Currently, at-risk youth in our communities are overlooked, underappreciated and underestimated because of the economy, poverty, budget cuts in education and other detrimental factors. We believe our future is at stake. It is proven in many statistics that these kids, when not provided positive resources, activities and role models, have a higher chance of being involved in gangs, violence and crime.

Mission: ASK Long Beach’s ultimate goal is to be a valuable resource for the community’s at-risk youth so that they may obtain the life skills needed to grow into responsible, productive citizens.

Strategy: ASK Long Beach provides means to confront these issues by focusing on three major areas:

1. Safe Environments—create places where youth can focus on positive activities and not negative external influences.

2. Activities—provide events, programs and other resources where youth can showcase their talents.

3. Education—demonstrate the importance of school and the life skills it teaches so that at-risk youth commit to acquiring an education.

We accomplish these objectives by involving youth, local businesses, schools, the city and other organizations to provide win-win situations.