AVIVA CENTER
is an institution in Hollywood for 40 teenage girls who have experienced a great deal of abuse, neglect, violence or abandonment.

Sharmar Bibbins (writer/actress) taught a creative writing workshop.

Tamar Brott (screenwriter) taught a creative writing workshop.

Lydia Burkhalter (professional photographer) taught a photography class to a group of girls.

April Claytor (writer for HBO and Showtime) taught a creative writing workshop where the girls wrote their own book.

John Scott Lewinski (CD-ROM game designer/writer) taught a creative writing workshop and is now coaching the girls in sports.

Heather Holmberg (writer, children's TV/actress) taught a creative writing workshop.

Debra Wilson Skelton ("MAD-TV") gave an inspirational, life-changing seminar to all the girls.

Luisa Dantas (screenwriter) taught a screenwriting workshop.

Lisa Tomczeszyn (costume designer, "Daredevil", "Elektra") taught all the girls about costume design.

Talyn Khanbabyan (clothing designer) taught a popular fashion design workshop.

Amber Rice taught a creative writing workshop.

Create Now! donated 6 computers for their computer lab. We arranged for many of the girls to attend performances of Cirque du Soleil "Varekai" and "Ennio" and "Do Jump" at the Geffen Playhouse. We also donated dozens of music audiotapes and cassette players. In addition, Create Now! invited 25 of the girls to see Universoul Circus.

BEYOND SHELTER
is a homeless shelter in the Ramparts district.

Create Now! donated CDs and computer software.

BIENVENIDOS
is an emergency shelter for 50 children ages 0 to 9 who have been taken from their homes due to abuse, neglect and abandonment.

Create Now! arranged for a group of the kids to see "Puppetolio" at the Santa Monica Puppetry Center.

BOOTH MEMORIAL
near downtown Los Angeles is a home for 50 teenage girls who are on probation and who are pregnant or teenage mothers.

Babs Greyhosky (TV writer/producer, "Sheena") taught Shanell Walton (see Success Stories) how to write a feature script, which was optioned by a producer.

Create Now! donated a number of tickets for the girls to attend Cirque du Soleil.

BRESEE YOUTH CENTER
is a recreational center in the Ramparts district for hundreds of at-risk kids ages 11 to 18.

Create Now! donated computer games and software.

EL PASO DE ROBLES YOUTH CORRECTIONAL FACILITY (FORMERLY CALIFORNIA YOUTH AUTHORITY)
in Whittier was a state prison for youth who have committed serious crimes, such as murder.

Jill Gurr (Founder of Create Now!) mentored youth in screenwriting.

Create Now! donated 12 computers for all the inmates to use in their dormitories, which was a precedent for this institution.

CAMP DAVID GONZALEZ
is a juvenile detention center in Calabasas for 100 teenage boys.

Glenda Shaw (reality TV shows, "Montel") taught a creative writing workshop to a group of boys there.

Diane Namm (children's book author, screenwriter) taught a group of 20 inmates how to write a screenplay, as part of their school curriculum. Their stories were adapted for our performance of LA Street Scenes.

Mark Schulman (drummer, Cher's "Farewell" tour) is providing his motivational drumming program to all the residents.

CAMP FRED MILLER
is a juvenile detention center in Malibu with about 110 teenage boys.

Caroline Case ("Don't Say A Word," ) taught several screenwriting workshops. Two groups of boys completed their first screenplay and are now working on their own.

Elizabeth Bentley (USC MFA grad student, film for the Sci-Fi Channel) started a new screenwriting program. A group of boys wrote a short film script. Caroline Case ("The Imposters") continued the project.

Aaron Schneider (cinematographer, "Simon Birch", "Kiss the Girls") worked with the boys at the Camp in a Video Production Workshop, where they learned production techniques as their script was shot. Theresa Powers (Odyssey Channel) coordinated the project.

Harold Moret, Jr. (music producer on 11 platinum albums, including Dr. Dre's and D.J. Quick) taught a music workshop that included engineering, production, and A & R. His friends from Interscope Records and other professionals in the recording industry also taught a large group of boys about management, music techniques, writing, etc. Harold has worked with a number of the boys (after they graduate from the camp) at his recording studio on the CD "CAMP MILLER: THE ALBUM", which includes positive ways of dealing with their issues. One of the young men from this program has already signed a deal with a record producer. A second youth has sold two of his songs, which Harold produced, to Lionsgate Films for the soundtrack to the feature film "Gang Tapes." Another one of the boys worked with Harold to contribute a song to the soundtrack of "Training Day."

Mark Schulman gave a motivational drumming program with K.L. ("Killin' Lyrics" a.ka. Michael Monroe)

CAMP KILPATRICK
is a sports-based boot camp in Malibu with 120 teenage boys. They've all committed serious crimes.

Clay Ayers (writer, "The Watcher") taught a screenwriting and video workshop. The boys in his class each wrote a short, original script. Then they voted on which one they'd produce. They all participated in the acting and production of the video. Their scripts were all registered at the Writers Guild and each received a framed certificate, along with a copy of the video. He's now working one-on-one with one of his students.

