The Washington Commanders’ wide receiver Terry McLaurin has launched a new initiative to help young people in Northern Virginia and DC develop job-readiness skills.
Thursday, May 8, was the launch of the Terry McLaurin Full Circle Jobs Program, in partnership with the nonprofit Mobile Hope and Nace Law Group. This new initiative plans to help more than 200 local youths obtain valuable job readiness support before entering the workforce, ranging from soft skills to technical training.
“Through this program, it allows them to learn more about themselves and learn what it’s like to be in the workforce,” said McLaurin. “I’m super excited to get this picked up and see the impact that it has on the community.”
Mobile Hope is a Leesburg-based charity that provides shelter, food, transportation, and clothing for at-risk youth up to age 24. CEO and founder Donna Fortier started the nonprofit in 2011, after she discovered the large population of homeless youth in Loudoun County. Since then, Mobile Hope has provided a safe and non-judgmental space where youth find a sense of meaning in their community.
McLaurin was on site at the organization’s headquarters to discuss professional wardrobe and grooming and went on a shopping spree with Mobile Hope participants at its thrift store Graffiti Silk, at no cost.
“I just want to be able to provide a space where kids can come in and get their haircuts and proper clothing so they can be ready and feel confident about job interviews and opportunities,” McLaurin said.
Since launching the Terry McLaurin Foundation in 2022, McLaurin has been hands-on in helping local youth obtain the necessary tools to be great students and succeed in society.
“Honestly, it’s very inspirational having Terry McLaurin here showing awareness, showing that there’s hope in life,” said Mobile Hope participant Josue Arias. “He catches footballs on Sundays, and off the field when you speak to him, you’re like ‘Wow, he’s a good, heartful person.'”
Feature image by Micahi Oppong
