Safe & Strong DC
Since August, my Administration has implemented a comprehensive strategy to make our city safer and stronger. As part of that strategy, we are providing resources and support to communities that have been hard hit by crime - so that we can break the cycle of violence. This week marked an important milestone in this effort. I joined DC Children and Youth Investment Trust Corporation Executive Director Ed Davies to announce the first round of Community Partnership Mini-Grants, which will support neighborhood-based organizations that provide services in Langston/Carver, Lincoln Heights, Benning Terrace, Woodland Terrace and Congress Park. The District awarded nearly $780,000 to 28 groups that work on violence prevention and mediation, mentoring, youth enrichment programs, and family support. But this was just round one. If you think you or your organization would be a good candidate for the next round of mini grants, please visit the DC Trust’s website for more information.
Getting District Residents Job-ready
Last week, I attended DC Department of Employment Services’ Project Empowerment Program graduation. The program provides job readiness training, work experience, and job search assistance to District residents who face multiple barriers to employment. At the ceremony, we also announced a groundbreaking partnership with Citi Community Development and Capital Area Asset Builders to help some of our low income residents become more financially stable.
Check out coverage from local NBC4 Washington reporter Mark Segraves, below:
Run, Girls, Run!
On Sunday, more than 500 girls came out to Anacostia Park in Southeast for the annual Girls on the Run 5k. Throughout my first year in office, I’ve been promoting healthy lifestyles through FitDC, a health and wellness initiative that encourages residents in all eight wards to get out and get active. I want to thank to Girls on the Run for helping us make the District a healthier place to live, work and play.
DC Supports Small and Local Businesses
Small and local businesses are the backbone of our community and a driving force in our economy. Last week, I cut the ribbon at the Tiny Jewel Box, a family-owned jewelry store that opened their doors 85 years ago in the District. We want to make sure that small businesses can have the same kind of success that Tiny Jewel has had. The District’s Department of Small and Local Business Development (DSLBD) offers a variety of resources to small and local businesses, including workshops and training sessions. Find out more on the DSLBD website.
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