Teen Innovation Hub for Underserved Youth

Access to tech and creative industry employment

San Fernando Valley

Expand existing project, program, or initiative (expanding and continuing ongoing, successful work)

North Valley Caring Services (NVCS) seeks to address the lack of access to technology, mentorship, and safe creative spaces for underserved youth in North Hills, an area challenged by gang influence, low high school completion rates, and limited pathways to higher education or stable employment. Many families face barriers such as poverty, language access, or undocumented status, leaving youth disconnected from opportunity. NVCS aims to provide hands-on training in tech, creative arts, and career-building skills while fostering a safe, inclusive space where teens can grow alongside peers and mentors. This issue must be addressed now to disrupt cycles of poverty and violence, and to empower youth with tools, confidence, and support to build a better future.

This grant will support North Valley Caring Services (NVCS) in continuing and expanding our Teen Tech Center and Youth Collective programs to reach more underserved youth ages 6–18. Funds will enhance hands-on opportunities by purchasing new equipment, updating existing technology, and hiring diverse mentors to lead engaging workshops. Our programs provide youth with access to creative outlets such as music production, graphic design, 3D printing, tutoring, and hands-on STEAM projects. These activities build technical skills, foster creativity, and promote academic success. Youth also receive daily warm meals in a safe, supportive environment. Through mentorship and skill-building, participants gain confidence and tools to overcome challenges and thrive in school, work, and life. This grant will expand STEAM programming and increase access to technology, empowering youth to reach their full potential.

If our work is successful, Los Angeles County will see more underserved youth. Particularly in the North Hills and San Fernando Valley, connected to safe, inspiring spaces that foster creativity, mentorship, and pathways to careers in STEAM fields. During the grant period (Oct 2025–Oct 2026), NVCS aims to engage 180+ youth through weekly hands-on workshops led by trained mentors, mental health support, and extended center hours during school breaks to keep youth off the streets and in a positive, enriching environment. Youth will build confidence, social-emotional wellness, and professional habits through individual and group tech projects, mentorship, and academic support. Long-term, we plan to scale by expanding outreach, building more partnerships, and replicating our model across other high-need communities. Our vision is a future where more teens thrive emotionally, academically, and creatively, where tech access becomes a bridge to opportunity and transformation countywide.