Teen Programs

Lakewood teens are invited to check out the social activities at Lakewood's two teen centers, as well as the special events and involvement opportunities described below. 

Check the Teen Activity Calendar at the bottom of the page.

Teen Programs

College Fair

Each October, the College Fair brings more than 50 colleges around the nation to Lakewood to provide information about admissions, programs and campus life.

California universities, colleges from across the country, community colleges, trade schools, military and specialized programs are all represented at this FREE event.

For more information about the College Fair, contact the Lakewood Youth Center at 562-429-7472 or check the Lakewood Events Calendar.

Youth in Government

The Youth in Government program encourages the youth of Lakewood to immerse themselves in civic engagement and develop an understanding of civic values. In addition, participants will contribute their own ideas to provide a positive impact on the Lakewood community. The goal is to create an advisory board consisting of Lakewood residents in grades 10 through 12, who will meet throughout the year to discuss issues, recommend policy, and provide feedback to the Lakewood City Council.

View the program flyer(PDF, 610KB) for application information and important dates for the Youth in Government program.

Community Service Opportunities

Lakewood teens who would like the chance to make a difference in their community, meet new friends, share ideas, learn life skills, develop job skills and fulfill community service hours can participate in these programs. Call the Lakewood Youth Center at 562-429-7472 for information on how to get started.

Teens in Lakewood Care

The award-winning "Teens in Lakewood Care" (TLC) program needs teens to help provide free home maintenance to Lakewood residents who are physically unable to do the work themselves. TLC volunteers work on selected Saturday mornings in July and October to wash windows, clean up yards, paint and other home-related chores.

Teen Volunteer Program

Lakewood has many opportunities for teen volunteers with city park and human service programs or in community and civic groups. It's a great way to gain job experience or help fulfill community service hours needed for school credit.

Neighborhood parks use volunteers to assist recreation leaders with duties such as crafts, sports field preparation, office work and Special Olympics programs.

To participate, teens must be:

• at least 12 years of age
• willing to follow through on a volunteer commitment
• interested in helping the community

All volunteers must have an up to date Teen Volunteer Application on file with the Lakewood Youth Center.

Lakewood Teen Action Committee

The Lakewood Teen Action Committee or "LTAC" is a teen-run community service program for all middle school and high school teens in the Lakewood area. LTAC provides teens opportunities to volunteer their time in meaningful ways. Members participate in activities and workshops that build self-esteem, teach life skills, develop job skills and help resolve conflict.

LTAC meets on the third Tuesday of the month from September through May. View the brochure for more information(PDF, 6MB).

Want to learn more?

For more information on these and other events, see the Recreation and Community Services catalog for the current Teen Scene section, or call the Lakewood Youth Center at 562-429-7472.