Boys Town Washington

Robert LaBron, Boys Town vice mayor, stands outside the United States Capitol Building during the J.C. and Frankie Watts Foundation Full Impact Leadership Academy.

J.C. Watts Helps Teach Youth Leadership

Two Boys Town youth - Robert LaBron from Home Campus and LaQuan Robinson from New York - were among 40 youth nationwide who participated in the J.C. and Frankie Watts Foundation Full Impact Leadership Academy in Washington, D.C., June 25-28.

LaBron, who plays football and basketball for Boys Town High School, and Robinson, an accomplished basketball player, were selected for their strong character and leadership qualities they exhibit through athletics.

"It was great to be selected to go to a program with kids from all over the country," said Robinson, who was one of two to receive the academy's Outstanding Leadership Award. "It was terrific. I learned a lot."

"I learned about all the parts needed for a successful future," said LaBron, Boys Town vice mayor. "It was a real eye-opener."

The four-day conference for male high school athletes reinforced important life skills LaBron and Robinson learn at Boys Town. Interactive presentations focused on professional skills such as negotiation, financial management, media training and conflict resolution.

"Everything we learned will help us be more professional," said LaBron. "The diverse group from different cities and states helped us learn a lot."

A community service project at Boys Town Washington, D.C., allowed the youth to practice the skills taught. The group helped beautify the residential homes, planting floral gardens, trees and shrubs.

"These young men really showed a strong spirit and commitment to service," said Cynthia Davis, Boys Town Washington, D.C., Development Director.

In addition to the presentations, LaBron and Robinson gained valuable insight from J.C. Watts, former United States Congressman from Oklahoma and Oklahoma Sooners quarterback. Watts told the group how role models he had helped him realize success and become a Congressman.

"He is really down to earth and wanted to get to know us," said Robinson. "He gave praise to all the kids and said he looked forward to seeing us again."

Not only did the high schools students hear from Watts, but from Sen. Hillary Clinton as well. During a tour of the United States Capitol Building, the leadership academy passed Sen. Hillary Clinton and Sen. John Kerry. LaBron said the Democratic presidential candidate said hello and spoke briefly to the group.

Thanks to the commitment of people like J.C. Watts, Boys Town youth are learning about a world of opportunities where they will realize success.

"I learned there are no excuses in life and we can overcome anything," said Robinson.