At LAYC, everything we do supports youth development, and one way to encourage youth development is through youth expression. This is why the LAYC Teen Center is so special: it provides creative outlets to youth through which they can express themselves, come together, and engage in various activities. In short, a place where youth get to simply be themselves.

One of the signature projects to come out of the Teen Center is WLAYC Radio. This platform allows youth to express their ideas, discuss issues, and make their voices heard. Over the years, various classes have participated in WLAYC such as STRIPES, which focuses on LGBTQ issues and advocacy through art and radio. The content produced is scripted, recorded, edited by youth participants, and posted on the WLAYC webpage and SoundCloud.

***“We have the freedom of our opinions.”***

Two recent episodes follow a specific theme, "Where I'm From," which gives youth a chance to express their upbringing through poetry. The “Clickbait” episode features youth expression in its purest form, covering topics they chose such as local conspiracy theories, urban legends, and even relationship advice!

In collaboration with DC Action and American University (AU), the AU Humanities Truck, also put LAYC youth expression on center stage. The Youth Voices Youth Power Project, a manifestation of DC Action’s beliefs, is using the Humanities Truck to collect and highlight stories from young people. These stories cover various topics such as identity, trauma, public health, school, and adults. One of the topics that DC Action and LAYC collaborated on is the life of queer individuals in the DC area and the changes they would like to see.

Whether it’s recording their story, podcasting, creating art, or another creative outlet, the Teen Center aims to cater to the diverse needs and interests of our youth needed to properly express themselves (gallery below). For example, many programs within the center cover specific skills like learning to play the guitar, exploring photography, and more. The Teen Center is a testament to the incredible abilities of our youth, who are capable of everything from podcasting and crocheting to graffiti and dancing salsa. Their creativity is truly remarkable. If you are a teen or know someone who may benefit from all that the Teen Center has to offer, we recommend checking out our summer camps or after-school programs. Drop by Monday-Thursday during the school year between 3:30 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. and ask any one of our Teen Center staff for info or email marie@layc-dc.org.

And if you didn’t know what the Teen Center did before, now you do.