 Invitation to Attend OAA's Open House Event
The Mayor’s Office on African Affairs (OAA) invites you to #FreshStart Open House to meet and mingle with OAA Director Mamadou Samba, staff, and members of the African Diaspora community. Come share new ideas and suggestions about OAA's #FreshStart!
RSVP here
Informational Workshop: African Diaspora Marketplace (ADM III) Business Plan 2015
The Mayor's Office on African Affairs in partnership with the U. S. Agency for International Development and Western Union invite you to an informational workshop on the African Diaspora Marketplace (ADM) III Business Plan Competition. This workshop is part of OAA's Business Development Program which connects businesses to one another, and to technical assistance, capital, and new opportunities for local and international business. ADM aims to encourage sustainable economic growth and employment by supporting African diaspora entrepreneurs. ADM entrepreneurs are individuals with demonstrable connections to or experience in Africa, and who have innovative and high impact start-ups or established businesses on the continent. Information about ADM and past winners can be found at: www.diasporamarketplace.org.
Please note that government issued ID is required to enter the Franklin D. Reeves Center. For more information, please email: oaa@dc.gov or call 202-727-5635.
When: Thursday, February 19, 2015
Where: Franklin D. Reeves Center Municipal Building| 2000 14th Street, NW | 2nd Floor Edna Cromwell Community Room | Washington, DC| 20009
RSVP here
OAA's Internship Program: Spring 2015
The Mayor’s Office on African
Affairs is recruiting interns for Spring 2015. OAA’s Internship program
is a unique opportunity for undergraduate, graduate students, and young
professionals who are seeking to engage in public service and serve the
District’s diverse African communities. Each year, OAA attracts dynamic interns
who represent the diversity of the African community to support the mission of
the overall mission of Mayor Muriel Bowser.
Through
this program, interns interface with various sectors of District government,
community- and faith-based organizations, businesses and other stakeholders
thereby enhancing their leadership skills, and professional experiences. Beyond
their individual work assignments, OAA interns share responsibility for the
agency’s administrative tasks, providing staff support and participating in
program implementation and activities.
OAA internships
are unpaid unless otherwise note with a
minimum commitment of three to four. Internships
may be extended depending on need, and/or mutual agreement between OAA and the
intern. Candidates are required to commit to a minimum of 30 hours a week in order to be considered for the program.
Interns are selected on a competitive basis. The following are
minimum qualifications:
- Superior
knowledge of African immigrant issues;
-
A
passion for public service and a commitment to serve the District’s diverse
African communities;
- Strong
written and oral communication skills as well as excellent organizational and
computer abilities;
-
Flexibility
to work a minimum of 30 hours per week and attend occasional evening and
weekend events;
- Ability
to work in a fast-paced environment with minimal supervision;
- Completion
of a minimum of 2 years of full-time undergraduate studies;
- Outgoing,
great public speaking skills, and professional demeanor;
-
Highly desired attributes:;
-
Bilingual
or multilingual interns strongly preferred (especially Amharic, French, and Arabic);
- Strong
community ties with groups, organizations and institutions working on
Africa-related issues;
- Good
working knowledge of Adobe Creative Suite programs, social media, and visual
media.
HOW TO APPLY
If you
are interested in applying for an internship at OAA, submit a cover letter, a short
writing sample (2-3 pages maximum), and resume to oaa@dc.gov stating which position you wish to apply for in the subject line. In
your cover letter, be sure to include how many hours you’re available to work
and your desired start/end dates.
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 Mayor Bowser Invites All Washingtonians to Budget Engagement Forums
Mayor Muriel Bowser’s Budget Engagement Forums are designed as interactive discussions where DC residents can provide input to help shape priorities.
When: February 19, 2015 – February 23, 2015
Where: Various locations in DC (see RSVP listing)
When: Time varies (see RSVP listings)
Learn more
Dear Future
Mentors,
Did you hear
the news? Last month, I was joined by Deputy Mayor for Education Jennie Niles
and Chancellor Kaya Henderson to announce an innovative program by DCPS to
identify and assess current challenges and successes of boys and men of color.
