CREATEReality Check: Youth Guide to Spotting B.S. Online
A misinformation-busting challenge where underserved LA teens learn how to spot falsehoods online, then create memes, short videos, and articles that debunk viral myths using media kits, storytelling templates, and self-guided lessons. The boldest myth-busters are celebrated at a final public showcase.
What is the primary issue area that your application will impact?
Access to tech and creative industry employment
In which areas of Los Angeles will you be directly working?
South LA Central LA East LA San Fernando Valley City of Los Angeles (select only if your project has a citywide benefit)
In what stage of innovation is this project, program, or initiative?
Research (initial work to identify and understand the problem)
What is your understanding of the issue that you are seeking to address?
Underserved high school students in LA are flooded with misinformation but lack the media literacy and tools to identify and challenge it. Many don’t have the tech access to participate in digital storytelling or journalism programs. As a result, their perspectives are drowned out by louder, less credible voices — worsening inequality and civic disengagement.
Describe the project, program, or initiative this grant will support to address the issue.
Reality Check is a self-guided media-literacy challenge. Students attend one in-person kickoff training where they:
Learn how to detect fake news, conspiracy theories, and manipulated media
Receive a "Myth-Busting Creator Kit" (mic, tripod, ring light, guidebook)
Choose a content format: meme, short video, or article
Each student uses our template-based storytelling guides to create a piece of content that debunks a popular myth. For students without tech access, we offer:
Chromebook and phone loaners
Offline worksheet versions (handwritten/storyboard format)
Students receive virtual support via email/text during the 6–8 week production phase. The project ends with the "Truth Awards" — a screening and gallery event honoring top creators.
Describe how Los Angeles County will be different if your work is successful.
A successful Reality Check program will create a ripple effect of digital literacy and civic awareness among young people in LA County. Students will not only develop the skills to analyze and debunk misinformation, but they’ll also become influential peer educators — spreading accurate information in online spaces where falsehoods often dominate. Communities will benefit from youth who are informed, media-savvy, and equipped to contribute meaningfully to public discourse. In the long term, Reality Check helps build a more resilient, inclusive, and truth-driven media culture in Los Angeles.
Approximately how many people will be impacted by this project, program, or initiative?
Direct Impact: 60
Indirect Impact: 1,000