Grantee Database
THE DAVID S HARP FOUNDATION INC
Grant Year
2024-25
Grant Program
Creative Youth Development
Award Amount
$17,360.00
Project Description
With support from the California Arts Council, The David’s Harp Foundation will empower justice-involved youth at East Mesa and Kearny Mesa Juvenile Detention Facilities through culturally relevant media production programs. This initiative aims to elevate the voices of marginalized youth, especially those reintegrating into the community after the closure of state facilities. By offering art-making opportunities, mentorship from trusted adults, and equitable access to the local creative economy, we provide a holistic support system for these young individuals. Grant funds will be used to employ graduates of TDHF who have successfully completed probation, hiring them as beat-making instructors to work alongside our Artist Mentors within all county juvenile detention facilities. This ensures continuity of support and the development of a strong, positive community for youth both during and after their time in the detention facilities.
Organization Summary
The David’s Harp Foundation (TDHF) is a Creative Youth Development organization dedicated to transforming the lives of youth affected by homelessness, incarceration, and the foster care system. We offer comprehensive programs in digital music (Hip-Hop) and multimedia production, creating safe, culturally relevant spaces where young people can develop meaningful relationships with our Artist Mentors while learning industry-standard media production techniques.
Our core programs and services include:
The Student Studio: This program offers six-week project-based learning cycles in music production, tech literacy, and academic support. Youth build long-term mentoring relationships with Artist Mentors, creating a nurturing space for personal and academic growth. Graduates can join the Biz Pod Program, gaining insights into the business side of the music industry.
Beats Behind the Wall: This initiative brings our recording studio programming to incarceration facilities. Through a six-week modular curriculum, youth learn music production and receive mentorship from Artist Mentors. Post-release, they can pursue audio engineering internships and job opportunities, guided by our Artist Mentors.
Biz Pod Program: A creative content business incubator for youth aged 18-24, this program offers entrepreneurial training and practical experience in video content creation for high-profile clients. Participants earn a livable wage, gain academic credits through UCSD Extension, and receive mentorship, fostering resilience and leadership. The program has successfully launched five youth-led businesses.
Studio Nights: In partnership with San Diego Youth Services, this program offers nightly creative engagement youth who are unhoused where they can explore music and poetry. Youth transitioning from the shelter can join other TDHF programs, ensuring continuity of support.
Transformation House (The LaunchPad): An innovative housing solution for transitional-aged youth in the Biz Pod Program, this initiative provides affordable housing with financial empowerment. Youth contribute $500/month rent, saved in escrow and returned after 12 months as $6,000 for moving expenses.
Organization
The David's Harp Foundation, Inc.
Address
705 16th Street
San Diego
92101
County
San Diego
Region
Far South
Phone
(858) 707-5855
Congressional District
California's 52nd congressional district
State Assembly District
District 78
State Senate District
District 39
