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By Lookout Staff

October 8 – Police officers, students, City Council members and youngsters who have had a brsuh with the law were among the 200 people who gathered for the grand opening of the Pico Youth and Family Center’s new home this weekend.

The opening comes one year after the center -- -- which gives at risk youth an alternative to hanging out on the streets -- moved from its home up the block into the vacant space next to a bicycle shop at 711 Pico Boulevard.

Police Chief Tim Jackman and Oscar de la Torre prepare to cut ribbon.

For the past year workers and volunteers have transformed the space, installing a new roof and air conditioning, renovating the bathrooms, putting in new floors, painting the walls and setting up a recording studio, staff offices and conference rooms.

“This grand opening is the celebration of our expansion,” said Oscar de la Torre, the center’s director and president of the School Board. “We are adding a film training and production program to build on the success of our recording studio.

“The Digital Dream Center will provide access to technology and teach marketable skills that can lead to a career path in Santa Monica’s blossoming entertainment industry,”

At the new location, youth will receive counseling, case management, tutoring, leadership development, violence prevention training and culturally relevant programming, said officials of the center, which opened in 2002.

From left: City Council members Ken Genser, Bobby Shriver and Kevin McKeown join de la Torre

The center uses Hip Hop culture and a comprehensive service plan to steer youth from the city’s poorest and most diverse neighborhood on a productive path.

“It has saved lives and has been on the frontline addressing youth violence,” said Julian Ayala, a recent graduate of Samohi who lives in the Pico Neighborhood. “I can say that our community is safer and youth like myself have benefited from the work and services.

“I’m glad our center is back, new and improved,” Ayala said.

The center’s opening was made possible with help from the City of Santa Monica, Saint Johns Health Center and various local businesses, such as Lionsgate Entertainment and Hines, which owns the Lantana production center.

“We appreciate the support we have received,” said Amanda Seward, who chairs the center’s board. “Our youth deserve a first rate youth center where the services offered address their needs.