L.A. Youth, the monthly print and online publication that serves 400,000 plus readers in the Los Angeles area, has produced its final issue after 25 years.
The organization, dedicated to shedding light to teenage struggles through “personal journalism,” will close its doors at the end of February due to economic hardships and foundation cuts.
Since 1988, this registered non-profit has received funds from more than 50,000 contributors. A recent move in offices has also “overburdened [the] budget and placed and undue amount of financial strain on the L.A. Youth family,” said Executive director Donna Myrow.
During its past 25 years, L.A. Youth has published countless first-hand accounts on a variety of topics dealing with homosexuality, abuse, drug use, family problems and teen pregnancy catering to the 350,000 youth in Los Angeles County. In turn, their involvement with teen staff members has provided a safe outlet.
“Our writers were encouraged to express their feelings: we wanted their voices to shine through. Instead of traditional newspaper style, our stories would be narratives, each with a beginning, a middle, and an end,” said Myrow in a letter written on behalf of L.A. Youth anniversary issue.
The L.A. Youth family believes that, during their existence, they have changed the world in a positive light and hope their legacy will continue.
