Application Now Open · Limited Spots Available
What If Your Teen Could Build Real Sustainable Leadership Skills, Serve Their Community, and Gain an Experience That Colleges Actually Notice?
Youth Sustaining Peace is a selective, hands-on program where young leaders don't just talk about making a difference — they do it. Watch what past participants and their families have to say, then see if your youth qualifies.
Application Now Open · Limited Spots Available
What If Your Teen Could Build Real Sustainable Leadership Skills, Serve Their Community, and Gain an Experience That Colleges Actually Notice?
Youth Sustaining Peace is a selective, hands-on program where young leaders don't just talk about making a difference — they do it. Watch what past participants and their families have to say, then see if your youth qualifies.
See the Transformation Firsthand
Real Youth. Real Growth. Real Impact.
Hear directly from past participants and their parents about how Youth Sustaining Peace gave them leadership skills, community connections, and a sense of purpose that changed their trajectory.
Every year, a small group of dedicated young people are selected to join this program. The results speak for themselves.
See the Transformation Firsthand
Real Youth. Real Growth. Real Impact.
Hear directly from past participants and their parents about how Youth Sustaining Peace gave them leadership skills, community connections, and a sense of purpose that changed their trajectory.
Every year, a small group of dedicated young people are selected to join this program. The results speak for themselves.
What This Program Means
for Your Family
For Parents
- A safe, structured, and supervised environment
- Your teen is supported every step of the way by experienced facilitators in a trusted setting at the Oakland Peace Center.
- Meaningful skill-building beyond the classroom
- Students develop real-world skills in leadership, communication, and environmental sustainability, including zero waste practices and community engagement.
- A credential that strengthens future opportunities
- Participants earn a certificate and gain hands-on experience that supports college applications, scholarships, and career pathways.
- A community that inspires growth and accountability
- Your teen will be surrounded by mentors and peers who encourage leadership, responsibility, and positive action.
- Real-world environmental impact
- Participants contribute to zero waste efforts, sustainability education, and community outreach, helping create a healthier, more resilient Oakland.
- Peace of mind for families
- You can feel confident knowing your child is spending their time in a program that is safe, meaningful, and focused on their growth, leadership, and future.
For Youth
- Build real leadership skills that make you stand out
Develop confidence, communication, and leadership skills that help you stand out in school, college applications, and future opportunities. - Be part of a community that cares about change
Connect with other motivated young people who want to make a real difference in their communities and the environment. - Work on issues that matter to you
From zero waste to environmental justice, you’ll take action on real challenges in your own community—your voice matters here. - Gain experience that opens doors
Build a network, gain real-world experience, and strengthen your path toward college, jobs, and leadership opportunities. - Earn a $100 stipend
Receive a stipend in recognition of your participation, commitment, and contributions to the program. - Receive a certificate of completion
Walk away with a credential you can include in college applications, resumes, and portfolios. - Get a letter of recommendation
Eligible participants can receive a letter of recommendation to support future academic and career opportunities. - Celebrate with an end-of-program gift bag
Receive a curated gift bag to recognize your achievements and participation in the program.
What This Program Means
for Your Family
For Parents
- A safe, structured, and supervised environment
- Your teen is supported every step of the way by experienced facilitators in a trusted setting at the Oakland Peace Center.
- Meaningful skill-building beyond the classroom
- Students develop real-world skills in leadership, communication, and environmental sustainability, including zero waste practices and community engagement.
- A credential that strengthens future opportunities
- Participants earn a certificate and gain hands-on experience that supports college applications, scholarships, and career pathways.
- A community that inspires growth and accountability
- Your teen will be surrounded by mentors and peers who encourage leadership, responsibility, and positive action.
- Real-world environmental impact
- Participants contribute to zero waste efforts, sustainability education, and community outreach, helping create a healthier, more resilient Oakland.
- Peace of mind for families
- You can feel confident knowing your child is spending their time in a program that is safe, meaningful, and focused on their growth, leadership, and future.
