The Los Angeles Department of Recreation and Parks is making significant strides in supporting youth and teens throughout the city, thanks to its Our Spot program.
This initiative offers free after-school assistance, catering to students aged 12 to 18, and operates year-round, ensuring ongoing support even beyond the summer months.
With center locations spread across multiple parks in Los Angeles, this resource is open Monday through Friday from 3 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Parks involved include East Rancho Dominguez Park in Compton, Earvin “Magic” Johnson Park in Los Angeles, and Franklin D. Roosevelt Park in Los Angeles, demonstrating a broad commitment to accessibility.
Anthony Zamora, the Permanent Recreational Service Leader at Roosevelt Park, highlighted the diverse range of activities available through Our Spot.
“We have different workshops, different resources that’s available to them. We also offer homework help, field trips, and provide different experiences that they probably wouldn’t have elsewhere,” Zamora explained.
A unique aspect of the program is its availability of computers at Roosevelt Park, giving students who may lack access at home a vital resource for both homework assistance and leisure activities.
“We have a computer lab that’s open for them. Many teens come in every day, either to game or to use it for homework help or whatever they need,” Zamora noted.
The Our Spot program also features a variety of engaging workshops at different park locations.
These include podcasting workshops, mindfulness exercises, meditation, and even Hip-Hop Dance classes, enriching the student experience.
Moreover, Roosevelt Park organizes a series of field trips that allow youth to explore their city and beyond.
Past excursions have included visits to Raging Waters, the Hollywood Bowl, Six Flags, the Los Angeles Zoo, and Universal Studios, providing memorable experiences.
Zamora emphasized that the program also fosters confidence in young women through initiatives like the Girls Empowerment Conference.
To combat the rising summer heat, Roosevelt Park offers pool movie nights, contributing to a fun and inviting atmosphere.
For instance, a memorable event featured youth enjoying a swimming experience while watching “Captain America” under the stars.
Zamora shared the joy of the participants, noting that they are enthusiastic about the opportunities the program provides, stating, “They’re actually pretty excited.”
In addition to educational support, the staff serves as a reliable support system for many youths who may face challenges at home.
In creating a warm and nurturing environment, staff members develop lasting relationships with students, many of whom regularly attend the program.
To further support community needs, the Our Spot program established a supper initiative to ensure that no child goes to bed hungry.
Zamora noted, “We have had a lot of regulars that come in every day, week after week for a couple of years. So our staff, we build relationships with them as well.”
The program seeks to guide youth towards a brighter future, helping them avoid trouble, form lasting friendships, and gain valuable life skills through the Youth At Work program.
Zamora elaborated on this, stating, “We encourage them to apply with the county and through the Youth At Work program,” demonstrating a commitment to future employment opportunities.
Participation in the Our Spot program is free, and while signing up is encouraged, it is not mandatory for general attendance.
However, those interested in field trips or applying for the Youth At Work program must complete the registration process, available through reservations.lacounty.gov.
With the Our Spot program, the Los Angeles Department of Recreation and Parks continues its mission to empower the next generation to thrive academically and personally in their communities.
image source from：lasentinel
