MLOV runs the only youth program in DC that is led by and is for immigrant youth. We provide refugee and immigrant youth with pathways to academic success, civic/social engagement, and leadership/empowerment through after-school and summer programming.

Our programming is culturally and linguistically appropriate, addressing issues specific to the experiences of low-income immigrant and English Learner youth, i.e., multilingual instruction, cultural identity exploration, peer socialization, and culturally responsive policies, procedures, and practices.

Since 2022, we have engaged over 100 youth for recurring weekly programming. Further, every summer MLOV trains 30+ immigrant youth of color, originally from dozens of different countries, in community organizing, power building, and political advocacy through our Summer Youth Program.

New student leaders continue to participate in year-round programming as part of the year-around programing and our Youth Leadership Council. Our program focuses on 1) addressing youth social-emotional needs, 2) providing academic support, and 3) catalyzing youth-led social change campaigns. Recent campaigns have focused on Cancel Rent, racial equity, worker rights, and food justice in DC public schools.

MLOV youth members represent the only immigrant student organizing body in the District advocating for lasting improvements in public education for vulnerable students, by vulnerable students. The youth team provides a safe space for young people in the District who share a common trajectory to come together and share their experiences, while forming a powerful message in resistance to the challenges they face in their communities.

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