Jonathan Feldman ("Swing Kids", "Power Broker" for Tom Hanks, a Warner Bros project and a sequel to "The Earth to the Moon" for HBO) taught a screenwriting workshop.

Ted Henning (several feature and TV scripts) taught a screenwriting workshop on alternate weeks.

A Talent Show was produced at both Camp Miller and Camp Kilpatrick, where 220 residents of both camps got to participate in a Poetry Contest, Rap Music Competition and an Art Contest. All the participants received prizes and the winners got trophies and cash. Everyone got to perform or appear on stage, along with rapper M.C. Blvd. Afterwards, Create Now! arranged for the poetry contestants to read their poems in public at Beyond Baroque in Venice. The art contest participants had a workshop with Gilbert Weems, a Disney animator. They also viewed a video of the Art Center College of Design and were given applications, with the promise of getting a scholarship to attend classes there. The rap music contestants all got to record their songs at the "A Place Called Home" recording studio.

CAMP ROCKEY
is a detention camp for 130 teenage boys in San Dimas.

Mark Schulman gave his motivational drumming program seminar.

Create Now! donated hundreds of music audiotapes and cassette players.

CAMP ROTH
is a detention camp in Tujunga for 100 young men, ages 18 to 24.

Mark Schulman gave his motivational drumming program seminar.

CAMP SCOTT
is a military-style boot camp in Saugus for 100 teenage girls.

Mary Holder (theatre student) worked with a group of girls who wrote, produced and starred in their own plays, which they performed for the other residents.

Lanette Ware (actress "Shaft," "Bad Company") taught a group of girls about personal motivation and acting.

Tracey Forbes (writer on "Buffy the Vampire Slayer"), and Jane Espenson (writer/co-producer on "Buffy the Vampire Slayer") taught a TV writing workshop.

Claire Foster (has written several epic features for British producers, including Mike Newell) worked with a large group of girls at the camp, developing a script.

Debra Wilson Skelton ("MAD-TV") gave two inspirational seminars to all the girls.

CAMP SCUDDER
is a detention camp in Saugus for 100 teenage boys.

Mary Holder worked with two groups of boys who wrote, produced and starred in their own plays, which they performed for the other residents.

Debra Wilson Skelton ("MAD-TV") gave two inspirational seminars to all the girls.

Mark Schulman gave his motivational drumming program seminar.

CENTRAL JUVENILE HALL
is a facility near downtown with more than 700 residents. All of the youth are waiting to be sentenced to detention facilities throughout Southern California. More than 300 inmates are boys who are high-risk offenders that will be placed in adult prisons.

Create Now! sponsored a screenwriting seminar with writers Duane Adler ("Save the Last Dance"), Chris Bertolet ("Murder Live"), and Stevie Long (completed a feature script for the Wayans Brothers).

David Johnson (wrote "Woo" starring Jada Pinkett-Smith and writer/director of "Riot" for Showtime) worked with a group of high-risk offenders to help them develop theatrical plays about their lives.

Ken Luber ("Hauser") taught a creative writing class for the high-risk offenders as part of their school curriculum. As a result of his workshop, three of the residents had their stories and poetry published in "Psyche and Eros", a newsletter written by teenagers for teens.

"Lorenzo" Larry Newton (actor on "Frasier" and "Diagnosis Murder") worked a group of high-risk offenders, to help them with the acting and directing of the plays. These plays were produced every couple of months and performed for all the residents and the staff of Central Juvenile Hall, as well as family members and friends of the youths who participate.

Lyle Slack ("The Sleepwalker Killer" for NBC) worked with Mario Rocha, a high-risk offender who is an incredibly talented writer. He has already written several wonderful plays and poems. Lyle also worked with Ruben, one of the gifted young actors in the theater group, to help him write a screenplay.

Julius Tennon (actor, "Lonesome Dove", "Dazed and Confused") taught a drama class which included "The Business of Acting." with 25 girls who are high-risk offenders.

Clayvon Harris (staff writer, "Living Single") taught the girls about the creation of a popular TV sitcom. Clayvon inspired them all to continue their education. She also sent them autographed photos of Queen Latifah, which remain prized souvenirs.

Debra Wilson Skelton ("MAD-TV") gave an inspirational seminar to a group of 50 teenage girls.

Mark Schulman presented his motivational drumming program to more than 200 of the residents. His protégé K.L. ("Killin' Lyrics," aka Michael Monroe) along with Create Now! student Jamall Harris, performed rap songs for all the youth. The highlight of the program was when residents were invited up to the stage with K.L. and Jamall so they could "freestyle" their own rap songs.

CHILDREN OF THE NIGHT
is a shelter in Van Nuys for teenage prostitutes.

Elyse Friedman taught a creative writing workshop.

Celia Pool (actress) taught an acting workshop, which focused on auditioning techniques, avoiding scams, etc.

