Founded in 1968 and incorporated as a non-profit 501 (c)(3) in 1974 for the purpose of serving immigrant Latino youth, LAYC has grown from a small grassroots recreation center to a nationally recognized organization serving all low-income youth and families across the District of Columbia and in Maryland's Prince George's and Montgomery Counties.

LAYC achieves its mission by operating a regional network of youth centers and public charter schools with a shared commitment to meet young people where they are and help them make a successful transition to young adulthood.  LAYC provides multi-lingual, culturally sensitive programs in five areas; Educational Enhancement, Workforce Investment, Social Services, Art + Media, and Advocacy.