Theater as a Tool for Foster Youth Empowerment

Support for foster and systems-impacted youth

County of Los Angeles (select only if your project has a countywide benefit)

Pilot or new project, program, or initiative (testing or implementing a new idea)

Foster youth often experience significant instability, trauma, and isolation, which can hinder their emotional development, self-esteem, and ability to form trusting relationships through no fault of their own. Most adults in their lives are paid to be there, leading to a deep sense of detachment and mistrust. These youth frequently lack access to consistent, supportive environments where they feel seen, heard, and valued. Without opportunities to safely express themselves and build essential life skills—such as communication, empathy, and collaboration—they may struggle to succeed in school, navigate foster care, and transition into adulthood and the workplace.

The LA2050 grant will support an 8–10-week theater workshop series designed specifically for foster youth, led by highly trained professional teaching artists from The Actors’ Gang (TAG). Using the company’s signature ensemble-based theatrical “style,” which blends physical theater, emotional honesty, and collaborative storytelling, the workshops will provide a safe, creative space where participants can express themselves without fear of judgment. The program is built on the belief that every young person deserves to be heard, valued, and empowered. Through improvisation, character-building, and storytelling exercises, youth will learn to articulate their thoughts and emotions, build trust with peers, and develop critical life skills such as active listening, empathy, and teamwork. These workshops support artistic expression and foster emotional resilience and self-confidence. For foster youth, who often lack stable environments and consistent mentors, this series offers a rare opportunity for connection, healing, and personal growth, helping to fill a critical gap in their support system.

If our work is successful, Los Angeles County will be a more compassionate and inclusive place where foster youth feel seen, supported, and empowered. These young people will have greater access to creative outlets that build confidence, communication skills, and emotional resilience—qualities that are essential for success in school, relationships, and the workplace. As foster youth gain tools for self-expression and healing, their voices will enrich the cultural fabric of the region, and the broader community will benefit from a generation of individuals who are more connected, self-assured, and prepared to lead meaningful lives.