Our mission is to transform East Oakland into a healthy and economically robust community by developing the leadership of youth and young adults and improving the systems that impact them. Located in the heart of East Oakland, YU is a neighborhood hub offering young people services and programs to increase physical and mental wellbeing, community connection, educational attainment, and career achievement among youth members. Through creative expression, young people hone their ability to communicate, acquire cultural literacy, gain industry knowledge, and, most importantly, develop their voice as community leaders. YU gives youth the opportunity to articulate their experiences and express their creativity through fine arts instruction, multimedia production, and performing arts.
The 3,600 sq. ft. Media Arts Center features three vocal/engineering set-ups, a live music room, four video finishing rooms, and a fully equipped computer lab. The 950 sq. ft. Dance Studio features a sprung hardwood floor and floor-to-ceiling mirrors, and the 1,500 sq. ft. Moroccan Soul Living Room features an indoor/outdoor amphitheater. YU’s campus is a regional venue, hosting public events that regularly attract attendees from all over the Bay Area. YU’s Visual Art workshops integrate fine arts with training in applied digital arts to enable youth to develop vocational skills as well as a professional portfolio of their work.
Offerings include: Beginning and Advanced Studio Art Digital Photography Graphic Design Web Design