For Youth
- Build real leadership skills that make you stand out
Develop confidence, communication, and leadership skills that help you stand out in school, college applications, and future opportunities. - Be part of a community that cares about change
Connect with other motivated young people who want to make a real difference in their communities and the environment. - Work on issues that matter to you
From zero waste to environmental justice, you’ll take action on real challenges in your own community—your voice matters here. - Gain experience that opens doors
Build a network, gain real-world experience, and strengthen your path toward college, jobs, and leadership opportunities. - Earn a $100 stipend
Receive a stipend in recognition of your participation, commitment, and contributions to the program. - Receive a certificate of completion
Walk away with a credential you can include in college applications, resumes, and portfolios. - Get a letter of recommendation
Eligible participants can receive a letter of recommendation to support future academic and career opportunities. - Celebrate with an end-of-program gift bag
Receive a curated gift bag to recognize your achievements and participation in the program.
This Program Is Selective
for a Reason
We don't accept every applicant — and that's by design. Youth Sustaining Peace works because every participant is genuinely committed to growth, service, and showing up fully. That's what makes the experience transformative for everyone involved.
This Is for You If:
- You're a young person (or parent of one) who wants more than surface-level activities
- You're ready to commit your time and energy to something meaningful
- You care about your community and want to make a real difference
- You want to develop leadership skills that last a lifetime
- No prior experience needed — just genuine motivation and willingness to grow
This Is Not for You If:
- You're looking for something to just fill time with no real engagement
- You're not willing to attend sessions consistently and participate fully
- You're not open to working with diverse peers and perspectives
- You want a passive experience — this program requires active contribution
This Program Is Selective
for a Reason
We don't accept every applicant — and that's by design. Youth Sustaining Peace works because every participant is genuinely committed to growth, service, and showing up fully. That's what makes the experience transformative for everyone involved.
This Is for You If:
- You're a young person (or parent of one) who wants more than surface-level activities
- You're ready to commit your time and energy to something meaningful
- You care about your community and want to make a real difference
- You want to develop leadership skills that last a lifetime
- No prior experience needed — just genuine motivation and willingness to grow
This Is Not for You If:
- You're looking for something to just fill time with no real engagement
- You're not willing to attend sessions consistently and participate fully
- You're not open to working with diverse peers and perspectives
- You want a passive experience — this program requires active contribution
What the Experience Looks Like
Youth Sustaining Peace is designed to be immersive, structured, and genuinely life-changing. Here's what participants can expect:
Hands-On Learning
Interactive workshops, real-world sustainability projects, and hands-on skill-building sessions that go far beyond lectures. Participants learn by doing—exploring zero waste solutions, leading environmental initiatives, and working alongside experienced mentors to create meaningful impact in their communities.
Mentorship Support
Every participant is guided by experienced mentors who provide support, accountability, and encouragement throughout the program. This is not a drop-off program—it’s a fully supported journey where youth are mentored as they grow into environmental leaders, take action on sustainability, and build confidence from start to finish.
Lasting Impact
Participants leave with practical skills in zero waste and environmental sustainability, a portfolio of real community impact, strong peer connections, and a credential they can carry into college applications, job opportunities, and future leadership pathways.
Program Schedule & Weekly Themes
All sessions take place from 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM at the Oakland Peace Center
June 6, 2026
Zero Waste Foundations & Community Action
Intro to Zero Waste, Reusables & Litter Prevention
Kick off the program by learning the basics of zero waste and sustainability. Participate in a hands-on litter cleanup and explore how everyday actions can create real environmental impact.
June 13, 2026
Composting & Food Systems
Turning Waste into Resources
Learn how composting works, why food systems matter, and how soil health connects to sustainability and climate solutions.
June 20, 2026
Clean Energy & Climate Solutions
Powering a Sustainable Future
Explore clean energy, climate change solutions, and how communities can transition toward more sustainable systems.
June 27, 2026
Community Outreach & Environmental Leadership
Taking Action in Your Community
Develop outreach skills and engage in real-world environmental education, helping residents understand recycling, composting, and sustainability practices.
July 11, 2026
Communication for Change
Public Speaking & Advocacy
Learn how to confidently present ideas, tell your story, and communicate solutions that inspire others to take action.
July 18, 2026
Final Presentations & Celebration
Youth Leadership in Action
Present your work, share your impact, and celebrate your journey as a youth leader in sustainability and community change.
