The school year is underway and so is a new season of after-school fun.
This fall, Kids Like Me and Advance LA are welcoming children, teens, and young adults back for enrichment programs designed to give every participant a place to explore their interests, connect with peers, and build confidence.
Something for Every Kid
After school can be some of the best hours of the day. It’s a chance to try something new, spend time with friends, and discover an interest that might just become a passion.
That’s what Kids Like Me is all about. Across our Sherman Oaks and Valley Glen campuses, children and teens ages 6–17 can spend their afternoons cooking, creating, experimenting, moving, playing games, and connecting with other kids.
And because no two kids are alike, neither are our programs. Activities are designed for a range of support needs, with different group settings and levels of structure so more kids can participate in ways that feel comfortable, engaging, and successful.
On Fridays, Game Club gives kids and teens a particularly fun way to wrap up the week. Games provide a natural starting point for conversation, teamwork, friendly competition, and plenty of laughs, with opportunities to build social skills happening along the way.
A Chance for Teens to Lead
For some teens, after school is also an opportunity to begin thinking about what comes next.
Through the Kids Like Me Counselor in Training (CIT) Program, teens ages 13–17 can step into new responsibilities while still being part of the fun. Working alongside staff and supporting younger participants gives CITs real-world opportunities to practice communication, teamwork, leadership, and responsibility.
It’s a first taste of what it feels like to be counted on and a chance for teens to see just how much they’re capable of.
“My teenager has had the best time in the CIT program. It’s been so great for him. He feels happy, useful, and really enjoys being part of it!”
— Kids Like Me Parent
Explore Kids Like Me After-School Enrichment
And the Fun Doesn’t Stop at 18
Help Group’s after-school programming continues into young adulthood through Advance LA.
Designed for young adults ages 18–22 with moderate to low support needs, Advance LA’s Fall Enrichment Program combines social connection with opportunities to strengthen independence, confidence, and life skills.
This fall, participants can join a Cooking class at our Sherman Oaks campus, where learning basic kitchen skills and trying new recipes creates opportunities to build confidence and independence along the way.
And enrichment is only part of the picture. Club LA and Vibe & Thrive give neurodivergent young adults ages 18–29 more ways to build friendships, get out into the community, and enjoy an active social life.
Club LA offers welcoming, supported social activities for young adults who benefit from more support. Coming up next is a Halloween Bash on October 23 from 5:30–7:30 p.m., with a festive evening to celebrate together.
Join Club LA for the Halloween Bash
Vibe & Thrive brings young adults with lower support needs together for outings and activities in the community, creating natural opportunities to connect with peers and build friendships. This Friday, September 25, the group is heading out for a bowling night.
Join Vibe & Thrive for Bowling Night
“Young adulthood is a time to discover new interests, build friendships, and find a sense of belonging,” said Fatima, Program Director. “Our arts and recreation programs provide neurodivergent young adults with welcoming opportunities to have fun, express themselves, explore their creativity, and connect with others in a supportive community.”
Whether someone is learning a new skill, heading out for an evening with friends, or simply finding a place where they feel comfortable being themselves, the goal is the same: creating opportunities for neurodivergent young adults to belong, grow, and stay connected.
Explore Advance LA Adult Enrichment
October 16, 2026
Skirball Cultural Center