Debra Wilson Skelton ("MAD-TV") taught an improvisational and motivational workshop. She also taught a jewelry workshop just before Christmas so that the kids were able to make jewelry for themselves and as gifts.

Create Now! donated software and has arranged for groups of kids to attend performances at the Geffen Playhouse.

CHILDREN'S INSTITUTE INTERNATIONAL
is a non-profit organization located near downtown Los Angeles that specializes in the treatment and prevention of child abuse and neglect. They serve hundreds of at-risk children.

Create Now! sponsored a Christmas art contest for a number of kids.

Create Now! donated 150 tickets to Cirque du Soleil to some of the children and families they serve. We also contributed books, CDs, software and magazines.

COVENANT HOUSE
provides shelter and service to thousands of homeless and runaway youth.

Create Now! arranged for two of the homeless youths at this facility to further their dreams. Louis Perez was able to take an intensive "Director's Weekend" course through the generosity of Filmmakers' Central. Jamall Harris was invited by Mark Schulman and K.L. to record his music at Mark's studio.

We also donated a number of tickets for the kids to attend Cirque du Soleil.

CRITTENTON SERVICES
has group homes throughout Orange County for children and teens who have been abused, neglected and abandoned.

Create Now! donated 200 tickets to Cirque du Soleil's "Varekai."

DANGERFIELD GROUP HOME
is a home in South Central for teenage girls who have been abused, neglected and abandoned

Create Now! donated tickets to Cirque du Soleil's "Varekai."

DOROTHY KIRBY CENTER
is a detention facility in Commerce for 100 teenage boys and girls who have mental and psychological disorders and they have also committed crimes.

Mark Schulman gave his motivational drumming program to all the residents.

DUBNOFF CENTER
is a facility in North Hollywood for children who are emotionally-disturbed due to abuse and neglect

Create Now! donated tickets to Cirque du Soleil's "Varekai."

EAGLE ROCK GROUP HOME
houses six teenage girls who have been abused and abandoned and/or have committed crimes.

Andrea Abbate (writer/producer of "Rude Awakening") taught a creative writing workshop.

Lisa Cabrero (hair stylist) and Maria Del Prete (make-up artist) from "Rude Awakening" taught a make-up and hair workshop.

Create Now! donated tickets to Cirque du Soleil's "Varekai."

EMANCIPATED YOUTHS are teens who have previously lived in residential institutions, but graduate and either return home, to foster families or are released to the streets. It's very difficult to track the graduates of our programs, due to confidentiality issues and "cracks" in the system. However, Create Now! still helps those students who keep in touch with us. Here are just some of these youths.

Janice Friedman (spec script for Warner Brothers) has been a one-on-one mentor, helping Chennel with her poetry and developing her literary skills.

Darontay met Create Now! founder Jill Gurr while incarcerated at Camp Kilpatrick, and she became his one-on-one mentor for five years.

Earl graduated from our music program at Camp Miller. He worked with Harold Moret, Jr. on the CD "Camp Miller: The Album" and is now interested in writing his autobiography. Create Now! has given Earl a computer system with software and books so he can fulfill his dream.

Tasha, an incredibly bright and talented girl, has graduated from USC Film School. Her mentors in Create Now! helped Tasha to apply and she received a scholarship from Warner Brothers Studios. Tasha is now teaching video production to at-risk middle-school children while she works toward her dream of becoming a director.

Lizeth graduated from our acting workshop at Mid-Valley Youth Center. She's now married and has a baby, and is pursuing an acting career.

Michael won first prize in our Talent Show at Camp Miller. He participated in the CD "Camp Miller: The Album" with Floss P. Now he's being developed as a hip-hop artist by Create Now! Board member, drummer Mark Schulman.

Alden attended our screenwriting seminar at Camp Miller. He loved writing so much that he's now working on his own script. Create Now! gave him software and books to help with his endeavors.

Shanell (see Success Stories) is now writing her autobiography. She supports herself by working as a server in a restaurant. Create Now! has given her a tape recorder, transcribing equipment and a computer system to help her. In addition, we've given her educational software for her 7 year-old daughter Shauntenay.

Marcus participated in Create Now! before we were officially a nonprofit organization. He'd been abused by his father and then went to live with family friends when he was eleven years-old. They also abused him. He was found by Children's Services living in MacArthur Park. Marcus was placed at Optimist Boys Home, where he met Create Now! Founder Jill Gurr. His passion was "The Power Rangers," a popular TV show. Jill brought him to visit the set of "The Power Rangers," where he got to meet the stars, try on their costumes and watch the show being taped. He realized that dreams can come true and set about to make his wishes a reality. Now Marcus is an incredible artist and videographer. He strives to help disadvantaged youth to reach their goals.

Tawana was one of the first students to participate in Create Now! She left home and was in trouble because she couldn't get along with her family. Tawana now works at a group home for mentally retarded adults. In her spare time, she's completed three feature-length screenplays and is developing her fourth. Create Now! has given her a computer system, software and books to help her develop her work. In addition, Nikki Ann Schmutz has helped Tawana with her screenwriting.

