(Washington, DC) Mayor Adrian M. Fenty, Councilmember Marion Barry, Councilmember Harry “Tommy” Thomas Jr. and The Department of Parks and Recreation announced today that the Malcolm X after-school program, located at Malcolm X Elementary School, 1351 Alabama Avenue, SE will remain open through FY2008.
“Malcolm X plays an integral role in the community. It has been a safe haven in the neighborhood that provides educational and recreation wrap around services for children to enjoy,” said DPR Acting Director Clark Ray.
The program provides educational and enrichment programs for local residents which include homework assistance, mentoring, skating, arts and crafts, cheerleading, games, boxing, Young Ladies on the Rise, tennis, flag football, swimming and teen movie night. The facility is open daily from 3–9 pm.
The center was funded originally through the Ward 8 Initiative, which expires September 30, 2007. The goal of the initiative is to motivate, encourage and prepare youth residing in Ward 8 to be productive members of society. In consultation with The Boys and Girls Clubs of Great Washington (BCGW) the initiative directs an additional $1 million to provide recreational programming that supports the community. Programming includes activities that promote leadership skills, life-skills, job readiness techniques, fitness and health programs, socialization and access to art and culture.