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Michael Tucker (DPR) - (202) 717-4242; [email protected]

DPR Launches New Program for Youth Development Professionals with George Washington University

DC Department of Parks and Recreation Pioneers New Effort for Certified Youth Workers

(WASHINGTON, DC) – Today, the DC Department of Parks Recreation (DPR) announced a ground-breaking initiative with George Washington University Center for Excellence in Public Leadership (GW CEPL) open to DC residents. The Youth Development Professional Certification (YDPC) is a 9-month program to create new leaders in youth work starting in January 2025.

“Through technology and unlimited access to information, our young people face challenges that the generations before never had,” says DPR Director Thennie Freeman. “The ways that professionals interact and develop our youth must be adjusted and this program will be the catalyst to create a fresh wave of leaders ready to drive positive transformations within their communities.”

The Youth Development Professional Certification program is the first of its kind in the region, connecting those with a passion for youth with cutting-edge education and access to thought leaders in the field to equip participants with skills, knowledge, and strategies to effectively mentor and support youth in various educational and community settings.

The vision for this program is led by DPR Director Freeman, a graduate of GW CEPL programs and youth development expert. Freeman’s program will focus on fostering personal and professional development, promoting resilience, and enhancing the overall well-being of youth through comprehensive coaching methodologies.

“The GW Center for Excellence in Public Leadership is thrilled to partner with DPR to create an innovative learning and development platform for aspiring professionals in youth development," said GW CEPL Executive Director Jim Robinson. “For far too long, individuals dedicated to youth development have been overlooked and insufficiently supported in their growth and advancement. This program addresses a critical need in the District of Columbia and the region, with the potential to establish itself as a national and global standard for youth development.”

The pilot program will involve 24 participants in a 9-month learning experience with monthly in-person or virtual meetings, leadership coaching, peer coaching sessions, site visits, a capstone project, leadership assessments, and more. At the end of the course, participants will be certified youth development professionals and ready to serve youth in the District.

There is also an opportunity to help shape the program by volunteering in person or virtually for a curriculum development session in October.

You can participate in one of two focus groups:

• In-person at George Washington University on October 29, 2024, from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
• Virtually on October 31, 2024, from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.

To learn more, join the inaugural cohort, or participate in the curriculum-building sessions in October, please visit YDPC.splashthat.com.