New Earth

Program Overview

New Earth provides mentor-based arts, educational, vocational programs and wrap-around services that empower at-promise youth ages 13-25 and their families. We support youth to reimagine their lives, move towards positive life choices, and discover their genius as future leaders of tomorrow. We are causing a cultural shift.

Cost Info

Student and Volunteer Success Stories

BRYAN FIGUEROA, New Earth Alumni 2017
Employed full-time by New Earth as the Campus Specialist

"I was always easily distracted. So, some teachers thought I was dumb and stubborn, but really – I just didn't feel understood. I was told I wouldn't graduate, and I was routinely discouraged because I simply didn't learn like everyone else, I was told I was likely to drop out.

Then I found New Earth.

My sister, who was in juvenile hall at the time, told me there was this place that can't be explained, only experienced. My little sister opened that door for me, the door that changed my life. New Earth welcomed me and helped me overcome a dark side of myself that told me I wasn't worth it. Day by day the staff showed me through words, actions, and trust that I was more than worth it.

I received my High School Diploma through New Earth's services and now I'm proud to say I work at New Earth helping young people just like me."

LILIAN VELASQUEZ, New Earth Alumni 2018
Employed Full-Time by New Earth as our Care Coordinator.

"Before I found New Earth, I was struggling. I would run away from home, be in the streets with drugs, hang with gangs; I knew I needed a healthy place, but had no idea how to get there.

I was traumatized in school, so I dropped out. My patterns of abuse continued, and I thought that was just going to be my life. Then something miraculous happened, I got pregnant. And I knew I had to do better for my child.

Then I found New Earth.

My first day in 2015, Yana, the Co-Founder of New Earth, approached me, barely knowing me, and said “You can do so much more than you can even imagine. You can achieve anything." No one had ever looked at me that way, had ever spoken to me that way. New Earth taught me what respect and inspiration looks like. What words and positive actions look like. What home looks like.

I graduated with my high school diploma through New Earth. I stayed at New Earth because I felt safe and seen. Now, I have the privilege of working at New Earth and creating a safe space for others.

I am grateful for everything that has happened because it led me here, to this beautiful moment in my life."