[Archived] Alexandria Again Named One of 100 Best Communities for Young People

Alexandria was again named one of America’s Promise Alliance’s 100 Best Communities for Young People. The national award, presented by ING, was given to the City in recognition of its outstanding and innovative work in addressing the high school dropout crisis and for its programs and services that make the City a great place for youth to live, learn and grow.

Alexandria, a five-time 100 Best winner, enhances the quality of life for its youth through various academic and after-school programs. The Alexandria City Public Schools is in the second year of a five-year Strategic Plan to close the achievement gap through pre-school and special education programs, individual achievement plans, more course offerings and a new curriculum. This strategic plan recently won a Magna Award, a national program sponsored in part by the National School Boards Association, which recognizes best practices and innovative programs that advance student learning.

Outside of school, youth benefit from the Fund for Alexandria’s Child, which promotes community awareness and support for foster children and youth at risk of abuse and neglect. Monies raised by the Fund allow these children to participate in activities that other children take for granted such as dance, art or karate lessons, summer camps, field trips, scouting and team sports. At-risk pre-teen girls in Alexandria can join the Space of Her Own mentorship program to take classes on healthy habits, communications and art. At the end of the program, each girl refurbishes her bedroom with her own art projects.

In recognition of this achievement, Alexandria will receive a $2,500 grant, signage identifying the community as one of the nation’s 100 Best Communities for Young People, and access to America’s Promise Alliance’s community development resources.

For more information, contact Ron Frazier, Director of Youth Services, Department of Human and Community Services, at 703.746.5967 or ron.frazier@alexandriava.gov.