Our Partners in Impact: Los Angeles County Department of Youth Development

As we inch closer to the end of another amazing program year, Rainbow Labs is appreciative of the opportunities we’ve had to provide in-school programming at several campuses throughout the city, many of which lack access to queer spaces.

This past year, we’ve had the honor of expanding our programming in East Los Angeles at Belvedere Middle School, where the kids have had the joy of participating in a variety of STEM- and arts-related projects, and bridging their learning through educational field trips to locations such as the California Science Center.

Additionally, our Belvedere students are now part of a feeder pattern that will allow them to continue programming with us through our partnership with Esteban Torres High School, where students have been engaging with Rainbow Labs for several years, including one unique youth who had this to say:

“When I first heard about Rainbow Labs, I was kind of confused that there was a club for someone like me. And then I joined, and it was really fun. Everything turned out great and amazing. The field trips were good, the events were fun, and I got to meet new people.” - Student, Torres High School

None of this would be possible without the support of the LA County Department of Youth Development, which is why we would like to extend a shout-out to them. 

Thanks to the department, Rainbow Labs has not only expanded programming but also built a sustainable feeder pattern that ensures Rainbow Labs youth have access to our network throughout their secondary education and can maintain peer connections to support them in their personal and academic journeys, which can make all the difference in a youth’s educational experience.

Our educators have also seen the impact of Rainbow Labs in real time, including this individual from Torres High School:

"It's important to support queer youth always, but especially now. It's great seeing how excited they are to come to Rainbow Labs, and I'm happy to support them in any way I can."  - Educator, Torres High School

Thank you, Los Angeles County Youth Development Department, you are true partners in action.