Through friends in my community, I learned about the Capital Area REACH Program, a nonprofit organization serving youth in the Washington, D.C., metro area. Volunteers support and mentor youth, teaching them skills for the future. I predominately spend my time volunteering with middle and high school aged girls who live in the Garfield Terrace Center; a public housing facility located in Southeast D.C., that lost public funding for after school and summer programs due to budget constraints.

Building a Strong Work Ethic

REACH has a great success rate for post-secondary education and job placement. My goal for working with these girls is to show them that being underprivileged doesn't limit what they can achieve in life.

I try to engage them in activates where conversation is free flowing, like going out to eat or community service activities. From these conversations, we've come up with ways to instill a firm foundation for their work ethic. Through completing chores and assisting with various projects, they have each demonstrated a strong work ethic.

Through a reward system, we hope to begin positive work habits that prepare them for their futures. These girls have the ability and tools necessary to go far in life, if they are willing to put in the work.

Leading by Example

To inspire these girls, you have to be willing to spend time with them, develop personal relationships, and earn their respect. Then you can communicate the importance of education, work, and family.

Since joining Dewberry in 2010, after completing my doctorate, my work as a coastal scientist in the climate change field requires me to stay up-to-date with current global events, continue my education and training, build relationships with clients, and stay on top of my projects. Balancing work with family is also a priority.

Using myself as an example, I stress the importance of education and building a future to the girls in the REACH program. I look forward to keeping a solid relationship with each of these girls as they get older, in hopes that I can continue making a positive difference in their lives.

If you are interested in making the difference in the lives of D.C. youth, go to www.capitalreach.org to learn more about the Capital Area REACH program.