At Latin American Youth Center (LAYC), we understand that home is not just a place—it's a foundation for stability, growth, and success. That’s where our Transitional Living Program (TLP) and Host Homes program comes in, offering a crucial lifeline to youth experiencing housing instability. 

On October 15, LAYC Conservation Corps members embarked on a one-day camp retreat at Little Bennet Campground, where they focused on team bonding, reconnecting with nature, and developing leadership skills.  The retreat provided participants the opportunity to step away from their daily routines and bond with their fellow members and staff. 

We are happy to announce Candice Willmore as our newest board member! Candice brings extensive experience, a strong dedication to community service, and a genuine passion for empowering youth—traits that resonate deeply with our mission. 

On July 29, our LAYC Rita Bright youth and staff came together to honor and celebrate Wendy Martinez's life in a day filled with joy, creativity, and community spirit. The event was marked by both celebration and remembrance as students participated in a variety of engaging activities, each reflecting Wendy’s passions and dedication to community service.

We are thrilled to announce and welcome Yvonna Stevens, as our new Board Chair of the Board of Directors at Latin American Youth Center!

March is Social Work Month, and it is a time to recognize and celebrate the invaluable contributions of social workers in creating positive change. This year’s theme is “Empowering Social Workers,” as recognized by National Association of Social Workers, highlights the crucial role social workers play in advocating for the rights and well-being of marginalized communities.

Storytelling is an art form that transcends boundaries and expands hope. Whether shared on their social media channels, recorded on podcasts, or exchanged in day-in-day interactions, it is important for youth to bring to life their lived experiences and perspectives. One way that our youth are voicing their stories is by becoming published authors!

An exciting trend is picking up at LAYC: welcoming team members from well outside the DMV. For #HispanicHeritageMonth, we asked 4 "new(ish)" members their thoughts on working in an org that serves over 2,000 Latina/o youth yearly. See what they said.

The latest cohort of AmeriCorps members celebrated their closing ceremony, making for an ideal time to reflect on the program’s life-changing nature.

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.

LAYC finished its first spring cohort for PYD! The feedback was positive. Staff learned and engaged with other team members outside their departments.

LAYC is thrilled to welcome Jaliel Amador, Sales Vice President for Public Sector at UnitedHealthcare, as the latest member of our Board of Directors!

Read about an ongoing partnership since that has made DoorDash one of LAYC’s strongest allies in fighting food insecurity in the regions we serve.

Gala 2023 was an unforgettable evening of elevating youth voices. From our youth panel to honoring community stalwarts who honor youth perspective, the evening will make an indelible mark on all who attended.

LAYC’s Food & Nutrition program is growing rapidly! Fresh produce in our pantry, more & more nutrition classes, a newly-planted garden and more mean a bright future for a program ensuring our youth’s health is a priority!

On February 16, 2023, the DC History Center, with its Latino/a/x Advisory Group, presented Movements + Moments: Latinx Youth Organizing, hosted at the Latin American Youth Center. Watch two titans of Latinx histories in DC immortalize in the public forum.

On World Social Work Day, join LAYC in recognizing the essential, multifaceted efforts that our social workers embark on every day to support our community.