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Join Our Mailing ListHoward University
2400 6 th Street, NW
Washington , D.C. 20059
Phone: (202) 806-2441
Fax: (202) 518-2716
E-mail: valriebrown@hotmail.com
Title: Howard University Youth Empowerment Program
Project Director: Valrie Brown
Project Amount Funded (FY 2006): $250,000
Target Population: African American and Hispanic/Latino Youth, Grades 4-5
The goal of the Howard University Youth Empowerment Program is to educate and empower a cohort of 35 youth attending Meyers Elementary School to reject violent activities, illicit drugs, unacceptable behavior, and unhealthy lifestyles. Howard University (HU) implements the project in partnership with several organizations: Myers Elementary School , University of the District of Columbia (UDC) DC Reads Program, Partners for Education, SOEXHO, Marriott Hotel catering services, HU Department of Nutritional Sciences, and HU Student Health Center. The Howard University Youth Empowerment Program consists of an academic year after school program, monthly Saturday activities, and a three-week summer program, all of which are conducted at the Meyers Elementary School . During the three-week summer program, participants engage in activities related to each of the four program components. The program's academic enrichment component provides after school homework assistance and one-on-one tutoring from HU and UDC students which reinforces the curriculum provided during the day. Supplemental lessons/activities in mathematics, language arts, daily journal writing, poetry writing, social studies, and basic computer skills are also offered. Personal development and wellness after school activities are designed to improve participants' decision-making skills and promote healthier eating and activity choices. Cohort members participate in meal planning and meal preparation to reinforce proper diet and nutrition. Other activities in this component encourage stronger parent/child relationships and foster family bonding. In the cultural enrichment component, participants are exposed to cultural experiences that promote an understanding of diverse cultures and heritages. The lessons/activities conducted by program staff and guest speakers are provided to enhance cultural identity and pride, and increase awareness of traditions, cultural norms, and multiculturalism. The career development component is comprised of activities that include an assessment of participants' interests to help them better understand their future roles as workers and to make them aware of the life skills necessary to be productive members of society. Participants are also provided with information on early college awareness, career awareness and study skills.