Youth Issues Top Agency's Thrust During Summer
DC’s young people have long recognized UPO as a place to go for quality training and human services, especially the unique programs and activities geared specifically to them.

Now, UPO which for many years has operated a Summer Youth Employment Program in partnership with the DC Government, continues its commitment with the agency taking in more than 150 young people for the summer months.
Getting off to a slower than usual start this year, the City program finally launched, giving some their first glance into the work experience as many reported to their respective jobs. As they began to work at various tasks, they were already laying the groundwork for a future that will no doubt be brighter.

As in previous years, UPO’s Joseph Wood heads the program with his usual skill and firmness. “I expect you in here at 9:00 AM sharp and not 9:05,” bellowed Mr. Wood to several youth who walked in late. Youth receive proper training for the real world of work where tardiness is not tolerated.

Some SYEP youth are veterans of the activity choosing to return year after year to the UPO program rather than venturing into another agency. “I like UPO and what it stands for,” noted one teenage girl who will enter the 11th grade this fall. “UPO has taught me the values I need in my life,” she added.

This year, UPO’s SYEP included 120 youth age 14 and 15 and 30 youth age 16 - 19. Youth only get paid for their work, thus, they must turn in proper time sheets - just like the “real world” shouted a 16-year old who had moments earlier signed for his check. Young people are paid $5.00 per hour for 20 hours per week. There are no holidays and no absences. Youth are paid every two weeks with many using their money to help defray cost for the upcoming school year. “I need a ton of books” said one fellow, now experiencing his first “working” summer.

UPO also operates Youth Programs specifically targeting young people in many of the City’s neighborhoods. Launched in 1993, the federal Community Services Block Grant (CSBG) funded activity serves hundreds ages 14 - 21 via 15-community organizations strategically located throughout the District of Columbia. Many of the adult workers are actually volunteers who are concerned about the plight young people must everyday face.

This year, the UPO program is year round, thus making certain young people aren’t simply “forgotten” when the ‘season’ ends.

Veteran staffer Eva Toney heads the program with a keen knowledge of the problems associated with today’s young people - as well as a sense of how those problems can be solved. “Our youth are glowing! Self-esteem has soared, self worth and productivity has increased, and most importantly, they are meaningfully planning and participating in the programs, services, and events that positively influence their lives,” noted Ms. Toney when quizzed about the many youth who participate in the program..

Other articles - this issue
1. UPO's Funding of Latino Community Organizations Helps Diverse Neighborhoods Prosper.
If the community action concept stands for anything, first and foremost must be its ...

2. Youth Issues Top Agency's Thrust During Summer
DC's young people have long recognized UPO as a place to go for quality ...

3. DC Students Awarded Record Number of Scholarships
UPO's 37-year commitment to education was onece again evident ...

4. UPO Acquires Operation of Senior Network
It has had several names during its 30-year existence, actually starting out as ...

UPO REPORTER
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President: Russell D. Simmons
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