The Post created the Young Journalists Development Project in 1997 to educate and cultivate talented young people who are interested in a career in newspaper journalism. It also addresses The Washington Post's commitment to increase job opportunities for minorities who are often under-represented in newsrooms across the country.

Led by former Post columnist Dorothy Gilliam, the centerpiece of the program is The Post's award-winning and nationally respected reporters, editors and photographers who participate in the program. These news veterans, some with decades of experience, provide guidance and insight into the fast-changing world of journalism to the young people involved in the program.

Highlights of the program include equipment donations, printing services, technical assistance, seminars and workshops, and scholarships. Financial commitments made by The Post are complemented by grants or in-kind support from the American Society of Newspapers Editors, the Freedom Forum, the Newspaper Association of America Foundation, the Washington Association of Black Journalists, Howard University and the University of Maryland.