DIW sets promising, high-needs youth on a path toward college by supplying educational resources and instilling values of intellectual curiosity and discipline.
Through our partnership with Rise D.C., all DIW students receive access to tutoring, college counseling, standardized test preparation, and more—all free of charge. We also collaborate with the Swaliga Foundation to provide students with additional training in engineering design and applied sciences.
DIW opened a Comcast Lift Zone learning center on campus, supplying students with free internet access to complete their homework or attend virtual classes. We were then awarded a large grant from the William S. Abell Foundation to equip it with 25 computers.
In 2020, DIW helped 60% of regular attendees improve math grades and 44% improve English grades. DIW students improved in behavior, participation, and homework completion at school. 100% of students completed at least one audition, performance, and art-based project.
Upon graduation from DIW, 95% of students go on to college, enter prestigious dance institutions, or successfully enter the workforce. DIW supports youth and their families as they work towards bright, stable, accomplished futures.
