DC National Guard Welcomes 2024 Mayor Marion S. Barry Summer Youth Employment Program (MBSYEP)

WASHINGTON – The bamboo tree has long been a metaphor for growth, potential and resilience. It flexes and withstands storms and anything else Mother Nature throws at it. But it is also a tree whose origin is planted and nurtured in cultivated land. It’s a reminder that success often requires the right nourishment, maintenance and support.

“It’s a process of patience, discipline and cultivation to reach deep roots of integrity, hard work and goals that come true,” said Marcus Hunt, director of DC Government Operations-DCNG.

Hunt welcomed members of the 2024 Marion Barry Summer Youth Employment Program to the DC Armory, June 26. The DC National Guard cohort is comprised of young adults ages 18-21 who will not only be exposed to dynamic careers, but will also learn and develop the skills, attitudes, and dedication necessary to succeed in the environment of today’s work.

“It’s an opportunity to get a bird’s-eye view of the professional workplace,” Hunt said. “What’s beneficial about working at the DC Armory is that you’re exposed to the DC government, the federal government, the US Army and the US Air Force—our participants see all aspects of it. And each branch brings intangibles to better support the community and the nation. The question our participants must ask themselves is where do they fit into the mold.”

Participants gain hands-on experience, mentorship and a sense of purpose, much like the roots of a bamboo tree. The DC National Guard has approximately 12 sections open for MBSYEP participants who will work on projects through August. 2.

“You’re going to spend most of your life working, so pick something you love to do and be passionate about when you get up,” May said. General. John C. Andonie, commanding general (interim), DC National Guard.

During a question-and-answer session at the group’s orientation day, the top D.C. National Guard leader also highlighted the opportunities, networks and connections that set D.C. apart from other regions.

“It’s a great place to be, so if you’re not taking full advantage of it, you’re missing out,” he said.

The meeting left a lasting impression on the participants, making it an unforgettable start to their summer experience. They also took a tour of the DC National Guard Museum, highlighting over 222 years of service. The lineage of the DC National Guard is indelibly linked to the history of the district and communities. It is also a reminder of evolution, growth and change.

“We’ve heard a lot of goals — graduate college, become a lawyer or an HVAC tech, but I don’t want them to forget the process and the journey it took to become a bamboo tree that stands tall,” Hunt said.

The Mayor Marion S. Barry Summer Youth Employment Program (MBSYEP) is a locally funded initiative sponsored by the Department of Employment Services (DOES) that provides district youth ages 14 to 24 years of enriching and constructive summer work experiences through subsidized placements in the private and government sectors. Mayor Muriel E. Bowser signed Mayoral Order 2015-037 on January 14, 2015, to rename the program the Mayor Marion S. Barry Summer Youth Employment Program in honor of the former Mayor and founder of MBSYEP Marion Barry.