WATSONVILLE — Tonight, a dance and art show will be held at Watsonville’s Gene Hoularis and Waldo Rodriguez Youth Center to raise money for homeless youth in Santa Cruz County.
Organizer Anissa Banuelos worked with the Community Action Board (CAB) of Santa Cruz County to put together the event as part of her senior project at California State University Monterey Bay. Banuelos, who is majoring in collaborative health and human services with an emphasis in social work, was required to put in 240 hours of internship time at a local organization.
“I saw this as an opportunity to make a real impact,” she said.
Banuelos said that she has been following the current housing crisis and the rise in homelessness in Santa Cruz County and knew she wanted to have it be the focus on her project.
Banuelos collaborated with CAB’s new Youth Homeless Response Team, which aims to support homeless youth who are part of the program by helping to fund their bus passes, clothing, school supplies and other essentials, as well as provide resources.
Banuelos, who has been a dancer since she was young, said that tonight’s event, dubbed “Dance 4 Youth” is a bridging of her two biggest passions: the arts and local community outreach.
“I was born and raised in Watsonville,” she stated. “There is so much talent here, and lots of people who care about this community.”
“Dance 4 Youth” will feature not only dance performances but also a magic show, spoken word poetry and more—all by local artists. Doors will open at 6:30 p.m. for a 7 p.m. show at the center, located at 30 Maple Ave. in Watsonville.
Tickets are $10 in advance at eventbrite.com and $15 at the door. Children 7 years or young are free.
For information contact Banuelos at ba*************@gm***.com.
