Youth Program

Our intergenerational organizing approach is rooted in the belief that those directly affected by inequity are best positioned to lead lasting transformative change. At the heart of our youth program is recognizing that young people, given the opportunity and essential support, are ready to assume leadership roles.

The Dolores Huerta Foundation Youth Program comprises Liberated Youth for Empowerment (LYFE). This initiative aims to empower young individuals by providing tools and resources, fostering a critical understanding of history and systems of inequity. LYFE, with pathways in Civic Engagement, Transformational Art, and New Media and Technology, serves as an immersive leadership program, emphasizing the intersection of community engagement and health/wellness while amplifying the voices of future leaders. Upon graduating from LYFE, youth leaders transition as members of our alumni program, offering monthly programming, mentorship, scholarships, and entrepreneurship opportunities to support alumni in their journeys toward social justice and professional development.

In 2023, we held our first ever Camp LYFE at the National Chavez Center in Keene, California, where nearly 40 LYFE members experienced a unique and immersive arts camp that included programming grounded in the following disciplines—Dance, Theater, Spoken Word, Music, Visual Arts, and Creative Media. This camp was designed to support young people most impacted by “zero tolerance” policies in schools. Our camp participants are 80% Black, Indigenous, and People of Color, committed to expanding our knowledge of intersectional inclusivity.

To learn more about Camp LYFE, download this pamphlet

If you believe in the power of youth leadership and wish to support our work: Donate Here

To learn more about our programs and how you can be involved: Click Here