LAYC Youth Explore Careers and Purpose at The Rockefeller Foundation

For many young people, choosing a career can feel overwhelming. What careers exist beyond the ones they already know? How do professionals find their path? And what does it really take to create positive change in the world?

Youth from LAYC's DC Summer Youth Employment Program (SYEP) and Prince George's County Next Generation Scholars and SYEP programs explored these questions during an inspiring visit to The Rockefeller Foundation, where they connected with professionals, learned about philanthropy, and discovered new possibilities for their futures. 

Rockefeller Foundation staff talking to our youth about careers and goals.

The visit gave participants an opportunity to step into a professional environment and engage directly with the Rockefeller staff who are dedicated to addressing global challenges. Through conversations with professionals from a variety of backgrounds, youth learned about the Foundation's mission and how philanthropy can be used as a powerful tool to create meaningful change in communities. 

For many youths, the visit expanded their understanding of careers focused on service and impact. 

“It was very engaging and educational. I got to learn about what philanthropy was about and what career choices I could pursue to help people other than just medicine,” said a LAYC Youth Participant 

The panel discussion was another highlight of the day! By sharing their personal experiences, the staff helped youth understand that career journeys are rarely linear, and that growth often comes from being willing to learn, adapt, and embrace change. 

“My favorite part was hearing all the panelists talk about their experiences and how they got to where they are today. I learned that careers take time and that it's okay if your goals change along the way. What stood out to me most was realizing that I don't have to stay in one profession forever. I can explore different paths and find something I truly love doing because success comes from being passionate about your work.” - LAYC Youth Participant

The learning continued with an interactive trivia competition that challenged participants to put their new knowledge to the test. The room quickly filled with energy, teamwork, and friendly competition as youth answered questions about The Rockefeller Foundation’s mission, impact and information that they learned throughout the visit. To make the activity even more exciting, the top three participants who answered the most questions correctly received prizes.

While the day's activities were educational, they also fostered a sense of belonging and encouragement. Youth left feeling heard, valued, and inspired by the professionals who took the time to invest in their growth and future aspirations. 

Experiences like this are a vital part of LAYC's commitment to helping young people explore opportunities, build professional networks, and develop the confidence needed to pursue their goals. By connecting youth with organizations and professionals who are creating meaningful impact, LAYC helps participants see that their futures are full of possibilities. 

LAYC extends its sincere gratitude to The Rockefeller Foundation for opening its doors, sharing its mission, and investing time in our youth. Through partnerships like these, youth gain the knowledge, inspiration, and support they need to envision bright futures and the confidence to pursue them. 

At LAYC, we believe that when young people can see what's possible, they are empowered to create what's next.