Stuart Sender (Academy Award Nominated Producer/Writer) and Thomas Lewis (Computer Technician) worked with Jerone, who finished a three year sentence at Centinela State Prison. Jerone was accepted at Southwestern College to study Computer Sciences. He was offered a part-time job at the college as a "Peer Counselor."

ERIKSON CENTER
is a facility in Van Nuys for 60 teenage boys who have been abused, neglected and abandoned. Some of them are also on probation for delinquency.

Create Now! donated tickets to Cirque du Soleil's "Varekai."

FIVE ACRES
is a facility in Altadena for emotionally-disturbed, abused, neglected and abandoned children. There are 85-100 boys and girls, ages 6-13.

Arlene Eisenberg (published author) taught a Write Now! workshop in creative writing to a group of young boys. She did a second workshop with six teenage girls who live in a group home that's part of the facility. She was so popular that the staff at the facility begged Arlene to teach again. She's now working with another group of teenage girls.

Beth Sussman (classical pianist), gave an interactive seminar on classical music to all the elementary and middle-school children. The children loved the program.

FLORENCE-CRITTENDEN CENTER
is a facility in East Los Angeles for 50 teenage girls who have been abused, neglected or abandoned. Most of them are pregnant or are unwed mothers.

Linda Marr (writer"Billy" and "The Mommies") taught a Write Now! workshop for two years.

Debra Wilson Skelton ("MAD-TV") gave improvisational workshops for girls.

Ingrid Shoemaker (photography) taught photography to a group of girls.

Create Now! donated tickets to Cirque du Soleil's "Varekai."

GARDNER HOUSE
in Hollywood is a group home, where six teenage boys who have mental, behavioral or psychological disorders live with adult guardians.

Andrew Borakove ("South Park," "Dilbert") worked with the boys on developing a Japanese anime show. They spent much of their time viewing and critiquing popular films.

Bobby Brown ("Family Guy") took over the workshop from Andrew and worked with the boys for over a year.

Joe Petricca ("Miami Prosperity,") taught a video production workshop for several years. He helped the boys to write, videotape and edit their many projects.

David Harris (screenwriting program, AFI) took over the video production workshop.

Joshua Andrews (musician) taught a group Sound Off! class in guitar.

Create Now! donated software and a computer. We arranged for the boys to see "Ennio" at the Geffen Playhouse, Cirque du Soleil and "Taking Flight,” an acclaimed one-woman show by Adriana Sevan.

GIRLS & BOYS TOWN
is a shelter in Santa Ana for teens who are taken from their homes due to abuse and neglect.

Create Now! donated a number of tickets for the kids to attend Cirque du Soleil's "Varekai."

G.L.A.S.S.
is a facility for 36 teenage boys and girls who live in five group homes in Hollywood, due to physical, sexual and emotional abuse and neglect. All of the youths are gays, lesbians and trans-genders.

Jamie Bolduc (actress "Little Shop of Horrors", songwriter/singer) taught a music workshop.

Tamar Brott (screenwriter/artist) taught a Take heART! Workshop.

David Le Barron (Acting Coach, director of Off-Broadway theater and international musicals) taught a very popular acting workshop.

Joe Petricca (adapted "Miami Prosperity,") taught a Write Now! screenwriting workshop.

All the mentors teamed up to help the residents at G.L.A.S.S. to write, produce and star in their own video production.

HATHAWAY CHILDREN'S SERVICES
is an institution in Sylmar for 120 children, 6 to 18 years old. Most have been abused. All are emotionally disturbed.

Shelly Brown (dancer, teacher) taught dancing to a group of young girls.

Beth Sussman (classical pianist) did a Sound Off! program; an interactive seminar on classical music to all the elementary and middle-school children.

Create Now! arranged for a number of the children to attend a performance of "Pearl" at the Geffen Playhouse and Cirque du Soleil.

HILLSIDES
is an institution in Pasadena for 70 children, 9 to 18 years old. Most have been abused or neglected. All of them are emotionally disturbed.

Create Now! donated tickets to Cirque du Soleil's "Varekai."

HOLLYGROVE
is home for 85 boys and girls in Hollywood, ages 6 to 12, who have been abused, neglected, orphaned or abandoned.

Children from Hollygrove attend a Storytelling Workshop

Laura Doyle ("Early Edition") co-created a short video called "Princess Bella Loves Turtles" with five of the children.

Jill Gurr (Founder & President of Create Now!) helped 15 children to write and star in their own video called "Nerds to the Rescue."

Julie Stark gave an interactive storytelling workshop with a group of children who got to dress up and act out the story with props. Thanks to Borders Books for giving us the space to hold the workshop.

Aurora Filipescu is a one-on-one mentor to a 10-year-old girl at the facility.

Beth Sussman (classical pianist), gave a Sound Off! program; an interactive seminar on classical music to all the elementary and middle-school children. It was so popular with the kids that they asked her back again.

