For the last 40 years, Eugene Hughes, has committed his time and energy to helping local youth stay off the streets and out of trouble. In 1968, the he former social worker and “DC boxing Hall of Fame” member, founded Mid-Town Youth Academy (MYA) and for years has volunteered his time and money to reaching out to youth about God, books, and boxing, and life.

Following the 1968 Washington riots much of the neighborhood surrounding 14th and U Streets NW was ruined by fire and looting. To offer a safe haven and place where kids could go after school or find community, Mr. Hughes founded MYA. Today, MYA operates an after-school and summer enrichment programs for kids from ages 6 to 18, as well as a boxing gym for both youth and adults. Kids and young adults, who visit MYA are offered a space to work on homework, box in the gym and learn other life skills from Mr. Hughes. Besides helping countless numbers of youth have a safe environment to study, MYA has produced World Champion boxers such as Lisa “Too Fierce” Foster and Toni Keese.

St. Thomas’ involvement with MYA began in 1982. Throughout the years members of St. Thomas’ parish have given their personal time to volunteer at MYA through tutoring and or donated/purchased items such as a sewing machine and computer for the organization. The outreach committee also provides support to Mid-Town Youth through monthly donations to their general operating budget to pay bills, sponsor meals for the kids, and even buy clothing.

MYA has become an established safe haven in the community for local youth and their families, providing assistance well beyond boxing to those in need. Time and time again Mid-Town Youth has been recognized by numerous organizations and the Mayor’s office for its contribution to the community.

So how I can I get involved?

If you want to learn more about Mid-Town Youth, how to get involved or how to donate (clothing donations are always welcome, particularly of clothes for young teenagers) please contact either the outreach committee ( outreach@stthomasdc.org This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it ) or give Mid-Town Youth a call.

Midtown Youth Academy
Mr. Eugene R. Hughes
Director
2206 14th Street, N.W.
Washington, D.C. 20009
MYA tel. (202) 265 – 6179 or cell: (202) 271-2319