Summer is right around the corner, and if you are looking for a meaningful, engaging, and completely free way for your high schooler to spend their break, we have some incredible news for you. Beginning Jul 28, 2026 through Aug 20, 2026 we are hosting a summer arts program for youth ages 14 to 18.
Thanks to the support of our community and the City of Long Beach Office of Youth Development’s Youth Power Participatory Budgeting process, the Arts Council for Long Beach has officially been selected to host a brand-new summer program: Healing Through Color! Because local youth voted to fund this project, we can bring this unique opportunity to life at no cost.
What is “Healing Through Color”?
“Healing Through Color” is an immersive, 4-week summer experience designed specifically for youth ages 14 to 18. Running twice a week on Tuesdays and Thursdays at MacArthur Park from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM, this program blends the power of visual and performing arts with mental wellness and community connection.
We know the school year can be stressful, and teenage life comes with plenty of pressures. This program acts as a vibrant “third space”, a welcoming, relaxed environment where teens can unwind, express themselves, and make real friends along the way.
What Will Teens Do?
Every week features a brand-new creative medium to explore. No prior art experience is necessary! Your teen will get to dive into hands-on activities led by talented instructors and supported by mental health professionals, including:
- Fashion & Sneaker Design: Designing custom clothes and painting shoes.
- Music & Movement: Participating in drum circles, music writing, yoga, and dance.
- Nature Adventures: Taking a fun outdoor hike or field trip to destress in nature.
- Creative Expression: Journaling, scrapbooking, painting, and more.
The Perks: Stipends and Free Food!
We want to recognize our youth for their time, dedication, and effort. Teens who consistently attend and complete the 4-week program will earn a stipend of up to $300!
On top of getting paid to have fun, free, delicious meals will be provided at every single session from community-favorite restaurants like Raising Cane’s and In-N-Out.
Program Locations & Logistics
To make sure this program is accessible, sessions will take place weekly at two fantastic community hubs in Long Beach:
- MacArthur Park
- Jul 28, 2026 through Aug 20, 2026
- Tuesdays and Thursdays from 2 PM to 4 PM
Mark Your Calendars & Register Today!
Class sizes are kept small (30 students per cohort) to ensure a close-knit, supportive group environment, so register early, spots will fill up quickly!
Give your teen a summer of self-discovery, healing, new friendships, and creative fun.
👉Click Here to Register Your Teen for Healing Through Color at the following link: https://docs.google.com/forms/
Have questions? Reach out to us at artslearning@artslb.org or 562-204-6602. Let’s make this summer a colorful one!