Mayor Fenty Speaks at LAYC Opportunities Fair

Hundreds of Youth Turn Out to Learn about Education, Health and Career Opportunities

DC Mayor Adrian Fenty joined hundreds of young people and their parents at LAYC on Saturday, April 28 to discuss education, college, and job opportunities in the District of Columbia.

The first annual “Make It Happen” Opportunities Fair was a hit, with representatives from several area organizations, including Mount Pleasant Public Library, Catholic University School of Nursing, UDC, DC Office of Apprenticeships, and the Posse Foundation, sharing information with more than 300 youth about a wide range of opportunities. Clinica del Pueblo was also on hand, providing free HIV tests. Additionally, a number of LAYC programs had booths at the event, including the Art & Media House, YouthBuild Public Charter School, WISE and Teen Health Promoters.

Attendees munched on Famous Dave’s Barbecue and tasty empanadas from Los Hermanos.

Mayor Fenty praised LAYC’s staff who put together the fair and urged the young people to check out the many organizations and programs represented in the room. Said Lori Kaplan, LAYC’s Executive Director, “We’re really pleased with the big turnout for the fair. Having Mayor Fenty attend and speak to the youth was a real bonus. It’s great for everyone to hear directly from the Mayor how much he cares about young people and how committed he is to building bright futures together.”

Congratulations to John Van Zandt, coordinator of LAYC’s Youth L.E.A.D program, who took the lead organizing the event and ensuring a strong turnout. And thanks to Office on Latino Affairs Interim Director Mercedes Lemp for OLA’s support of the event.