearing up for the World Cup watch party at Freedom Plaza #WhereAreYouWatching pic.twitter.com/xTJ3IFu5HT
— NBCWashington (@nbcwashington) July 1, 2014
A Six-Week Writing Residency For Children and Teens
There are many benefits to participating including:
--Writing-studio space
--Writing prompts and/or editing/inspiration/creative support as desired
--The space and organization for the writer’s end-of-residency reading and accompanying promotion
--Publication in the Northeast Library Writer’s Anthology
--$25 stipend (Young WIR) or $50 stipend (Young Adult WIR)
Applications will be accepted from July 1 to August 1. For more information, visit the DC Library website.
U.S. Department of Education Has Upgraded District’s Grantee Status
In 2006, USDOE designated DC Public Schools as a "high-risk" grantee on account of systemic problems. Since the DC Public Education Reform Act of 2007, OSSE has been implementing systemic reforms and finding solutions to stated issues in the High-Risk Corrective Action Plan.
Mayor Gray believes the decision to remove the "high-risk grantee" designation "demonstrates the significant progress" the District has made in our efforts to reform and improve our system of public education. He applauded the State Superintendent of Education and the entire OSSE team for "their dedication and commitment to transforming our educational system."
Read the full press release on OSSE's website.
Thursday, July 3, 2014
Get Lost this Summer at the BIG Maze
Bjarke Ingels said of his maze: "The concept is simple: as you travel deeper into a maze, your path typically becomes more convoluted. What if we invert this scenario and create a maze that brings clarity and visual understanding upon reaching the heart of the labyrinth?" From outside, the maze's cube-like form hides the final reveal. On the inside, the walls slowly descend towards the center which concludes with a grand reveal—a 360 degree understanding of your path in and how to escape.
The BIG Maze will be open Monday through Saturday, 10 am–5 pm, and Sunday, 11 am–5 pm, July 4 through September 1. Tickets will only be available in person, on a first-come, first-served basis. To find out more information, check out the National Building Museum website.
Tweet of the day (7/3/14)
Learning the ins and outs of computers pic.twitter.com/bo2Fx2rKjt
— Girls Inc of DC (@GirlsIncDC) June 30, 2014
Wednesday, July 2, 2014
Fourth of July: Family Baking!!
Check out our favorite red, white, and blue ideas--everything from patriotic cupcakes to tacos!
Tweet of the day (7/2/14)
No one is too young, too old, or too anything to create art. #babyartist @cohdc https://t.co/EpfnV9XdKR
— Project Create DC (@ProjectCreateDC) June 24, 2014
FY14 Grantees Weekend Wrap-Up
Teenage Pregnancy: Does Geography Equal Destiny?
The forum was a result of efforts that started fifteen years ago when a group of local foundations and DC Campaign sponsored a study of teen pregnancy in the District. Since this study was published, the rate of teen pregnancy in DC has sharply decreased. In wards 1 through 6, the total number of teen births dropped by nearly half—from 710 in 1997 to 364 in 2011. In wards 7 and 8, however, the number rose over that period, from 473 to 508. In 2011, data from the Department of Health indicated that Ward 7 had 215 teen births and Ward 8 had 293 births.
Panelists at the forum offered insightful perspectives and comments on the fact that wards 7 and 8 continue to struggle with high teen birth rates. Panelists indicated how a "sexually charged" environment surrounds teenagers from everything from music lyrics to the conversation of their peers. Additionally, a lack of activities plagues the teens in wards 7 and 8. As one pregnant high school student said earlier this year, "Uptown . . . they have . . . activities they can focus their mind more off of sex. I mean, everybody is going to think about sex. But I feel like they can focus their mind on something else."
Additionally, there are gaps in knowledge regarding contraception as well as differing perceptions of risk in wards 7 and 8. Panelists encouraged mothers to talk about love and relationships with their children and to overcome any "awkwardness" that may be a part of the conversation.
To lower teen birth rates in wards 7 and 8, the most recent study conducted in DC suggests the solution is to solve broader, persistent problems, such as broken families, unemployment,and especially the lack of education and various social services. The panelists agreed and recommended a holistic approach that includes female empowerment as a focus. As one panelist stated, "There are some beautiful things and beautiful people east of the river." Helping one another recognize their assets and boost their self-esteem is essential to not only lowering teen birth rates but for also raising morale in DC.
To read more, check out the DC Campaign to Prevent Teen Pregnancy online.Tuesday, July 1, 2014
DC Water Promotes Water Awareness at Its Annual Children’s Festival!
The program included many fun activities that were designed to engage children and teach them about their drinking water as well as environmental issues concerning water resources.
Learning stations included water testing, a mobile water conservation unit, recycling and water relays, and a video that showcased "A Drop's Life," a cartoon explaining the Clean Rivers Project. Additionally, students toured the mobile water quality lab, took photos with Wendy the Water Drop mascot, and painted water-themed murals.
Sounds like a WATERful time!
Read the full press release on DC Water's website.Tweet of the day (7/1/14)
Italian Camp! Production of Hip Hop Pinocchio (tutto in Italiano!) pic.twitter.com/NP1XirCu73
— Principal Pride (@principalpride) June 27, 2014