The initiative involves collaboration with
the community, schools and District leaders to implement effective strategies
to enhance the student experience, increase achievement, and prepare our young
men for college and careers.
Learn more
Mayor Bowser Announces Initiative to Help Families Experiencing Homelessness Find Quality, Affordable Housing
(WASHINGTON, D.C.) – On February 12, 2015, Mayor Muriel Bowser, Acting Director of the DC Department of Human Services (DHS) Laura Zeilinger, and Interagency Council on Homelessness Director Kristy Greenwalt held a press conference at the Virginia Williams Resource Center to announce an innovative initiative to help homeless families find quality, affordable housing. The initiative allocates funding for a variety of programs designed to help families exit homelessness by providing the services and financial assistance needed to regain stability in housing. The District will assemble a team of leasing specialists, inspectors, social service professionals as “housing navigators” who are charged with identifying housing opportunities and matching units to clients based on need.
Learn more
Bowser Administration Announces New Radio Encryption Protocol for First Responders
(Washington, DC) – On February 11, 2015, Mayor Muriel Bowser’s Administration announced new protocols for the use of encrypted channels as the default communications protocol for DC FEMS (DC Fire and Emergency Medical Services). Following the Navy Yard Shooting, the District changed protocols for first responders to use only encrypted channels. That protocol has been changed to ease day-to-day communications between first responders from regional jurisdictions.
“After a thorough review that began in December, Mayor Bowser has decided that it is in the best interest of the District and its residents to change encryption protocols for DC FEMS first responders. Starting in March, unencrypted channels will be used for all standard operations, while still maintaining encryption capabilities for events that contained sensitive communication,” said City Administrator Rashad Young.
Learn more
Mayor Bowser Expands Summer Youth Employment Program to 22-24 Year Olds
(Washington, DC) – On Tuesday, February 10, 2015, Mayor Muriel Bowser announced that her administration will reprogram an additional $5 million to expand the Mayor Marion S. Barry Summer Youth Employment Program (MBSYEP) to serve District youth ages 22 to 24. The added funding will also support an increase in wages and associated transportation costs for program participants.
“My administration is committed to investing in our young people to ensure they have the skills they need to transition from summer jobs to long-term sustainable employment,” said Mayor Bowser. “This investment builds on the success of the Mayor Marion S. Barry Summer Youth Employment Program and reaches a core group of young people who need help finding pathways to good-paying jobs.”
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Mayor Bowser and DCPS Launch Bold New Initiative to Empower Males of Color
On January 21, 2015, Mayor Muriel Bowser and District of Columbia Public Schools (DCPS) Chancellor Kaya Henderson launched Empowering Males of Color. The effort is part of the Bowser Administration’s effort to advance achievement and opportunity and reduce racial disparities for boys and men of color across Washington, DC. Currently, male students of color make up 43 percent of the overall DCPS student population and those students as a whole are not meeting their potential. Black male students in particular have the lowest attendance and student satisfaction rates.
While the District’s overall efforts in these areas are improving, the Bowser Administration will invest $20 million over the next three years in Empowering Males of Color to target the most urgent and persistent challenges. In partnership with the White House’s My Brother’s Keeper effort, DCPS will use three key strategies to address the urgent needs of male students of color: mentoring targeted funding for grants to schools, and a new all-male college preparatory high school.
Learn more
Maroon Minute recognizes two Carnegie African Diaspora Fellowship awards
This year, two Missouri State professors were awarded fellowships through the Carnegie African Diaspora Fellowship Program. The goal of the program is to bridge the gap between North American and African learning systems. Assistant history professor Bukola Adeyemi Oyeniyi, and associate professor of chemistry Adam Wanekaya were selected to participate in the program. Dr. Oyeniyi will travel to Nigeria to work at Joseph Ayo Babalola University on curriculum co-development in African history and African social history, focusing on conflict resolution and peace building. Dr. Wanekaya will initiate contact with Federal University of Lokoja in Nigeria to establish research collaboration, student mentorship and research capacity building.
