Predominantly African American students with one biracial child on the red carpet at a film premiere
Light the Way Foundation Logo
Light the Way Foundation
Opening Doors to a Brighter Future

Opening Doors to a Brighter Future Through Enrichment Programs

Empowering youth to find their voice, build confidence, master new skills, and shine their light with pride.

Light The Way Foundation 10th Anniversary Red Carpet Gala — August 16, 2026 invitation flyer
10th Anniversary

Red Carpet Gala & Film Premiere

Join us as we celebrate a decade of opening doors to brighter futures and enjoy the premiere of Destination Union Station, an original film created by our Youth Film Camp students. Featuring Annie Yu (WUSA9) as Mistress of Ceremonies.

Sun, Aug 16, 2026 · 3:00–5:00 PM
AFI Silver Theatre, Silver Spring, MD
Red Carpet at 2:30 PM
Reserve Your Complimentary Tickets
Our Approach

Why Film? Why Now?

Filmmaking is more than art — it's a powerful tool for building the skills young people need to thrive.

Critical Thinking

Students learn to research, analyze, and form compelling narratives — skills that extend far beyond the camera.

Teamwork

Every film is a team effort. Students collaborate as writers, directors, camera operators, and editors.

Communication

From interviewing real subjects to presenting their work, students find their voice and learn to use it.

Confidence

Walking the red carpet and seeing their film on the big screen shows every child what they're capable of.

Since 2008

Our Impact in Motion

Every year, students write, film, and premiere a documentary that changes their lives.

Community in Color
2025

"Community in Color"

Honorable Mention at the California International Children's Film Festival.

Honorable Mention
Don't Burst My Bubble
2024

"Don't Burst My Bubble"

Featured in multiple festivals including the LA International Children's Film Festival.

Multi-Festival Selection
Impact of Music
2023

"Impact of Music"

Red carpet premiere with keynote by Rodney 'Red' Grant.

Red Carpet Premiere
Dream Catcher
2022

"Dream Catcher"

Students received the Charles County Commissioners' Citation for their work.

Commissioners' Citation
Social Media Be Like
2021

"Social Media Be Like"

Scholarships provided with strong sponsor support enabling all students to attend.

Full Scholarships
The Impact; Traumatizing Kids
2019

"The Impact; Traumatizing Kids"

A powerful documentary addressing violence in media and its effects on youth.

Documentary Feature