Washington, DC

(WASHINGTON, DC) – Mayor Bowser today announced that the District has already matched more than 1,000 Washingtonians with job opportunities as part of this summer’s 1000 Opportunities initiative. The initiative was launched earlier this summer as part of a comprehensive plan to create new pathways to employment and support violence prevention efforts across the District, particularly in neighborhoods that have experienced spikes in violence.

“With the help of our community partners, the 1000 Opportunities initiative has already surpassed the original goal, and we’re not slowing down,” said Mayor Bowser. “As we continue the work of building a safer, stronger DC, we’re going to stay focused on getting Washingtonians connected to the programs and opportunities they need to succeed and live happy, healthy lives.”  

The goal of the 1000 Opportunities initiative is to connect at least 1,000 DC residents in neighborhoods hardest hit by unemployment and violence with meaningful work and job training experiences within 90 days. Eleven weeks into the initiative, the Administration has surpassed its goal, placing 1,180 residents in various opportunities throughout the District. The Department of Employment Services provided training opportunities through Project Empowerment, DC Quick Path to Transportation, and Back to Work 50+. Many providers such as ArtsGroup, LAYC Career Academy, and WHY Hotel were instrumental in providing opportunities for promising job seekers. The 1000 Opportunities initiative continues through September, and interested DC residents can learn more and apply at 1kopportunitiesdc.com.

Led by the Office of the Deputy Mayor for Public Safety and Justice, the Office of the Deputy Mayor for Greater Economic Opportunity, and the Office of the City Administrator, this milestone is one of many accomplished as part of the broader Safer, Stronger DC initiative this summer. In 60 days, through the Safer, Stronger DC initiative, DC Government teams successfully:

• hosted 40 community events, including movie nights, block parties, and back to school events;
• enrolled more than 350 at-risk youth in a free summer enrichment program at Savoy Elementary School;
• engaged an estimated 5,900 residents in a series of recreational events to provide fun, safe activities for residents of all ages; and
• expanded residential clean teams to beautify areas most impacted by violence.

Residents interested in employment opportunities are encouraged to attend the 1000 Opportunities conference on Saturday, September 15 from 10 am -2 pm at the DC Infrastructure Academy (2330 Pomeroy Road, SE) to learn more about opportunities, get resume advice, or hone their interview skills.