Learn more
Angelique Kidjo Dedicates Grammy Win to Women of Africa
African singing star and activist Angélique Kidjo has won her second Grammy Award - a trophy awarded for the Best World Music Album - in a ceremony. From Benin, Kidjo received the award for the album Eve dedicated to African women. "This album is dedicated to the women of Africa, their beauty and resilience," she said when she received her award at the Staples Centre in Los Angelos. She ended her speech "African women, you are wonderful." Kidjo is also well-known and respected for her work in climate change projects and improving the public health sector on the continent.
Learn more
Nigerian Doll Created By Taofik Okoya Now Outselling Barbie
Nigerian entrepreneur, Taofik Okoya, has created Nigerian dolls that are outselling the Barbie doll, the UK Daily Mail is reporting. The paper said according to Reuters, 9,000 units of the £4.50 (N1,280) dolls are sold per month, taking up 15 per cent of Nigeria's toy market. Taofik, who is the son of industrialist and owner of Eleganza, Razak Okoya, named his line of dolls the Queens of Africa. The dark complexioned dolls are styled in clothes unique to different tribes in Nigeria so that children can relate to them.
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Going Green – The New Green Industry
The Anacostia Economic Development Corporation invites you to “Going Green – The New Green Industry”. This seminar is designed to make new and innovative local programs accessible to DC small businesses. You will get an understanding on what it means to "Go Green". You will also learn about the different energy forms that are renewable and sustainable, Speakers from WDC Solar and DC SEU will present their current opportunities and best practices on going green in DC.
When: Thursday, March 5, 2015|10am-1pm
Where:1800 Martin L. King Jr. Ave SE|Washington DC| 20020
Learn more
“Let’s Get Financially Fit”: No Excuses, No Nonsense, No Strings Attached
In partnership with the Anacostia Economic Development Corporation and The DC Hive 2.0., the Capital Area Asset Builders (C.A.A.B.) would like to extend an amazing opportunity for you to attend a financial Boot Camp. This is a four (4) hour financially fit workshop consisting of 3 workout segments; “The Art of Budgeting”, “Take Charge of Your Credit”, and “Pay Yourself First”. This Financial Boot Camp is action-based. Participants will be able to resolve issues or take actionable steps towards obtaining optimal financial well-being, on-site.
When: Tuesday, March 17, 2015|10:00 am -2:00 pm
Where: The DC Hive 2.0 1231 Good Hope Rd. S.E.|Washington DC| 20020
Learn more
Forming a Nonprofit is EZ: Understanding the New IRS Short Form
The new IRS Form 1023-EZ has been out for several months. Alexandria Attorney Jennifer Gniady will present this workshop on understanding the new short form for getting nonprofit determination. Her presentation will include the potential benefits and pitfalls of the form for new organizations as well as an evaluation of its first six months of use. If you are contemplating forming a nonprofit in the near future, this workshop is a must!
When: Thursday, February 19, 2015 |9:00 am -11:00 am
Where: Alexandria Small Business Development Center
Learn more
Healthier World Innovation Challenge
Aetna Foundation announces funds to support programs that will create solutions that will empower members of under served populations to take control of their health with real-world solutions that fit into their everyday lives through technology they are already using. Letters of inquiry are required and due on February 16, 2015.
Learn more
The Mayor’s Office of Partnerships and Grant Services (OPGS):2015 Intensive 8-Week Grant Proposal Writing Course
The Mayor’s Office of Partnerships and Grant Services (OPGS), in partnership with the Magi Group LLC, will offer an Intensive 8-week Grant Proposal Writing Course for nonprofit executive directors, staff, program officers, and board members responsible for fund raising in the District of Columbia. This hands-on course will focus on actually writing an existing competitive grant proposal while integrating some of the basic concepts – e.g. developing a compelling statement of need, designing-based practices and logic models, preparing program budgets – used to prepare an application
Learn more
DC Tuition Assistance Grant (DC TAG)
The DC Tuition Assistance Grant (DC TAG) is now open. Students are encouraged to apply early. No applications or supporting documents will be accepted after June 30, 2015 or until funds are exhausted, whichever comes first. For more information, call 202 727 2824.
