Barack Obama Visits THEARC

It was a busy day in the neighborhood today! Youth involved with our Summer Enrichment, Pre-Apprenticeship, and Artisans programs had an opportunity to meet Presidential Candidate Barack Obama. The Senator from Illinois visited THEARC this morning, a follow-up to Mayor Fenty’s endorsement of the presidential hopeful as announced yesterday.
Prior to making his speech, the Senator met with 30 CHW youth and staff members—shaking every hand and greeting each person by name. He also inquired of the youth’s summer activities and offered encouraging remarks. On behalf of CHW, the Senator received an Artisan box with the inscription, "Good luck on your journey from Covenant House to the White House". The Senator referenced Covenant House a few times during his speech which outlined his initiatives for the working class, the poor, and education.
You can learn more by visiting his website: barackobama.com.

A round of applause to all youth participating in the meet and greet session with the Senator. They were all very enthusiastic, patient, and well behaved as we waited for the Senator to arrive. He was delayed due to a Senate Vote.

Youth had front row seating during his speech, and one young man received happy birthday wishes from Senator Obama, from the podium, at the conclusion of his speech.


- Jocelyn Harris, Director of Communications


Pictured from top to bottom: Senator Obama and Judith Dobbins, Executive Director; Senator Obama addressing CHW youth; Senator Obama with Prevention Services Youth; Artisan Dominic Jones presents Senator Obama with a engraved Dream Box; detail of the engraved box.