Programs > Youth Services

Youth Services

Academic and occupational programs for children and youth

Our Youth Services

The VCH team regularly solicits feedback from tenants and creates programming based on their needs.

Through this holistic approach, VCH has developed several successful programs that target the children and youth in its buildings and throughout the broader community. VCH’s Study Lounge and Westside Youth Academy serve young people who need additional support to overcome housing insecurity, succeed academically, and build professional development skills. 

Westside Youth Academy

Westside Youth Academy provides education, job training, and leadership development services to approximately 20 transition aged youth each year.

The program is open to any youth looking to earn their high school diploma or the equivalent and develop professional skills. The program also helps place students in post-secondary education, internships, or job placements. Participants receive individualized support and case management.

Program Requirements

  • Proof of low-income
  • Must need high school diploma or equivalent
  • Proof of Covid-19 vaccination

Supportive services

Enrolled Westside Youth Academy participants have access to supportive services such as: assistance with document attainment, access to food donations, transportation assistance, referrals to mental health and counseling services, referrals to medical and mental health providers, assistance with housing insecurity, assistance or proof of enrollment for probation or parole, and more.

Academic Support

Individualized Education Program (IEP) and additional support for specialized learning needs are available. If you need help with learning a specific subject or studying for the high school exit exam, tutors are also available.

For questions regarding the Westside Youth Academy, please contact the program manager at (310) 573-8415.

Westside Youth Academy Resources

Student reading in the VCH Study Lounge
Student and teacher in the VCH Study Lounge

Study Lounge

Venice Community Housing is committed to providing valuable social services to low-income children and youth living in our buildings and the surrounding neighborhoods.

The Study Lounge after school program provides free supplementary academic support, including tutoring, mentoring, and recreational activities to approximately 50 students each year. Study Lounge activities include:

  • Year-round tutoring with a focus on literacy development
  • Recreational and civic development curriculum
  • Summer camp and field trips