The Sarah Wise Wooten Young Ladies Academy (SWWYLA) was established as one of the projects for the youth in the Suitland community that would serve as a deterrent to the violence and negative, anti-social behaviors that was occurring. The project began in October of 2005 and has since expanded throughout Prince George’s County, currently serving over 40 young ladies in grades 6-8 each year. SWWYLA’s mission is to cultivate young ladies in Prince George’s County by involving them in substantive activities that encourage positive self-imaging, develop leadership skills and promote positive community involvement; thus producing high achieving, socially productive and responsible future leaders. Young ladies in the academy receive direct mentorship from successful women in the community through hands-on mentoring, personal development, educational workshops, educational field experiences, and community service that encourage healthy living and productive lifestyles. SWWYLA meets on the first Saturday of each month September through June at the Ivy Youth and Family Center from 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.