Volunteers Needed for DTLA Youth Film and Mental Health Event

Youth Creating Change believes in the true power of young people. Combining arts-based curricula and a commitment to youth empowerment, our programs facilitate healing and belonging through creative expression, encourage help-seeking, equip youth to support their peers, and reduce stigma to normalize important conversations around suicide prevention and mental health. In pursuing our mission of youth-empowerment around mental health, we also seek to remind our participants that their experiences and feelings matter by allowing them to safely process emotions around current events and elevating voices that speak up for change. Youth that participate in our contests don’t just learn about mental health and suicide prevention - they also collaborate with peers, share their unique perspectives, and create films and art that reduce stigma and show those who are struggling that they aren’t alone. In doing so, these youth also learn first-hand how impactful their voices and their stories can be in shaping narratives around these topics; supporting inclusive communities where others feel seen, heard, and safe opening up to others; and providing much-needed sources of hope in these uncertain times.

Ahead of our 14th Annual Directing Change Screening and Award Ceremony, we are seeking volunteers to serve as ushers OR photographers for the event. This event will screen short films about mental health, suicide prevention, and substance use created by young people across California and will be attended by students, educators, and other partners.

Volunteers will need to be available to provide in-person support from 10 am to 12 pm on Thursday, May 21st at The United Theater on Broadway (929 South Broadway, Los Angeles, CA 90015). Volunteers will also have the option to stay and view the full ceremony from 12 pm to 2 pm.

In addition to ushers who can guide students and other guests to their seats, we are also seeking a few people to serve as red carpet photographers (photographers will need to provide their own cameras). If you are available and interested in volunteering, email dori@youthcreatingchange.org for more information before May 11th. (Please do not sign up through Idealist).

Youth Creating Change Website: https://youthcreatingchange.org/

Directing Change Film Contest Website: https://directingchangeca.org/

2026 Directing Change Screening and Award Ceremony Eventbrite: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/14th-annual-directing-change-screening-and-award-ceremony-tickets-1830721309719?aff=oddtdtcreator