Participants are strongly encouraged to attend all required sessions to receive the full program experience, including:
Large call to action headline
- Certificate of completion
- Letter of recommendation eligibility
- Stipend and program recognition
Large call to action headline
What the Experience Looks Like
Youth Sustaining Peace is designed to be immersive, structured, and genuinely life-changing. Here's what participants can expect:
Hands-On Learning
Interactive workshops, real-world sustainability projects, and hands-on skill-building sessions that go far beyond lectures. Participants learn by doing—exploring zero waste solutions, leading environmental initiatives, and working alongside experienced mentors to create meaningful impact in their communities.
Mentorship Support
Every participant is guided by experienced mentors who provide support, accountability, and encouragement throughout the program. This is not a drop-off program—it’s a fully supported journey where youth are mentored as they grow into environmental leaders, take action on sustainability, and build confidence from start to finish.
Lasting Impact
Participants leave with practical skills in zero waste and environmental sustainability, a portfolio of real community impact, strong peer connections, and a credential they can carry into college applications, job opportunities, and future leadership pathways.
Program Schedule
&
Weekly Themes
All sessions take place from 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM at the Oakland Peace Center
June 6, 2026
Zero Waste Foundations & Community Action
Intro to Zero Waste, Reusables & Litter Prevention
Kick off the program by learning the basics of zero waste and sustainability. Participate in a hands-on litter cleanup and explore how everyday actions can create real environmental impact.
June 13, 2026
Composting & Food Systems
Turning Waste into Resources
Learn how composting works, why food systems matter, and how soil health connects to sustainability and climate solutions.
June 20, 2026
Clean Energy & Climate Solutions
Powering a Sustainable Future
Explore clean energy, climate change solutions, and how communities can transition toward more sustainable systems.
June 27, 2026
Community Outreach & Environmental Leadership
Taking Action in Your Community
Develop outreach skills and engage in real-world environmental education, helping residents understand recycling, composting, and sustainability practices.
July 11, 2026
Communication for Change
Public Speaking & Advocacy
Learn how to confidently present ideas, tell your story, and communicate solutions that inspire others to take action.
July 18, 2026
Final Presentations & Celebration
Youth Leadership in Action
Present your work, share your impact, and celebrate your journey as a youth leader in sustainability and community change.
Participants are strongly encouraged to attend all required sessions to receive the full program experience, including:
Large call to action headline
- Certificate of completion
- Letter of recommendation eligibility
- Stipend and program recognition
Large call to action headline
Join the Production Crew
(Limited Opportunity)
Take your experience to the next level
A select group of participants will have the opportunity to join the Youth Sustaining Peace Production Crew—a hands-on media team documenting the program and sharing powerful stories of youth leadership and environmental action.
As part of the Production Crew, you will:
- Assist with filming and behind-the-scenes production
- Help conduct interviews with participants and community members
- Contribute to storytelling and script development
- Capture real moments of environmental action and youth leadership
- Be part of creating a youth-led documentary
Why Join the Production Crew?
- Gain real media and storytelling experience
- Build skills in film, communication, and creative direction
- Be part of a meaningful project that highlights community impact
- Stand out with unique experience for college, internships, and careers
- Work closely with mentors in a collaborative creative environment
Additional Benefits
- Receive an additional stipend for your role
- Get recognition as part of the official production team
- Contribute to a final documentary shared with the community
Limited Spots Available
Be sure to indicate your interest in the application form.
Production Crew positions are limited and selected through the application process.
Join the Production Crew
(Limited Opportunity)
Take your experience to the next level
A select group of participants will have the opportunity to join the Youth Sustaining Peace Production Crew—a hands-on media team documenting the program and sharing powerful stories of youth leadership and environmental action.
As part of the Production Crew, you will:
- Assist with filming and behind-the-scenes production
- Help conduct interviews with participants and community members
- Contribute to storytelling and script development
- Capture real moments of environmental action and youth leadership
- Be part of creating a youth-led documentary
Why Join the Production Crew?
- Gain real media and storytelling experience
- Build skills in film, communication, and creative direction
- Be part of a meaningful project that highlights community impact
- Stand out with unique experience for college, internships, and careers
- Work closely with mentors in a collaborative creative environment
Additional Benefits
- Receive an additional stipend for your role
- Get recognition as part of the official production team
- Contribute to a final documentary shared with the community
Limited Spots Available
Be sure to indicate your interest in the application form.
Production Crew positions are limited and selected through the application process.
Questions Parents and Youth
Often Ask
Yes. The Youth Sustaining Peace Program is offered at no cost to participants. In addition, youth who complete the program will receive a $100 stipend in recognition of their time, commitment, and contributions.