Create Now! donated toys, materials for art projects and computer software for the children.

THE INSTITUTE FOR BLACK PARENTING
in Inglewood serves hundreds of children in the foster care system.

Sharon Johnson (writer) taught a Write Now! creative writing workshop to a group of children.

Create Now! arranged for a group of the youths to attend a special event celebrating Martin Luther King, Jr. at the House of Blues.

JENESEE CENTER
in South Central is an emergency shelter for women and children experiencing domestic violence.

Create Now! donated 12 computers plus additional equipment, software, books, and household items. We also gave them tickets to "I Just Stopped By to See the Man" at the Geffen Playhouse.

KENMORE GROUP HOME
is a group home in Hollywood with six teenage girls who have been abused, orphaned, neglected or abandoned. They live there with adult guardians.

Heidi Atherton ("Weird Al" show) worked as a one-on-one mentor with a teenage girl who is an orphan, ongoing for four years. The young woman is now happily married and stabilized.

KENISTON HOUSE
is a group home in Hollywood for six teenage girls who have mental, behavioral or psychological disorders.

Andrea Abbate (comedian, writer/producer of "Rude Awakening") taught a Write Now! creative writing workshop. She frequently took "her girls" on outings to the theater and other fun events.

Mary Fitzgerald (professor, NYU, screenwriter) taught the girls a Write Now! creative writing workshop.

Luke Ryan (story editor, New Line Cinema) conducted a Write now! screenwriting workshop.

Jill Gurr (Create Now! Founder) took over the Write Now! screenwriting course and directed five of the girls in a short video that they created called "Friends." Denis Lenoir ("Carrington," "Monsieur Hire") was the cinematographer. Suzan Van Velzer helped with sound and Georg Frick ("Hollywood Vampyr") helped out, as well. Kira Burt, an editor at Intralink, cut the film and many of the staff at that company helped to polish it. Each girl received a DVD and video version of the final film. Not only did they share it with their family and friends, but their whole school got to view their video!

Lisa Tomczeszyn (costume designer, "Daredevil," "Elektra") taught all the girls about costume design.

Jamie Weiss (make-up artist, jewelry designer) taught a fine silver jewelry workshop.

Create Now! arranged for the girls to attend performances of "Do Jump" and "Pearl" at the Geffen Playhouse and also Cirque du Soleil. We also donated software.

L.A. FAMILY HOUSING
is a shelter for homeless families in North Hollywood. They serve around 120 homeless children.

Charlie Padow (cartoonist) taught a cartooning workshop to a large group of kids.

Create Now! donated tickets to "I Just Stopped By to See the Man" at the Geffen Playhouse and to Cirque du Soleil's "Corteo"

L.A. UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT
has 25 satellite schools all over Los Angeles, held in churches, store fronts and community rooms to teach high-risk youths who are given this last chance to complete their high school education.

Jennifer Marquis (writer, projects in development at Paramount and Lifetime) is teaching a screenwriting workshop to a group of teenagers.

Celia Pool (actor) taught an acting workshop in Culver City.

Mark Schulman (drummer, Cher's "Farewell" tour) provided his motivational drumming program to the students in South Central, as well as the San Pedro Extended Learning Center.

L.A. YOUTH NETWORK
is a shelter for runaway teens in Hollywood.

Cathy Kay (actor) taught an acting workshop to a group of the teenage boys and girls who live there.

Ken McCoy (photographer) taught a photography workshop for all the youths.

Tracey Finlay (producer "Survivor," "The Bachelor") gave an inspirational seminar on her troubled teenage life to a group of kids.

James DeLaVega (artist) shared his unique drawings and t-shirts with the kids and had them draw, as well.

Create Now! arranged for a group of the youth to attend a special event celebrating Martin Luther King, Jr. at the House of Blues. We also donated computer software, CDs and books.

LINDEN CENTER
is a school for 100 children ages 6 to 18 who have emotional, behavioral and psychological disorders.

Nathan Franson (special effects make-up "Van Helsing," "The Passion of the Christ") gave a demonstration of his art for 30 of the kids.

LONG BEACH YOUTH CENTER
is a residential facility in Long Beach for 40 teenage boys who have been abused, neglected and/or have committed crimes.

Ezequiel Davis (musician) taught a popular Sound Off! drumming workshop.

MASADA HOMES
are group homes for 30 teenage boys who are foster children and/or are in trouble with the law.

Create Now! donated five computer systems, along with software.

MARYVALE
in Rosemead is an orphanage and an institution for 100 teenage girls who have been abused, neglected and abandoned.

Francisca Fuenzalida taught a Write Now! screenwriting workshop to a group of girls. .

Beth Sussman, classical pianist, gave an interactive Sound Off! seminar on classical music.

Create Now! donated a number of tickets for the girls to attend "Merton of the Movies" at the Geffen Playhouse and Cirque du Soleil's "Varekai."

