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An Arts-focused internship program for formerly incarcerated individuals

Designing Creative Futures

“All this time I’ve had all this passion, but I didn’t know how or where to start. This program has really helped me pursue my dream.” - Felicita, Designing Creative Futures Participant, San Diego

About Designing Creative Futures

Designing Creative Futures is a paid job training internship program for formerly incarcerated individuals who wish to pursue careers in the arts.

This four month program offers the unique opportunity for returning residents to work closely with arts organizations through paid, part-time internships. Participants will learn a variety of skills associated with careers in the arts and gain mentorship from people who are leaders in their respective fields.

Participants are placed with collaborating organizations based on the participants’ interests and the organizations’ needs. Throughout the internship period, participants will receive consultations with an education and career counselor as well as social services support. Additionally, participants will have access to monthly job readiness, personal and professional development, communication and conflict resolution training provided by California Lawyers for the Arts.

 

Los Angeles:

  • DCF provides internships twice a year starting in February and August.
  • Applications are accepted on a rolling ongoing basis and will be reviewed in January and July.
  • Printable applications can be returned via email to: DCF@calawyersforthearts.org
     

Interns Receive

  • $20/ hour for 20 hrs / week
  • Monthly transportation stipends and personal technology reimbursements
  • Guidance, mentoring, and continued on-the-job training from experienced artists and arts administrators
  • Consultations with an education and career counselor

 

Basic Eligibility

  • Ages 18+ 

  • Reside in or near the Counties of San Diego, Los Angeles or the Bay Area (based on specified program region)

  • Formerly incarcerated, released within the past seven years

  • Interest in the arts* 

  • Ability to commit to four month internship period

  • Documented proof of COVID-19 vaccination

* Participation in Arts in Corrections program preferred 

 

Questions?

Please contact:

DCF Los Angeles: Toyin Moses, Program Manager, toyin.moses@calawyersforthearts.org

 

Alma Robinson, CLA’s Executive Director, presented a report about this unique program to the California Rehabilitation Oversight Board (C-ROB).  

Program Documentation

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California Lawyers for the Arts is a tax exempt 501(c)(3) nonprofit and your donation is tax deductible as a charitable contribution to the fullest extent of the law.  State Bar LRS Certificate #0021 

MCLE Provider # 1248. 

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Copyright © 2026. California Lawyers for the Arts. All Rights Reserved.