Data Privacy: What Your Nonprofit Needs To Know
This webinar will focus on why data privacy matters and why your nonprofit should be concerned. It will address the distinction between data privacy and data security and address privacy policy recommendations and best practices; how to respond to a data security breach in order to meet your legal and fiduciary obligations and privacy-related considerations in handling information from third parties. The webinar is free of charge.
Learn more
The Mayor’s Office of Partnerships and Grant Services (OPGS): Doing Business with District Government Agencies
The Mayor’s Office of Partnerships and Grant Services (OPGS) will offer a forum comprised of DC Government agencies to discuss their existing and funding opportunities for FY 2015. The panel will also discuss what they look for in their review of proposals and the key elements after receiving the grant awards that speak to the potential for renewal or reapplying for future funding. The following agencies have been invited to participate: Department of Employment Services, Department of Health, Office of Victim Services/Justice Grants Administration, Department of the Environment, Office of the State Superintendent, Serve DC/AmeriCorps, Office of the Deputy Mayor for Planning & Economic Development, and Office of the Chief Technology.
Learn more
Social Innovation Fund (CNCS)
Corporation for National and Community Service announces funds to support intermediaries, provide grants to, and otherwise support high-performing community-based nonprofit organizations to implement evidence-based programs in the areas of healthy futures, economic opportunity and youth development.
Eligibility: Nonprofit intermediary organizations
Deadline: 3/17/2015
Funds: $51,000,000 is available for awards up to $10,000,000 and a match is required
Contact: Corporation for National and Community Service at (202) 606-3223 or SIFApplicant@cns.gov
Grant ID: GD5844
Learn more
DC Health Link
As the final deadline for enrollment in 2015 coverage nears, DC Health Link will accelerate its efforts to inform consumers about the upcoming February 15, 2015 deadline for enrolling or renewing coverage. The basic messaging will include: “As a reminder, February 15, the deadline to get health insurance coverage for 2015, is quickly approaching. So, DON’T DELAY, ENROLL TODAY! “We encourage consumers to shop, compare and enroll in quality affordable health insurance through the DC Health Link marketplace. Individuals and families can get coverage beginning as low as $100 per month! Consumers may qualify for financial help!
Learn more
Mind-Body Connections: Seven Habits of Holistic Well-Being
Want to go about your day feeling grounded, less stressed, and more connected to what matters most in your life? This series of mindfulness-based workshops is designed to inspire, recharge, and provide you with practical tools you can use in your everyday living and working for a greater sense of well-being.
Where: 3700 O St NW | McShain Lounge (Small), McCarthy Hall
When: Wednesday, March 11, 2015 |1:00 pm to 2:00 pm |Washington, DC
Learn more
Your Child's Development 2015: A Resource and Information Fair
Please join the Arlington Early Intervention Interagency Coordinating Council (AEIIC) at the free 7th Annual Child Development Resource and Information Fair which will provide an opportunity for Arlington families and caregivers who work with infants and preschoolers up to age 5 to obtain information and resources to better meet the needs of children.
When: Saturday, February 28, 2015|9:00am-12:00pm
Where: Walter Reed Community Center|2909 16th Street| Arlington, VA|22204
Learn more
 National Institute of Health Study - ClinSeq
The CLINSEQ® Study is a project that seeks to learn about the role that your genes play in your health. We do this by getting a DNA sample from you, sequencing most or all of your genes, and then comparing that to what we know about your personal and family health histories.
