In a world where countless young people face the lingering effects of hardship, an organization stands out as a champion for its untapped potential. This glimmer of hope is Create Now, a Los Angeles-based nonprofit dedicated to empowering underserved youth aged 3-24 through the transformative power of arts education.

For nearly 30 years, Create Now has nurtured youth’s creativity and equipped them with the tools they need to thrive. As Create Now embarks on a new chapter marked by growth and expansion, one thing remains constant: its unwavering commitment to the well-being of young people. It extends a heartfelt invitation to partners, volunteers, and supporters who share its belief in harnessing the arts as a catalyst for empowerment, healing, and positive growth.

Understanding the Needs of Youth

Create Now recognizes the profound challenges faced by young people in underserved communities. Abuse, neglect, poverty, and many other hardships can cast long shadows, hindering their potential and dimming their dreams. Within this context, Create Now steps in, offering an outlet for artistic expression and a pathway to healing and a brighter future.

A Multifaceted Approach to Empowerment

The cornerstone of Create Now’s mission lies in its high-quality arts programs. Photography, culinary, fashion, digital media, film production, and animation come alive under the guidance of dedicated mentors. These programs are more than just skill-building exercises; they are journeys of self-discovery that nurture confidence, self-esteem, and a vision for a purposeful future.

Beyond Artistic Expression: Equipping for Success

Create Now understands that artistic talent alone may not ensure a secure future. That’s why it places significant emphasis on job preparation and career development. Through tailored workshops, participants gain invaluable skills in areas crucial for success in the creative industries. This holistic approach equips them with the tools to translate their passion into fulfilling careers.

Cultural Enrichment: Expanding Horizons

Empowerment goes beyond technical skills and artistic development. Create Now recognizes the importance of cultural enrichment. Their Cultural Journeys program facilitates excursions to premier venues, exposing youth to diverse artistic experiences that broaden their horizons and complement their overall artistic education.

Customized Solutions: Reaching Every Child

Create Now champions a unique and impactful approach, empowering over 50,000 underserved youth in Los Angeles. This impressive reach is achieved through collaboration with over 100 youth partner agencies. This allows for the creation of customized arts workshops tailored specifically to participants’ backgrounds, schedules, and individual needs. It ensures that every child receives the tools and support necessary to unlock their creative potential, fostering hope, resilience, and the determination to persevere.

A Leader in Empowering Youth

“Empowering underserved youth through the arts is not just about nurturing creativity; it’s about igniting potential, fostering resilience, and sculpting futures filled with hope and possibility,” says Brandon Dean Johson, CEO of Create Now. This powerful message carries the very essence of Create Now’s mission. They are more than just an arts education program; they are architects of hope, building a brighter future for young people, one brushstroke, one film frame, and one musical note at a time.

How You Can Be a Part of the Change

As Create Now starts this exciting new era of expansion, it relies on the unwavering support of individuals and organizations who share its vision. Volunteers play a vital role by providing mentorship and guidance, while partnerships with businesses, foundations, and other nonprofits amplify their reach and contribute to lasting social impact.

Supporting Create Now isn’t just about helping a worthy cause; it’s an investment in the future of these communities. By empowering young people to explore their creativity, develop valuable skills, and overcome obstacles, Create Now is building a more resilient, inclusive, and vibrant future for all.

Create a Brighter Future Together!

Create Now’s dedication to empowering underserved youth through the arts is a beacon of hope in Los Angeles. By joining forces as volunteers and supporters or simply spreading the word, you can be a part of their transformative journey. Visit their website to learn more about their programs, volunteer opportunities, and upcoming events. Everyone is encouraged to join hands and empower the next generation of creative minds. Here are some additional ways you can get involved:

Become a Volunteer: Share your skills and experience by mentoring young artists. Create Now offers a variety of volunteer opportunities, from assisting with workshops to providing administrative support.

Spread the Word: Talk to your friends, family, and colleagues about Create Now’s mission. Share their story on social media and encourage others to get involved.

Join the Movement: The 3rd Annual Creative Career Fair

Mark your calendars! The 3rd annual Creative Career Fair held at El Sereno Middle School and powered by Create Now returns this April 27th. This free event aims to connect LA youth with exciting creative opportunities they can pursue in the future. They are anticipating 150-300 youth, ages 12-24. 

To learn more about how you can support Create Now’s mission, visit createnow.org or follow them on social media for updates on upcoming events and opportunities. Together, individuals can create a brighter future for underserved youth, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to thrive.

Remember, every act of support, every kind word, and every helping hand contributes to a brighter future for these young individuals and communities as a whole. Everyone is encouraged to embrace the power of arts education and create a world where every child has the opportunity to thrive.

Published by: Holy Minoza