The program is open to youth ages 12–18 in Alameda County who are interested in leadership, sustainability, and making a positive impact in their community. No prior experience is required.
All sessions take place at the Oakland Peace Center, located at:
550 24th Street, Oakland, CA 94612
Yes. All sessions are led by trained facilitators and mentors in structured, supervised environments. Your teen's safety and wellbeing is our top priority, and we maintain clear protocols and communication with families throughout the entire program experience.
No. This program is designed for youth at all levels. Participants will be guided step-by-step and supported by experienced mentors throughout the program.
Workshops take place on select Saturdays from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM during June and July. Participants are strongly encouraged to attend all sessions to receive the full program experience, benefits and qualify for entire $100 stipend.
Participants will gain hands-on experience in environmental sustainability, zero waste practices, leadership, communication, and community outreach, along with a certificate of completion, eligibility for a letter of recommendation, and real-world experience that supports future opportunities.
The Production Crew is a limited opportunity for selected participants to assist with filming, interviews, and storytelling for the program’s documentary. These participants will receive additional hands-on media experience and an added stipend.
You'll receive details about the full application process, what to expect, and clear next steps. Submitting your email is simply the first step to see if this might be the right fit for your family — there's no obligation and no pressure.
After submitting the application, families will be contacted with next steps. Applicants are also asked to submit a cover letter and one letter of recommendation to complete their application.
That’s completely okay. This program is designed to help youth build confidence in a supportive environment. Many participants start without experience and grow into strong leaders by the end of the program.
Absolutely. Participants gain real leadership experience, documented community service, and develop the kind of critical thinking and communication skills that admissions officers and scholarship committees actively seek. Many past participants credit the program in their applications.
Questions Parents and Youth
Often Ask
Yes. The Youth Sustaining Peace Program is offered at no cost to participants. In addition, youth who complete the program will receive a $100 stipend in recognition of their time, commitment, and contributions.
The program is open to youth ages 12–18 in Alameda County who are interested in leadership, sustainability, and making a positive impact in their community. No prior experience is required.
All sessions take place at the Oakland Peace Center, located at:
550 24th Street, Oakland, CA 94612
Yes. All sessions are led by trained facilitators and mentors in structured, supervised environments. Your teen's safety and wellbeing is our top priority, and we maintain clear protocols and communication with families throughout the entire program experience.
No. This program is designed for youth at all levels. Participants will be guided step-by-step and supported by experienced mentors throughout the program.
Workshops take place on select Saturdays from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM during June and July. Participants are strongly encouraged to attend all sessions to receive the full program experience, benefits and qualify for entire $100 stipend.
Participants will gain hands-on experience in environmental sustainability, zero waste practices, leadership, communication, and community outreach, along with a certificate of completion, eligibility for a letter of recommendation, and real-world experience that supports future opportunities.
The Production Crew is a limited opportunity for selected participants to assist with filming, interviews, and storytelling for the program’s documentary. These participants will receive additional hands-on media experience and an added stipend.
You'll receive details about the full application process, what to expect, and clear next steps. Submitting your email is simply the first step to see if this might be the right fit for your family — there's no obligation and no pressure.
After submitting the application, families will be contacted with next steps. Applicants are also asked to submit a cover letter and one letter of recommendation to complete their application.
That’s completely okay. This program is designed to help youth build confidence in a supportive environment. Many participants start without experience and grow into strong leaders by the end of the program.
Absolutely. Participants gain real leadership experience, documented community service, and develop the kind of critical thinking and communication skills that admissions officers and scholarship committees actively seek. Many past participants credit the program in their applications.
Ready to Take the First Step?
See If Your Youth Qualifies
for the Next Cohort
Enter your email and let us know your interest level. We'll send you everything you need to know about the application process, what to expect, and how to move forward. No spam, no pressure — just the information you need to make the right decision for your family.
Registration Closed
Friday, May 15th 9pm
This is just the first step — not a commitment. We'll walk you through everything from here.
Ready to Take the First Step?
See If Your Youth Qualifies
for the Next Cohort
Enter your email and let us know your interest level. We'll send you everything you need to know about the application process, what to expect, and how to move forward. No spam, no pressure — just the information you need to make the right decision for your family.
This is just the first step — not a commitment. We'll walk you through everything from here.