WBL uses the transformative power of hip-hop to equip young adults for college and career. Its workshops, concerts, festivals, and after-school programs embrace hip-hop — a valued part of youth culture that instructors also share — in all its forms. Students learn about emceeing and deejaying; they develop skills in graffiti, street art, spoken word poetry, dance, and beat production. An arts management curriculum and alternative spring and winter breaks introduce students to career opportunities in DC's creative sector. Each student is also paired with a volunteer coach during the academic year, receiving regular guidance on the college application and enrollment process. For the 800 students enrolled in the program, WBL staff and volunteers are some of the only college graduates in their lives. WBL shows young people what they are capable of — with preparation and a supportive community behind them.

Information coming soon

Awards & Recognition

n/a

Press

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Budget (FY0)

  • $3 million or higher
  • $1 million to $3 million
  • $500k to $1 million
  • Less than $500k

Catalogue charities range in size from $100,000 to $3 million. This graphic indicates the budget range of the organization featured here. If you see an organizational budget above the $3 million mark, that is because the featured charity has grown in size since it first appeared in the Catalogue. We proudly present on our website the work of these "growth" charities.

About Spur Local

Each year 150+ community advocates review applicants on the basis of governance, equity, and impact. Each featured nonprofit has been successfully site visited and its financials given the thumbs up. Spur Local charges no fees and raises funds separately to support its work. Since 2003, it has raised over $57 million for nonprofits across the Greater Washington region.

Spur Local looks to friends like you to keep our services independent and entirely free of charge. Consider a small contribution to Spur Local to cap off your gift and help the causes you care about get the full support they deserve!

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