Kids in the spotlight

WEBSITE:
https://kitsinc.org

Since 2009, KITS has empowered youth impacted by the foster system to heal from trauma through transformative arts education. Now, Kids In The Spotlight is launching KITS Production Studio with Purpose [PSWP] will change life outcomes for youth in/from foster care by increasing career readiness, social capital, and resiliency. PSWP projects to generate 860 work opportunities annually as a workforce development program.

Program

Script to Screen

The heart of KITS is our Script-to-Screen (S2S) program, an immersive experience that connects youth with entertainment industry mentors. Aimed at filmmakers aged 12-24, this 10-15 week program allows participants to tell their stories authentically. From script creation and acting principles to casting and hands-on filmmaking, youth explore their creativity in a supportive environment. Under the guidance of industry mentors, participants work together in writers' rooms, working collaboratively to refine their scripts while gaining invaluable career insights. Acting classes provide new communication tools, and auditions, both for themselves and professional actors, empower them with decision-making skills. On production day, professional directors and crews of up to 40 volunteers per film, partner with the youth to bring cinematic visions to life, offering shadowing opportunities and mentorship. The program culminates with the KITS Film Awards, an Oscar-style celebration that recognizes achievements and premieres the films on the silver screen.