McLAREN HOUSE
is an institution in El Monte with over 120 boys and girls aged 5 to 18 who have been severely abused, neglected and/or abandoned.

Three improvisational comedy workshops were given to 75 of the older kids by Robin Schiff ("Romy and Michelle's High School Reunion") and Michael Hitchcock ("The Groundlings"). By participating in comedy skits, the teens gained confidence and bonded with their staff and each other as they found humor in their lives.

MICHELLE TRAVIS GROUP HOME is a foster group home for boys

MID-VALLEY YOUTH CENTER
is a facility in Van Nuys with 85-100 teenage boys and girls who had emotional and behavioral problems. They had all committed various crimes and were involved with the juvenile justice system. The facility now only serves teenage boys who are sex offenders.

Introductory presentation given at Mid-Valley Youth Center


Steven and Eddie, standing in front of a TV camera


David Koepp teaches a Screenwriting Workshop

Hal Ackerman (Professor, UCLA Graduate Film School, playwright and novelist) taught a Write Now! creative writing workshop.

Duane Adler ("Save the Last Dance") worked as a one-on-one mentor with a teenage boy.

Timothy Burns (numerous TV and feature credits, as well as novels and plays) taught a screenwriting workshop to a group of boys.

Hillary Carlip (author,"Girl Power") worked with two girls at the facility to help them with the development of their screenplays. The girls have returned to their homes and now have the tools and knowledge to continue working on their own. One of these girls, Amanda, was still in touch with Hillary and with Create Now! three years after her program ended.

April Claytor (adapted a novel for HBO, scriptwriter) worked one-on-one mentor with a girl, helping her to write a script. The girl was unable to read and write at first, but has now developed literacy.

Bobbie Jo Dombey (website designer, ABC-TV) created a newsletter for the facility with a large group of teens.

Paul Jackson (headwriter on "Charmed") worked with two teenage boys on their sci-fi screenplays.

David Koepp ("Jurassic Park," "Mission Impossible," "Spiderman," "War of the Worlds" and writer/director "Secret Window") gave a Write Now! screenwriting workshop to all youth at the institution as part of their school curriculum. This lively program was very exciting for the children as they shared their creative ideas about what would make a good movie.

Attica Locke (Sundance participant, optioned script to USA Films) taught a Write Now! screenwriting workshop.

Michael Lucker ("A Vampyre in Brooklyn" and "Spirit of the West") worked with one youth on his vampire story.

Lisa Rosenthal ("Fresh Prince," "Martin," "Steve Harvey," "Married With Children," "Head of the Class") taught two Write now! sit-com writing workshops. The classes developed spec scripts for "The Jamie Foxx Show" and "That 70's Show."

Paul Manning (writer "E.R.," "L.A. Law") was suffering from colorectal cancer. He wanted to volunteer so that he could leave his mark. Create Now! was able to set Paul up to teach TV writing to a group of teenage sex offenders, as part of their school curriculum. In the short amount of time that he worked with the boys, Paul moved them deeply and inspired them to write their own stories. Before he passed away, Paul received a beautiful thank you card from all the boys, testifying to the lives that he had touched.

OLIVE CREST
has a number of group homes throughout Southern California for children who have been abused, neglected and abandoned

Create Now! donated tickets to Cirque du Soleil's "Varekai."

Jessie O'Neill presented an Acting Workshop.

OPTIMIST YOUTH HOME
is an institution in Eagle Rock with around 100 teenage boys who have committed crimes and are involved in the juvenile justice system.

M.C. Blvd.

Danny Haro ("American Me") gave an Acting Workshop that was very popular. He also participated in a read-through of the script completed in the screenwriting workshop and helped the boys to perform several scenes from it. He influenced Ernesto, the leader of a Chicano gang, to have tattoos removed from his neck and hand.

M.C. Blvd. is a popular Chicano rap singer with three, best-selling CDs/tapes out on the market. His tours sell-out wherever he goes. M.C. Blvd. gave several positive rap concerts for the residents at Optimist. He invited other ex-gangbangers to join him and they shared their experiences of how their lives are fulfilled now that crime is in the past. M.C. Blvd. also invited a 9 year-old girl, Sochie, who has been crippled since infancy due to a drive-by bullet. He sang his popular song "Little Sochie" to her and the residents were very moved. Each boy at Optimist received an autographed polaroid picture with M.C. Blvd. and Little Sochie.

Quinton Peebles (writer/director of "Joy Ride") was a one-on-one mentor with "Gilberto," who loved writing poetry and has now learned about screenwriting. They continued to meet for over three years. Quentin helped Gabe to get a job at a video store and also to find a job as an apprentice at a prominent film company.

Tracy Vilar (actress "The Steve Harvey Show") taught a Comedy Acting Workshop. She took the kids on a field trip to visit "The Steve Harvey Show," and arranged for the boys to have their pictures taken with Steve Harvey. She introduced them to the casting director, who took their photos and said she'd try to hire them as extras. Tracy helped them write, produce and star in short plays that they performed for the public.

