A place for curious, caring young people to connect with nature and community, explore what matters, and create meaningful projects together.
A place for young people, in grades 5 - 8, who…
The Youth Collective is an eight-week after-school learning community for
North SLO County students in grades 5–8
Fall 2026 • Fridays, 4:00–5:30 PM • Templeton • Apply by August 21
Are curious about the world and love asking “why”
Care about people, animals, and the Earth
Want to take action to help in meaningful ways
OUR APPROACH: THE SOLUTIONARY FRAMEWORK
Choose a local question, problem, or possibility the group genuinely cares about.
The Youth Collective is inviting local students entering grades 5-8 from Paso Robles, Templeton, and Atascadero to apply for one of six founding spots in North SLO County’s new Youth Collective.
The Youth Collective is organized by Bridget Wann, a local educator who believes young people have important ideas, caring hearts, and a meaningful role to play in shaping the future.
Grades 5 - 8
Fall 2026
Six students per cohort
Identify
Innovate
Meeting Location:
Santa Lucia School, Templeton
Design thoughtful solutions that do the most good and least harm.
Investigate
Gather reliable information, listen to different perspectives, and explore root causes.
Fall Session Dates:
Fridays 4:00-5:30 pm
September 18th - November 6th
Implement
Put an idea into action, share the work, reflect, and celebrate.
$240 per 8 week session
*Scholarships available
Possible Topics for Exploration for the Youth Collective
Environmental Sustainability
Animal Protection & Care
Human Rights & Social Justice
Food Systems & Local Farms
Creeks, Beaches, & Watersheds
Arts, Culture & Storytelling
Compassion. Courage. Community.
The Youth Collective is inspired by the Institute for Humane Education’s Solutionary Framework.
Our learning and work are aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
We empower youth to create a more just, healthy, and sustainable world for people, animals, and the Earth.
The Youth Collective Program at a Glance
Change can begin with one question, one relationship, one place you love, or one idea worth trying.
At the Youth Collective, you will find people who care, explore problems more deeply, and turn curiosity into thoughtful action for people, animals, and the Earth.
If this sounds like a great fit for you, we invite you to apply for our fall session.
