The Northeast Performing Arts Group (NEPAG) is an award-winning, culturally-based arts and education program whose mission is “To develop and foster the creative talents of youth in the Northeast/Southeast corridors of Washington, D.C. through performing and visual arts, as an alternative to street life and to teach the invaluable lessons of discipline, commitment and team motivation”. NEPAG has trained over 7,000 youth and helped more than 400 enroll in college. In 1979, the late Rita Jackson founded the NEPAG, envisioning a place to advance the development of District youth through the performing arts and offer constructive alternatives to the negative influences of their communities. Targeting Ward 7 youth living in River Terrace, Kenilworth, Marshall Heights, Benning Terrace and Lincoln Heights/Richardson Dwellings communities, the studio initially offered dance, drama and vocal classes. Recognizing the need for holistic approaches to combat escalating dropout rates, violence and drug use and other self-destructive behavior, NEPAG expanded programming to include academic support services and life skills training and planning. It established the N.E. Outreach Youth Center, and, today, 41 years later, the center and art studio have evolved into a safe haven where young people, ages 3 - 18, can prepare for life while exploring the arts after school, weekends and during the 9-week Summer Performing Arts Camp. The NEPAG is currently under the executive direction of Carrington Lassiter.