Tyger Williams (writer, "Menace II Society") gave a Write Now! screenwriting workshop that encouraged many of the youths to continue their education. He especially bonded with Lamar, who decided to pursue a career in writing after meeting him. Tyger also participated in a read-through of the script and attended a performance of several scenes that the boys acted out.

Debra Wilson Skelton ("MAD-TV") gave several inspirational seminars to all the residents. All of the kids also received an autographed Polaroid photograph with Debra, so they have a lasting souvenir of their experience.

ORANGE COUNTY YOUTH CENTER
is a group home in Anaheim for teens taken from their families due to abuse and neglect.

Create Now! donated a number of tickets for the youth to attend Cirque du Soleil.

PATTERNS
is a shelter in Hawthorne for children ages 0 to 12 whose mothers are in rehabilitation for substance abuse.

Heidi Jo Corey (actor) gave a Storytelling Workshop to 12 children, ages 2-10 years old.

Create Now! donated four computers, including a Macintosh, loaded with educational games and software. We also contributed toys for Christmas.

Create Now! arranged for some of these kids to attend a summer camp in Malibu through the nonprofit organization "The Children's Lifesaving Foundation." We also invited the children to have fun at a Christmas party in Anaheim, where food and gifts were distributed. In addition Create Now! donated tickets to Cirque du Soleil.

PACIFIC LODGE BOYS HOME
is a detention center in Woodland Hills for 80 teenage boys who have committed crimes.

Sy Rosen (writer, "Frasier," "Taxi") taught a Write Now! sit-com writing workshop.

Sara Saukas (producer, "NBC News," producer on "E! Entertainment") created several newsletters with all the residents at the facility.

PENNY LANE
is a home for 50 teenage girls who have suffered from abuse, neglect and abandonment.

Create Now! arranged for some of the girls who are interested in dance to attend a performance of "Pearl" at the Geffen Playhouse. We also donated many tickets to Cirque du Soleil.

PHOENIX ACADEMY
is a special co-ed public school in Pacoima for students with substance-abuse problems.

Clay Ayers (writer, "The Watcher") taught a workshop in "How to Teach Creative Arts to At-Risk Youth," to all of the faculty at the school. He was so popular with the staff that they begged him to come back and teach again.

PHOENIX HOUSE is a drug rehab facility in Lake View Terrace for over 100 teenagers.

Debra Wilson ("MAD-TV") gave several inspirational, life-changing seminars to all the kids.

Mark Schulman provided his Sound Off! motivational drumming program to the youth.

Create Now! donated computer software. We also arranged for a group of the kids to see "You Can't Take It With You" at the Geffen Theater.

A PLACE CALLED HOME
is a recreational center in South Central for hundreds of at-risk kids ages 9 to 17.

James DeLaVega (artist) shared his unique drawings and t-shirts with around 60 of the kids and had them draw, as well.

Create Now! donated software to the facility.

PRICE FAMILY CAMPUS
is part of Father Flanagan's Boys' Town. This particular facility serves 12 boys, ages 11-17, who have been abused and neglected. Some of them are also on probation.

Create Now! arranged for the boys to attend a performance of "Felix and Oscar: The New Odd Couple" at the Geffen Playhouse. Create Now! also donated many tickets to Cirque du Soleil.

PRIDE HOUSE
was a residential institution in Van Nuys for 80 teenage boys and girls who had committed crimes.

Lisa O'Brien works with
Wakeesha on her script

Marcia Leslie ("Cosby," "Gimme a Break") worked with a teenage girl, Tawana, to help her develop her feature script further and to realize that she was able to create funny characters and situations from her real life.

Lisa O'Brien ("Anti-Gravity Room" for the Sci-Fi Channel, "Mega Movie Magic" for the Discovery Channel) helped a teenage girl, Wakeesha, develop an autobiographical feature script.

RANCHO ST. ANTONIO
is a detention camp in Chatsworth with 112 teenage boys.

Create Now! donated computer equipment and software that will be used by youths in a number of different detention camps.

REACH OUT WEST END
is a nonprofit organization in San Bernardino that teaches substance-abuse prevention to at-risk middle-school children.

Jill Gurr (Create Now! Founder) directed a group of kids and their mentors in a promotional video for Reach Out West End about "Mentoring."

Create Now! also donated loads of tickets for the children to attend Cirque du Soleil's "Varekai".

RICHSTONE CENTER
is an after-school program and family treatment center for child abuse located in Hawthorne, for children ages 6 to 18.

Jennifer Marquis taught a Write Now! screenwriting workshop to a group of teenagers.

Sue Ann Pien (UCLA graduate) taught a Write Now! literacy program to a group of children.

Duane Adler (writer "Step Up,""Save the Last Dance") taught a Write Now! Screenwriting workshop.

ROSEMARY'S CHILDREN'S CENTER
is a facility in Pasadena for 40 teenage girls who have been abused, neglected and abandoned.

