The Latin American Youth Center (LAYC) works to create a future where all youth have the skills and self-confidence to reach for their dreams. Their mission is “to empower a diverse population of youth to achieve a successful transition to adulthood, through multi-cultural, comprehensive, and innovative programs that address youths’ social, academic, and career needs.”
LAYC has over 50 programs and services across D.C. and Prince George’s County and Montgomery County in Maryland. The programs they offer include:
- Academics: year-round tutoring and homework assistance, after-school programs, GED exam preparation and education, and college preparation and retention.
- Arts and Recreation: art and media programs, out of school time recreation, and mentoring.
- Job Readiness: job readiness and life skills training, job placement services, internships, and career exploration.
- Safe Housing: short- and long-term family-based and transitional living programs for homeless and runaway youth with special programs for young families and LGBTQ-identifying youth.
- Health and Wellness: welcoming, non-clinical settings for sexual health education and HIV/STI/pregnancy testing and counseling, mental health and substance use disorders treatment, and parenting skills of young parents.
For over 50 years, the Latin American Youth Center has transformed the lives of low-income young people and their families. Their broad array of programs and services provides a valuable resource to NRS’ crisis services hotline so youth in the D.C. area can receive the support they need.
The Latin American Youth Center is one of nearly 7,000 resources in NRS’ database. Although 1-800-RUNAWAY and 1800RUNAWAY.org are available 24/7 for youth in crisis, the LAYC provides on-ground support to at-risk youth. NRS is proud to be a partner in their mission.
