Miss America, Sports Stars Help Local Students Raise Self-Esteem

Whatever it takes to get a kid’s attention.

Grammy nominated singer-songwriter Raheem DeVaughn, NFL Cornerback Leigh Bodden, world class sprinter Michael Walton, ESPN broadcaster Jorge Andres, and Miss America 2012 Laura Kaeppeler joined forces at Friendship Collegiate Academy in NE DC Tuesday to inspire youth as part of the Michael Walton Foundation‘s 10th annual ‘Speak Out to Reach Out‘ event.

Laura Kaeppeler

The Foundation, which helps youth to set goals, improve academic performance, and achieve success through overcoming obstacles invited the special guests to speak to students about the dangers of dropping out, importance of raising test scores and boosting self-esteem.

Mayor Gray and Michael Walton

Speaking on this year’s theme, “It’s About More Than Just Me!,” each celebrity or community leader, including Mayor Vincent Gray and Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton, shared a personal story of his or her journey to success, then took time to respond to the children’s variety of questions.

*Photos provided courtesy FMF Digital Creations/Clarence Franklin