Afterschool Arts Programs
Healing-centered multidisciplinary classes in filmmaking, theatre, music, and visual art for youth ages 10-18 throughout Los Angeles County.
Launched in 2020 as pop-up park workshops, our Afterschool Arts programs now partners with the LA County Department of Arts and Culture, Parks & Recreation, and OurSPOT to deliver free, multidisciplinary training at community sites county-wide. Over twelve weekly sessions, students learn about camera, lighting, sound, acting, songwriting, and media as well as narrative structure non-violent communication, and mindfulness. Each class ends with the Justice for My Youth Film Festival and Arts Showcase. Students present their work on stage, gaining real experience in production and public speaking. We also offer clay, mural making, music, and theater classes.
To date, the program has served more than 1,400 young people, with post-program surveys showing marked gains in media literacy, confidence, and peer collaboration.
Recap of our Summer 2021 filmmaking class with Roosevelt Park:
Justice for My Sister (JFMS), in partnership with the Los Angeles County Department of Parks and Recreation, offered a Video Diaries class to young filmmakers of color in South LA at Roosevelt Park in the Summer of 2021!
Check-out the recap of our program!
The Justice for My Youth Film Festival (Summer 2024)
The Justice for My Youth Film Festival in Summer 2024 marked the culmination of our Afterschool Arts Program. Students premiered their short films to an audience of family members, friends, and industry guests, then took the microphone for Q&A sessions that walked everyone through their creative choices and production challenges. The event showcased the rapid growth of these young filmmakers and demonstrated how fresh perspectives can reshape the stories we see on screen.
Take a look at the photo gallery to relive red-carpet arrivals and behind-the-scenes snapshots. Stay tuned for announcements about the next Justice for My Youth Film Festival and find out how you can attend, volunteer, or become an event sponsor.
Are you a student interested in joining a program?
Visit our applications page to learn more about our programs, find the best program for you you, check program availability, and apply today.