D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser joined leaders and participants Monday at the launch of the Youth Development Professional Certification program, a new collaboration between the D.C. Department of Parks and Recreation and the George Washington University Center for Excellence in Public Leadership.
The program, the first of its kind in the Washington region, provides individuals passionate about youth with access to education, training and meaningful connections with thought leaders in the field.
“Youth development professionals play a critical role in shaping the future of our city, and this program is an innovative way of ensuring they have the tools and networks to succeed,” Bowser said. “This certification program is more than professional development — it’s an investment in the people who mentor, guide and inspire young Washingtonians every day.”
The comprehensive nine-month program equips participants with the skills, knowledge and strategies needed to mentor and support youth in educational and community settings.
“The YDPC program is a powerful reflection of the commitment we have at DPR to both serving young people and to investing in our people through professional development,” DPR Director Thennie Freeman said. “It demonstrates our belief that youth development is a critical field, and we recognize that providing practitioners with the right tools, knowledge and resources is essential to ensuring that they can excel in their craft and make a lasting difference in the lives of the young people they serve.”
Designed to foster both personal and professional growth, the pilot program will engage 30 participants through monthly sessions, leadership coaching, peer coaching, mentoring, a capstone project and more. By the end of the program, participants will be certified as youth development professionals, prepared to make a meaningful impact on youth in the District and beyond.
Additionally, Bowser proclaimed February 2025 as Youth Development Professional Month in the District, honoring the contributions of youth development professionals citywide. In recognition of this effort, DPR is hosting a series of workshops on youth development throughout February.