To: MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL
From: ELIZABETH HAUSE, COMMUNITY SERVICES DIRECTOR
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RECEIVE AND FILE A REPORT ON TEEN CENTER ACTIVITIES AND PROGRAMMING
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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The Strategic Plan includes an Objective to "enhance available programming at the Teen Center." This report provides on update on the efforts made by staff over the past year to accomplish this goal.
The Teen Center, which was established in 1994 to provide a safe, supervised space for teens outside of school hours, was closed during the COVID-19 pandemic. Planning for its reopening was guided by the 2024-2025 Youth Commission and informed by extensive outreach to local teens. This included a comprehensive survey that garnered 214 responses, primarily from Redondo Beach residents, and directly influenced the design, amenities, and overall look and feel of the facility.
Design concepts were shared with teens and families during a May 2025 Open House, followed by continued collaboration with Youth Commissioners to finalize purchases and prepare the space for reopening. The Teen Center officially reopened on September 25, 2025, following a Ribbon Cutting Celebration featuring facility tours, youth performances, raffle prizes, and participation from numerous community partners.
Since reopening, the Teen Center has operated Monday through Friday, offering a welcoming environment for teens that includes a lounge, study, gaming, kitchen, and outdoor patio spaces. After adjusting the initial operating schedule to better align with teen attendance patterns, the Center now averages 30-35 teens on school days and 50-60 teens on non-school days. Programming blends open recreation with structured activities and monthly themed events, all shaped by teen input. Early operations demonstrate strong participation, meaningful engagement, and a solid foundation for long-term sustainability and growth.
BACKGROUND
Program Background, Reopening, and Initial Operations
The Teen Center ...
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