Grantee Database

Unearth and Empower Communities

Grant Year

2026-27

Grant Program

General Operating Support

Award Amount

$12,000.00

Project Description

With support from the California Arts Council, UNEARTH and EMPOWER COMMUNITIES will expand arts programming for underserved youth in Compton and South Los Angeles. From middle and high school students creating community murals with master artists, to teens writing and directing Art Camp skits, to young children discovering printmaking for the first time, creativity is central to UEC’s mission. We believe arts and culture are essential to community vitality and youth development. Research shows students involved in the arts achieve stronger educational outcomes, which is why UEC begins arts engagement early, connecting youth to culturally rooted creative experiences that encourage lifelong participation in the arts. We anticipate providing arts programs to 500+ youth in 2026/2027.

Organization Summary

Community Art Camp (Ages 3 – 9th Grade)
A free, five-day summer experience where Compton youth dance, sing, draw, paint, and create together. Through the arts, students build confidence, critical thinking, collaboration, and creative problem-solving skills in a joyful, community-centered environment.

Little Creators (Ages 0–4 + Caregivers)
Free monthly sensory play meet-ups and parent connection classes designed for our youngest learners and their guardians. We support early motor skill development, creativity, and meaningful caregiver bonding through hands-on exploration.

Compton Mural Project (7th–12th Grade)
A three-month civic arts cohort guiding 25 youth through Compton history, social justice conversations, leadership development, and mural design. Students use art as a tool for voice, confidence, and community impact.

Houses of STEAM (K–6 + Families)
Hands-on STEAM learning for youth and their families through building projects, field trips, and mentorship from BIPOC professionals. We strengthen academic confidence and expand career exposure in science, technology, engineering, arts, and math.

DiscoverU Enrichment Center (2nd–8th Grade)
A safe afterschool space (Mon–Thurs, 3–6:30pm) focused on discovery, connection, and STEAM enrichment. DiscoverU supports academic growth, mentorship, and belonging for Compton youth.

Pathways Program (Post-High School)
Supporting graduates as they pursue college, career training, or entrepreneurship through scholarships, grants, and mentorship. We prepare students for long-term success and leadership.

Compton Youth Career Pathways (Ages 14–24)
A workforce development program offering job shadowing, community service, career exposure, and paid internships to prepare youth for sustainable employment and economic mobility.

Organization

Unearth and Empower Communities

Address

1317 N Pearl Ave

Compton

90221

County

Los Angeles

Region

South – Los Angeles & Orange

Website

Email

Congressional District

43rd

State Assembly District

65th

State Senate District

35th

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