Youth Organizations/Programs and College Programs Not Affiliated with DeMatha
Disclaimer: All of the following youth organizations and programs are Not Affiliated with DeMatha Catholic High School. It is the parents’ and students’ responsibility to perform their due diligence when looking into any of the following programs.
The purpose of this page is to inform parents and students of programs in the DC and Maryland Area that they may want to explore.
More organizations will continually be added to this site as the site moderator comes across them. If you are aware of any good programs please email Mr. Sicko at ssicko@dematha.org.
College Programs
College Programs
University Of Maryland
The High School Hub compiles GEOG’s programs that are designed to ignite students' passion for geographical sciences and cultivate a deeper understanding of geographers’ role in mitigating climate change, tracking deforestation and biodiversity loss, addressing food security, combating natural disasters and other important issues for Earth and humanity.
Through a series of engaging and interactive activities, our programs offer high school students and beyond the opportunity to explore the multifaceted aspects of geographical sciences.
Telluride Association Summer Seminars (TASS) are free, five-week residential summer programs for high school sophomores and juniors (“rising juniors” and “rising seniors”) that investigate how power and privilege shape social structures through courses in humanities and social sciences. We are seeking intellectually curious, community-minded, and self-motivated students with diverse perspectives who are looking for opportunities to grow academically and socially.
TASS students live in a residence on or near a university campus (in 2026, the programs will be held at Cornell University and University of Maryland College Park) and participate in a seminar led by two professors. Our professors ask students to read carefully, to consider challenging ideas from many perspectives, and to express their ideas in class and in other creative and critical forms of expression. Instead of grades, students receive extensive feedback from their professors and other mentors.
Applications are open October 15-December 3, 2025
High School Discernment Opportunities
Still in high school, but sensing God’s call?
Our high school programs and retreats offer juniors and seniors a chance to visit Old College, Holy Cross’ undergraduate seminary at the University of Notre Dame.
International Club of DC
“We are Washington’s premier organization for internationally-minded professionals who enjoy international cultural experiences. In partnership with over 80 embassies, along with museums and other cultural organizations in Washington DC, we present a variety of private cultural and networking events for our membership in the DC area. Our events are presented with the goal of helping members share cultural experiences and meet like-minded individuals. We warmly invite you to join us as we venture out to discover your city and your world!”
DC Youth Orchestra
“DCYOP offers comprehensive group lessons and ensemble training on all orchestral instruments for students ages 4 ½ to 18. More than 600 students participate in group classes, ensemble rehearsals, and performances each semester through our main-site programming at Takoma Education Campus as well as through our school partnerships. We are the only preK-12 program in the DC area that seeks to make high quality ensemble music education available to all students, regardless of background, socioeconomic status, or ability.”
Non-DeMatha Clubs
Catholic Youth Organization of DC
“The Archdiocesan Youth Leadership Team (AYLT) is made up of gifted young people chosen from around The Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Washington. These youth have been recognized by their parishes and the Archdiocese as evangelizers of our faith and active witnesses to the love of Jesus Christ! AYLT represents the youth of our Archdiocese on a diocesan and national level, plays key roles in the Youth Mass of Celebration & Thanksgiving, and assists in planning youth activities across the ADW, including the LITE Retreat.”
Sierra Club Youth Groups
“The Youth Group of the DC Chapter of the Sierra Club brings together a passionate and empowered generation of environmental advocates in the District. The group engages in impactful activities that address pressing local environmental issues. By providing a platform for teens aged 14 to 18 to participate in advocacy work, community projects, and educational initiatives. Through hands-on experiences, mentorship, and leadership opportunities, members develop their skills, knowledge, and sense of responsibility towards our planet. Additionally, the group strives to foster a diverse, inclusive, and welcoming space that encourages the active participation of teens from all backgrounds, empowering them to become change-makers in their communities.”