Youth Empowerment Programs
Every year, The Crucible connects with more than 5,000 young people through a range of programs. Our engaging and inspiring workshops, summer camps, Oakland Public School collaborations, pre-professional trainings, and leadership programs help youth solidify STEAM concepts, build confidence, explore artistic and industrial career pathways, and develop problem-solving skills they can use in all aspects of their lives.
Our Signature Programs
The Crucible’s Youth Program provides our most engaged students with meaningful pre-professional training, mentoring, and career counseling. Through a graduated learning structure, youth progress through different programs, projects, and classes, culminating—for our most motivated students—in paid positions in the Fuego Youth Leadership Program and/or Pre-Apprentice Program.
Where The Student Becomes The Teacher
A West Oakland staple for over fifteen years, we have watched young people grow up in our Youth Programs, explore their creativity and begin to master their artistic disciplines. Some discovered a true passion and now—as adults—have joined The Crucible’s regular faculty. Read more of their stories on our blog.
“Five or six years ago, I wasn’t even able to make eye contact or speak with people. Now I am constantly explaining things, because fortunately I was put in an environment where I could grow.”
– Robert Collins,
Welding instructor
“Because of all of the support I have been given, I am in a place to give that support back to many other students. I want to be a role model to some of the high school girls. It will make me feel better to know I inspired some girls to do what I do.”
– Katia Navidad Rallon,
Woodworking instructor
“It taught me to push forward, even when I might feel uncomfortable. I was the only girl in the Pre-Apprentice Program, but I had female teachers who were so badass and strong, that I was inspired to get my hands dirty.”
– Jazzy Schwinges-Williams,
Welding Instructor
“I’m an artist at heart, but I also love teaching. It’s awesome to see somebody I’ve taught become inspired to do more art. It’s great to have that sense that somebody is looking up to you.”
– Adrian Rodriguez,
Blacksmithing Instructor