Learn more
 Call for Performers: Music on the Mall
The DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities (DCCAH), in conjunction with the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority's Art in Transit program, and Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton, presents Music on the Mall. Music on the Mall will feature lunchtime performances by District of Columbia acoustic musicians and spoken word artists on the National Mall each Tuesday from May to August 2015. Submission Deadline: March 30, 2015. For more information, contact Ebony Brown, DCCAH Special Events Manager, at ebony.brown@dc.gov or 202-724-5613.
Entrepreneur Fellowship for Women
The Entrepreneur Fellowship program empowers the whole woman. Through personalized attention, peer support and a collaborative approach, women build confidence and self-esteem. Fellows gain business acumen and build strong networks that help them build a micro-enterprise or successfully pursue employment. Candidates are immigrant, refugee and American-born women from diverse cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds who share a vision, passion and determination for developing a micro-enterprise.
Learn more
National Arts and Humanities Youth Program Awards
The National Arts and Humanities Youth Program Awards, sponsored by the President's Committee on the Arts and the Humanities, recognize excellence in after-school and out-of-school arts and humanities programs for under served children and youth. These programs offer high-quality and intensive instruction on weekends, afternoons, and summer vacations, providing a safe and productive space for young people in the hours when they are often the most vulnerable. Twelve winners will receive a $10,000 award and an invitation to accept their award at a White House ceremony. Programs initiated by museums, libraries, performing arts organizations; schools and universities, arts centers, community service organizations, and government agencies are encouraged to apply.
Learn more
District of Columbia Government Surplus Property Program
If your non-profit organization needs, desk, chairs, table, computer etc. and don’t have the funds to purchase them the District of Columbia’s State Agency for Surplus Property will provide you with information on how to access the surplus property. For more information contact Chante Harvey Dorsey at chante.dorsey@dc.gov or 202-576-6472.
#AccessArtDC: Advancing Cultural Equity and Cultural Access in DC
The DC Professional Chapter of Engineers Without Borders is working in Mbokop, Cameroon to improve drinking water quality and health through engineering and WASH interventions. It is an exciting time in the project, as two assessment trips have been completed and the team is entering the design phase. Celebrating World Water Day seemed fitting for this group, and we hope you can celebrate with us at this event!
Where: EatsPlace |3607 Georgia Ave NW | Washington, DC 20010
When: Monday, February 16, 2015 | 6:00pm to 10:30pm
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EatsPlace EWB-DC Cameroon Dinner Fundraiser
The DC Professional Chapter of Engineers Without Borders is working in Mbokop, Cameroon to improve drinking water quality and health through engineering and WASH interventions. It is an exciting time in the project, as two assessment trips have been completed and the team is entering the design phase. Celebrating World Water Day seemed fitting for this group, and we hope you can celebrate with us at this event!
Where: EatsPlace |3607 Georgia Ave NW | Washington, DC 20010
When: Monday, February 16, 2015 | 6:00pm to 10:30pm
Re-envisioning Roosevelt High School - A Community Discussion
Hear updates from District of Columbia Public School officials, ask questions and give your input on the process.
Where:Petworth Library PET Meeting Room|4200 Kansas Avenue NW|Washington, DC
When: Wednesday, February 18th, 2015|6:00pm-8:00pm
The New Frontier: From Poverty to an Investment Hub - Redefining Africa
The African Justice Initiative presents a symposium that will compare Africa's relationship to China and the USA. The panel will discuss the economic impact of China and USA’s foreign policies on the African continent including the anticipated impact of the BRICS lending institution on the continent. The Second panel will discuss challenges and successes in getting a job or starting a business in Africa.
Where:American University Washington College of Law|4801 Massachusetts Avenue, NW, Room 603
When: Tuesday,February 17th, 2015| 9 am-12 pm
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Want Your Event Featured in the African Beat
'The African Beat' is distributed to over 7,000 subscribers every other Friday. If you would like to submit your event to be included in our calendar, please submit the following event details: what, when, & where, and provide a link to where readers can go for more information. Submission deadline for the next edition is Wednesday, February 11, 2015 at 5:00 pm (Send all materials, along with any questions, to oaa@dc.gov).
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