The DC Youth that I encounter at the local club houses, after school programs, public schools, and chartered schools are eager for directions from a person other then their parent. Youth look to find a hip adult that can “understand where they are coming from”. In observance of the youth in my ward I’ve noticed that they suffer from a wide range of issues from domestic violence at home that flows over into their own social lives, to socialization issues. They also are affected by inherited eating habits that can be improved with household education on eating healthier foods, as well as living healthier lives to improve health disparities in DC residence. Due to some youth not understanding the importance of structure because it was not taught to them, some youth react to adults with unmistakable disrespect and anger. I talk to the youth that I encounter one on one to find out the reason for their anger. Most youth expressed that no one (meaning the staff as well as family) listens to them and how they feel. I am there to be that listing ear and to hopefully give them the building blocks they need to articulate how they feel and become productive parts of our community. I create a stress free, happy and loving atmosphere for them to begin to break down their wall of defense.

MOM Akeme Program mission is to develop healthy attitudes and lifestyles in youth, according to their sociological, mental and emotional needs during critical stages in their lives. We will provide a safe and supportive environment that youth need to excel in life, and will support the youth and give them the building blocks they need to make better decisions in life. We feel that the youth should have a person they can relay on other then a parent. For the youth that are wards of the court or in foster care our goal is to rebuild trust in their lives. MOM Akeme provides a relationship with youth that they will embrace for their entire life like a parent. We will provide a life skill curriculum, and provide social ventures for each participant on both group and individual bases. MOM Akeme will also advocate for the youth that need advocacy.

I have researched many different teen programs in and around the DC area to get ideas on how they have structured their programs, and what kind of curriculum, if any, they are following. I also surveyed youth in my ward to see what the teens need to stay busy after school, and during the summer. I also allowed a space for them to express how they feel about their ward. The survey resulted in my understanding that some youth don’t know how or don’t have a way to release their stress. After my research was complete, I started meeting with teens at the library and at my house to have discussions. I also have had sleepovers so the youth could interact with other youth in their community and get to know each other. Creating this closer environment allowed me the opportunity to talk to them about healthy living habits without individual attention, which will sometimes cause youth to shut down due to lack of information. The Youth were extremely open during our sessions, and were grateful for the experience. , and look forward to doing it again.

through donations and professionals can host workshops and train older youth.