WGLA Youth Development Programs

Explore our transformative creative programs designed to ignite the imagination and potential of young individuals, empowering them to dream without limits and achieve beyond expectations!

Our Current Programs and Activities

Group of people standing in front of a stall named Monster Musubi at an outdoor event.

Real World Hands On Food Service Training

Our program equips participants with essential skills in a commercial kitchen setting, blending practical experience with culinary fundamentals for hands-on learning.

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Group of people standing indoors holding yellow bags with a logo, smiling at the camera.

Fashion Design via Handbag Designer Lab

Our interactive workshops offer aspiring designers the opportunity to learn and create unique handbag designs with expert guidance in a collaborative environment.

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Photo Booth

Photo Booth Project 2025

Capture lasting memories with our 2025 photo booth project. Perfect for events, it offers customizable backdrops and instant digital sharing to make each moment uniquely unforgettable. Totally opperated by our foster youth.

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Inspiring Hope Through Action

We Give LA and We Give NorCal Program: Empowering Foster Youth (Ages 18-25) 

Overview: 

We Give LA (WGLA) and We Give NorCal (WGNC) is committed to helping foster youth successfully transition into independent, self-sufficient adults by providing mentorship, vocational training, and paid internships. Our structured funnel ensures that youth find a clear path to discovering and pursuing their passions. 

1. Speaking Engagements: 

WGLA and WGNC collaborates with organizations supporting foster youth, such as Independent Living Programs (ILP) and nonprofits like Junior Achievement of Sacramento and Aspiranet.org. Through 90-minute presentations by founders Richard and Gina Alexander, youth are inspired by real-life stories of resilience, entrepreneurship, and overcoming adversity. 

2. One-Day Vocational Classes: 

Interested youth enroll in industry-focused classes that provide an overview of various career paths, including: 

●  Handbag Design (Fashion Industry) HDL Project 
●  Music Business / Music Creation 
●  Social Media & Content Creation 
●  AI & Technology 
●  Entrepreneurship (Fosterpreneur) Photo Booth Project 
●  Culinary Arts (Monster Musubi Project) 
●  Graphic Design & Printing 
●  Real Estate 

After completing the course, students receive a certificate and qualify for WGLA’s paid internship program. 

3. Paid Internship Program: 

Students who meet program requirements are matched with local businesses for a six-week paid internship, gaining hands-on experience in their chosen field. To participate, students must commit to: 
●  Completing the one-day class 
●  Attending a seven-week grief recovery & entrepreneurial development course 
●  Being mentored throughout the internship and course 

4. Grief Recovery & Entrepreneurial Development: “Trauma to Triumph” Overcoming Grief and Building Your Future Foster youth often face emotional and psychological challenges. WGLA requires all interns to complete a seven-week grief recovery and entrepreneurship mindset development course to support their personal and professional growth. 

5. Rewards & Next Steps: 

Graduates of the paid internship and grief recovery program become eligible for one of three WGLA awards: 
●  Scholarships (Trade school/college funding) 
●  Apprenticeships (Continued employment opportunities) 
●  Business Investment Grants (Funding for entrepreneurial endeavors) 

Through this structured pathway, WGLA empowers foster youth with the skills, confidence, and support needed to achieve their dreams and contribute positively to society. 

Our Developing Programs

Unrecognizable female patient gestures as female therapist listens attentively

Grief Recovery & Entrepreneurial Development

“Trauma to Triumph” Overcoming Grief and Building Your Future

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Mentor and role model spending time with the youth.

Mentorship is the Key to Success!

Mentors are a vital part of our program as they add support and insperation during thier journey

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To a better future filled with opportunities

Rewards & Next Steps

Graduates of the paid internship and grief recovery program become eligible for one of three WGLA awards:

Scholarships (Trade school/college funding)
Apprenticeships (Continued employment opportunities)
Business Investment Grants (Funding for entrepreneurial endeavors)

More info

Donate Today!

Become a vital part of our mission to uplift and support Foster Youth in your community. Your generous donation can transform lives, creating a significant and enduring impact right where you live. Don't wait—make a difference today!

Empowering Foster Youth Together

Choosing us means supporting a dedicated team committed to making a tangible impact in your community and beyond. Our nonprofit is driven by a passionate commitment to enhance the lives of foster teens in our community, with programs that target education, health, and economic empowerment. We pride ourselves on transparency, accountability, and the measurable outcomes of our initiatives, ensuring every donation is maximized to foster positive change. Join us in this rewarding journey towards a more equitable society, where your involvement truly counts and every effort contributes to building a brighter future.

Help Us Transform Lives in Communities Across California

Become a vital part of our mission to uplift and support Foster Youth in your community. Your generous donation can transform lives, creating a significant and enduring impact right where you live. Don't wait—make a difference today!