Toni Perling (writer "Dr. Quinn," and TV movies) taught TV writing to two girls. One of them is now attending college. Create Now! gave both girls computer systems.

Lanette Ware (actress "Shaft," "Bad Company") taught a group of girls about personal motivation and acting.

We also arranged for a number of girls to see "Merton of the Movies" at the Geffen Playhouse and also donated tickets to Cirque du Soleil's "Varekai".

SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA INDIAN CENTER
is a recreational center for Native American children.

Create Now! donated tickets to Cirque du Soleil's "Varekai".

THE SYCAMORES
is an institution in Altadena for 100 boys ages 6 to 18 who have all been physically, mentally and sexually abused.

Sandra Alvarado (Golden Mike Award winner, TV News Director) and Sonia Alvarado (Two-time Emmy-award winner, Producer of KTLA's "Making It!") taught a group of boys how to produce, direct and host their own TV interview show. The kids interviewed a camera operator, an animation director and swing dancers while learning how to operate the camera and other equipment. One of the graduates from this program is now going to college!

Create Now! arranged for many of the boys at this facility to attend performances of "Magicopolis" and "Paint Your Wagon" at the Geffen Playhouse. They also went to a special event celebrating Martin Luther King, Jr. at the House of Blues. In addition, Create Now! gave them tickets to Cirque du Soleil.

SYLMAR JUVENILE HALL
in Sylmar is a detention center for 550 teenage boys and 120 girls

Sonee Thompson (Sundance and Disney Fellowship finalist) taught a Write Now! screenwriting workshop to a group of boys. She brought several of her film industry friends as guest speakers.

Mary Holder (theatre student) worked with a group of girls who wrote, produced and starred in their own plays, which they performed for the other residents.

TAFT HOUSE
is a group home in Hollywood for runaway teens.

Create Now! arranged for Ashley, one of their temporary residents, to attend an intensive weekend seminar on Film Production at Filmmakers' Central.

Create Now! donated a VCR and computer games and software.

TEEN CANTEEN
is a drop-in shelter in Hollywood for runaways, ages 18 to 24.

Lisa Haisha (writer/director "Psycho Sushi") is teaching a creative writing workshop to a group of youths.

VENTURA YOUTH AUTHORITY
is a prison for 100 teenage girls who have committed serious crimes, such as murder.

Debra Wilson ("MAD-TV") gave an inspirational, life-changing seminar to all the girls.

VISTA DEL MAR
is an institution in Culver City with 90 boys and girls who have severe emotional and behavioral problems.

Brian Hecker (feature script with Universal/Bubble Factory) taught a Write Now! creative writing workshop to a group of residents.

Silvana Smud (actress) is a one-on-one mentor to a young girl there.

Hilary Sloane is teaching a Take heART! workshop to a group of young women for three years. One girl was chosen from retailer Freddie and Ma as the winner of a design contest for her purse design.

Create Now! arranged for a group of girls to attend "Pearl" at the Geffen Playhouse and also gave tickets to Cirque du Soleil's "Varekai."

WESTSIDE CHILDREN'S CENTER
is a child-care center in Mar Vista for low-income and impoverished families.

Kyrra Richards (dancer) taught ballet to a group of 12 preschoolers, ages 3-5 years old.

WOMEN'S CARE COTTAGE
is a homeless shelter in North Hollywood for women and children.

Create Now! donated tickets to Cirque du Soleil's "Varekai."

ORLANDO, FLORIDA
has a large film community with a lot of talented screenwriters. Many needy children live there who have been abused, abandoned and/or have committed crimes.

Create Now! organized several programs in Orlando, Florida during 1996-2000. While our focus is now on the Southern California region, these programs have a lasting effect on the youths who participated.

CENTER FOR DRUG-FREE LIVING
is a detention center for about 80 teenage boys who have substance-abuse problems and are convicted felons.

Adam Berger (writer/developer of theme park attractions) taught a very successful creative writing workshop for three years. Several of the youths from his program have received accolades for their creative writing, developed through the program. Some of the work appears on our website (see Writing Samples), as well as at Between the Lines for talented writers. Visit Adam's website at FLOSSIN. Adam is now compiling an anthology of his students material for publication.

GREAT OAKS VILLAGE
is an institution for boys and girls aged 5 to 18 who have been abused, abandoned, neglected or orphaned.

Mary Johnson (screenwriting professor at Central Florida University, taught "The Blair Witch Project" filmmakers amongst many others, and one of her scripts is about to be produced) worked with David Brown (part of the team who made "The Blair Witch Project"). They taught a group of teenage girls about the film industry and helped them learn the basics about screenwriting.

ADOLESCENT RESIDENTIAL CAMPUS
is another program that's part of the Center for Drug-Free Living facilities.

Eduardo Sanchez (co-director "The Blair Witch Project") and Gregg Hale (co-producer "The Blair Witch Project") gave a seminar to a group of 52 teenage boys who live there. The filmmakers plan to go back to the facility to work with some of the other male residents, as well as a group of teenage girls.