This past Friday we celebrated the graduation of 81 amazing teens participating in the longstanding Y New Horizons II summer enrichment and workforce development program for students experiencing homelessness. Every year this program gives a cohort of bright, positive and responsible young students the opportunity to build a solid foundation for their dreams, interests and aspirations.
David Miller, the founder of the Dare to Be King Project, spoke at the graduation, acknowledging that too many young people today are faced with adult challenges, and challenged those of us who are adults to figure out a way to support them.
Guided by the work of author Don Miguel, David shared with the students “four agreements” to consider as they go about their day-to-day lives:
- Understanding that they are gifted and that each and every one of them are uniquely made. It is particularly important that young people understand who they are and the gifts, talents and treasures they possess;
- The need to have adults in their life who will ride with them; in fact, building a tribe of adults who will support them no matter what;
- That not everything has to go on Instagram! Being mindful about what they post on social media and considering how it may impact their professional future;
- The need to fight for their place in society given that they live in a city where there seems to be more opportunity for young people to do the wrong thing, rather than the right thing. He encouraged them to be prepared to fight for their future, because they absolutely deserve it.
Mr. Miller’s moving keynote was accompanied by a few student speakers who spoke from the heart about their experience with the program. They included:
- Natan Gebre: “I joined this program two years ago, and it has been crucial in helping me find my gifts. The connections I have made are invaluable.”
- Kamarrah Green: “I was so excited to work for Youthworks, not only because I was getting paid, but it was my first job! My experience at the Y in Druid Hill has been so amazing. I really enjoy working with kids!”
- Yasharah Hall: “I have had a great time making friends, learning information about the real world and being exposed to so many business opportunities!”
The inspiring morning concluded with chicken, waffles, and endless laughs in the inflatable photo booth.
For more about this year’s Y New Horizons II program and students, take a look at this short video.
I want to thank the Y’s New Horizons II’s supporters, funders, worksite hosts, and partners for their time and commitment to this program and young people. A special thank you to Y associates Demetriece Thomas, Marie Beasley, James Hall, Tasha Judkins, Kendra Able, and Joseph White for making all of this happen.
I will leave you with some parting words from Baltimore County educator James Hall as he handed out completion certificates to the students. “New Horizons II is a beautiful program. Thank you to everyone who supports this work and for giving students the opportunity to put themselves in situations to make them successful.”
I couldn’t have said it any better!
All the best,
John K. Hoey
President & CEO
The Y in Central Maryland