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Carlos Hood, 28, was born and raised in Northeast D.C., where he first connected with Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Washington (BGCGW) as a sixth grader at Jelleff Club in 2009. The Club quickly became a second home to him, providing mentorship and a sense of community that would shape his future. His time at Jelleff not only helped him navigate his youth but also inspired a deep commitment to giving back to the community that raised him.
After graduating high school, Carlos attended Morehouse College, where he studied music and mathematics. But his connection to D.C. remained strong, and after finishing his studies, he returned home to continue his education and start his career. It was not long before he reconnected with Jelleff Club, first returning as a volunteer. When the Club needed someone to step in for a program, Carlos was onboarded in October 2016. His first official role at BGCGW was as a Program Leader, a position that offered him more authority and responsibility compared to his previous summer youth employee role.
Having already gained experience working with kids through summer programs, Carlos found a new level of respect and recognition in his full-time position. He embraced the opportunity to create a sense of community within the Club, making a lasting impact on the kids he worked with over the next three and a half to four years. His leadership extended beyond just after-school programming; he was instrumental in ensuring that students successfully made the transition from middle school to high school.
Carlos worked under the leadership of Jelleff Club’s longtime Club Directors, Bob Stowers and Shawn Osborn. He fondly recalls how Mr. Bob, as the kids affectionately called him, waived his registration fee when Carlos was a kid, ensuring he could participate in Club activities. “Mr. Bob helped me when I needed it most,” Carlos says. “Now that I’m in a position to help others, I always try to give back however I can, just like they did for me.”
In 2016, Carlos transitioned into a new role as a STEM Technologist. He quickly immersed himself in learning the basics of STEM curriculum, emphasizing that STEM education is all about exposure. “Even if kids don’t fully understand a concept, it’s important to expose them to it,” he says. Carlos uses the term “STEMergy” to describe his approach—helping kids find their unique STEM identity by introducing them to various fields, from biology to artificial intelligence to agricultural science. He is passionate about ensuring that every child feels they belong in STEM, believing that anyone can succeed if given the right tools and guidance.
Over time, Carlos took on additional responsibilities, particularly around technology and grants. As part of his growth within BGCGW, he wanted to understand the broader operations of the organization, including how grants were managed and how to secure funding. His supervisor gave him more responsibility in this area, allowing him to have a direct impact on ensuring that technology was up-to-date and well-maintained for both students and staff. Now, after three years in the STEM department, Carlos ensures that technology is accessible and effective in the programs offered, working toward equity across the organization.
Carlos’s journey has transformed him from a Club member to a valued leader. He is no longer seen as the kid from the Club but as a colleague and a mentor. “The staff now sees me as a peer, not just a former kid. We’re a big family here,” he reflects. The sense of shared purpose and mission is something he holds dear, knowing that BGCGW’s work continues to shape the lives of young people just like it shaped his own.
For Carlos, it is not just about teaching kids to code or work with tech—it is about giving them the space to explore and find their place in the world of STEM. “The goal is to create a high-impact, high-yield learning environment where STEM is fun, innovative, and accessible to everyone,” he says. His journey is a testament to the power of mentorship, community, and the transformative role that exposure to STEM can play in shaping young lives.
Our five-year “ALL IN” campaign concludes May 1st. We are asking for your support — just $100 — to help us finish strong. $100 can provide things like Club memberships for two kids, four memberships for four teens, or STEM or sports equipment.
Your contribution will directly impact the lives of young people in Washington, D.C., providing them with the stability, resources, and opportunities they need to rise above the challenges they face so they can become the leaders of tomorrow.
Support Carlos’ innovative approach to STEM Education and the kids who benefit from it.
Let’s make a real and lasting impact! Won’t you join us?
