"We knew Kid Power was something special from the very beginning. It was grounded in a very simple idea: the power of young people is boundless, and we just need to get out of the way." -Max Skolnik, Co-Founder-
OUR HISTORY & MISSION
Kid Power, Inc. envisions an equitable future where all DC youth feel valued, capable, and have the agency to improve the world around them.
Kid Power was co-founded in 2002 by Max Skolnik and Caroline Sholl, who believed that young people are powerful agents of positive change. Today, that vision thrives as youth embrace their strengths, advocate for themselves, and lead with purpose, creating brighter futures for themselves and their communities.
With leadership central to our programs, we believe in the limitless potential of every young person. Our expanded learning programs are designed to amplify the strengths of DC youth, helping them grow into confident leaders and changemakers within their communities. Each year, we serve hundreds of students, supporting their academic success, nurturing their leadership skills, and promoting healthy living through initiatives like community gardening. Our programs inspire young people to excel academically, embrace their unique voices, and take meaningful action to create positive change.
Each year, Kid Power supports hundreds of young people in achieving academic success, inspiring them to become engaged leaders, responsible citizens, and advocates for healthy living. Guided by a commitment to youth voice, Kid Power emphasizes service-learning and student-led development opportunities resulting in academic proficiency, engagement in community action, and preparation for career and life.
A Timeline of Transformation
Launching Our Mission
Initial programming began with an inaugural class of 12 students at Miner Elementary School, laying the foundation for youth empowerment and leadership development.
Expanding Through Partnerships
In 2008 and 2011, acquired two nonprofits that work with youth East of the Anacostia River: Linking Communities for Educational Success and Facilitating Leadership in Youth, respectively.
Investing in Learning
In 2013, awarded a multi-year 21st Century Learning Center grant by the Office of State Superintendent of Education (OSSE) to serve an additional 150 youth across Washington, DC.
Deepening Impact in Wards 7 and 8
In 2014, strategically increased resources to areas of greatest need, focusing efforts on serving more youth in Wards 7 and 8.
New Office and Community Recognition
In 2015, Kid Power opened a second office at 400 E St SW, rent-free through a partnership with the E St. Development Group. Recognized as a Community Cornerstone by Councilmember Anita Bonds the same year, Kid Power received the “Richard Greene Caring for Children Award” in 2016.
Serving More Students
2016 marked the launch of Kid Power’s largest program site at J.O. Wilson Elementary School, where 150 students are served daily.
Celebrating 15 Years
In 2017, Kid Power celebrated its 15th Anniversary with civil rights icon Congressman John Lewis.
Strengthening Resources
2018 Kid Power secured a three-year, $408,000 21st Century Learning Center grant to further our mission.
Mentoring Expansion and Recognition
2019 Kid Power acquired Mentors Inc., a 32-year-old nonprofit, to support middle and high school students. Recognized for its impact, Kid Power was included in Washingtonian’s “22 Washington-Area Charities Where a Donation of Any Size Has Impact.”
Highlighting Leadership
In 2020, Executive Director Andria Tobin was featured on DCTV’s IMPACT, and the Mentoring Program was spotlighted in Maryland Mentor’s 500 campaign on NBC4.
Credit Card Advertising Campaign
Brex featured Kid Power in its national campaign, showcasing Executive Director Andria Tobin and Alumna Felicity Poussaint through videos and billboards in DC, Miami, and Houston.
Addressing Pandemic Learning Loss
In 2021, Kid Power piloted an evidence-based High-Impact Tutoring Program, expanding it to serve 800 students at Savoy and Malcolm X Elementary Schools through a $1.3M grant.
“So Kids Can” Campaign
Selected as the 2020-2021 Washington Capitals beneficiary for their community-focused initiative. Learn more.
Mentoring with the Mystics
In 2022, selected as one of nine DC-based programs for the Washington Mystics Mentoring Initiative pilot.
Pandemic Food Support
Hosted 52 Produce Pop-Ups, distributing 13,750 pounds of food to students, families, and community members.
Recognized for Excellence
In 2023, inducted into Spur Local’s class of “highly trusted and critical nonprofits in the Greater Washington region.”
