WASHINGTON, DC – Aug. 13, 2024 –Today, Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Washington (BGCGW) and CohnReznick announced that they will be working together to provide hands-on professional development learning experiences to BGCGW teens and young adults as they enter the workforce and make crucial decisions about career paths. The initiative, which includes a $100,000 donation from CohnReznick and the CohnReznick Foundation, will include four activations focusing on holistic support in the following key areas: professional development, community service, career preparation, and academic success. The first activation, scheduled for August 2024, included close to 20 BGCGW teens and focused on professional development, while the other activations are scheduled during “back to school” season, the holiday season, and through a community service event. 

A 2023 report from the U.S. Department of Labor found that only 55 percent of U.S. youth aged 16-24 were employed, a figure that has remained relatively stagnant since the COVID-19 pandemic. Given the number of youths seeking employment opportunities in the D.C. area, CohnReznick’s support is part of BGCGW’s larger initiatives to promote healthy communities by providing unique opportunities to youth through programming and experiences. 

CohnReznick Bethesda Office Managing Partner Michael Harlow notes: “Strengthening communities is a pillar of CohnReznick’s purpose as a firm. As such, we continue to find ways to increase our engagement with outstanding charitable organizations that are making an impact in the communities where we live and work. With the generous support of the CohnReznick Foundation, we are thrilled to be able to make such a substantial gift to BGCGW and help them to advance their mission. Furthermore, we look forward to the many opportunities we will have to personally connect with and mentor students throughout the DC area as they chart their career paths.”

BGCGW President & CEO Gabrielle Webster had this to say: “BGCGW is thrilled to establish this critical collaboration with CohnReznick, a firm known throughout the area for excellence and commitment to empowering communities. Their proven-track record of service underscores our shared goals of ensuring that the next generation of leaders are prepared and equipped with the tools needed for successful careers in a multitude of sectors. We are confident that this initiative will not only expose BGCGW teens to critical information regarding career readiness, but also position them for academic success in both secondary school and higher education.” 

About Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Washington 
The mission of Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Washington is to help boys and girls of all backgrounds, especially those who need us most, build confidence, develop character and acquire the skills needed to become productive, civic-minded and responsible adults. BGCGW offers a variety of programs in character and leadership development, education, career development, the arts, health and wellness, sports and recreation. For more information, visit www.bgcgw.org.