Washington, D.C. teens are making the most of their summer break this year — not just relaxing, but rolling up their sleeves to build real-world skills and leadership experience.

A group of D.C. teens is turning summer vacation into hands-on firefighter training, according to NBC4 Washington. Rather than spending the break on the sidelines, these young residents are learning the fundamentals of firefighting, gaining a firsthand look at one of the community’s most essential and demanding professions.

At the same time, the D.C. National Guard is investing in the next generation of leaders through JROTC Camp Glory. The program, highlighted by DVIDS, brings together young participants for a structured camp experience designed to build discipline, teamwork, and leadership — qualities that will serve them well long after the summer ends.

Together, these two initiatives reflect a vibrant spirit of youth engagement across the District. Whether suiting up to learn fire safety or stepping onto the parade ground at Camp Glory, D.C.’s young people are spending their summer growing into tomorrow’s community leaders — and the city is all the better for it.

Sources: NBC4 Washington, DVIDS