PROGRAMS 

SUMMER LEADERSHIP ACADEMY

OUR IMPACT

Throughout the school year, Reach helps teens develop the skills to become leaders inside the classroom. During the Summer Leadership Academy, they grow into leaders poised to go beyond the classroom.

Through workshops on financial literacy, resume creation, participation in mock interviews, and collaborative projects such as podcasting and authoring children’s books, teens develop skills that serve them for years to come. College tours and Career Day show the teens the possibilities available after graduation. The Academy culminates with the Teen Philanthropy Challenge, an end-of-summer public-speaking contest that grants thousands of dollars to local charities.

 Academy Spotlight: Riley 

Like most Reach students, Riley enjoys helping others and cares deeply about the community. During the Summer Leadership Academy, Riley learned about SMYAL, a nonprofit that combats LGBTQ homelessness in DC. Horrified by the discrimination facing LGBTQ teens and aware of the challenges associated with homelessness, Riley decided to take action. She convinced her teammates to choose SMYAL for the Teen Philanthropy Challenge, the Academy’s end of summer public-speaking contest. Her team’s impassioned presentation won the grand prize and secured a $2,500 grant for SMYAL. As she enters her junior year at Ballou High School, Riley plans to continue advocating for the issues she cares about.

Learn more about our other programs