Screenwriting Mentorship Program Empowers the Next Generation of Storytellers
The Dr. Barbara Seniors Harkins Foundation has officially wrapped up another inspiring season of its signature Screenwriting Mentorship Program. Designed as an intensive, hands-on creative incubator, the program successfully provided local youth with a rare opportunity to step inside the world of film and television, honing their crafts and developing crucial visual storytelling skills under the direct guidance of seasoned industry professionals.
Throughout the duration of the program, selected students gathered twice a month for interactive, deep-dive workshops. These sessions bridged the gap between raw passion and professional execution, offering aspiring young writers the technical tools, structural insights, and industry frameworks needed to bring their unique visions to the page.
More than just a series of writing lessons, the program served as a vital bridge to the entertainment industry, opening crucial first doors for young creatives who are often underrepresented in mainstream media spaces. By learning face-to-face from active industry professionals, participants received invaluable feedback on their scripts, gained real-world insights into the business of filmmaking, and built a foundation of confidence to carry into their future careers.
As this session comes to a close, the Dr. BSH Foundation extends its deepest gratitude to the dedicated mentors who volunteered their time and expertise, as well as the incredibly talented students who poured their hearts into their screenplays. While this cohort has concluded, the foundation remains fiercely committed to nurturing diverse voices and looks forward to opening doors for the next wave of young storytellers in the upcoming school year.
Honoring the Past, Inspiring the Future: A Weekend of Remembrance and Basketball
There is something incredibly powerful about what happens when a community gathers with a shared purpose. On June 27th, the courts and parks came alive for our 4th Annual Legacy Appreciation Picnic & Basketball Game. It was a day defined not just by the heat of summer, but by the warmth of community building, pure joy, and some seriously friendly competition.
From the very first whistle to the final buzzer, the energy was electric. Local youth took to the court, showcasing incredible teamwork, grit, and sportsmanship. Whether it was players driving hard to the basket or the crowd cheering wildly from the sidelines, the basketball game reminded everyone of the unique way sports can break down barriers and unite us.
Beyond the court, the park was filled with families, mentors, and neighbors catching up over food, sharing laughs, and enjoying the sunshine. But beneath the celebration was a deeper heartbeat: a commitment to keeping a meaningful legacy alive. These gatherings are a living testament to the idea that we honor those we’ve lost by investing deeply in the generation right in front of us.
“Seeing our youth lift each other up on the court and watching families connect in the park is exactly how we keep Josh’s legacy alive, show support of students, and appreciation of our volunteers. It’s about turning remembrance into active community power,” said Elisia Harkins-James
As the sun began to set on another successful year, the takeaway was clear: tradition and community don’t just happen by accident—they are built by hand, heart, and hoops. Thank you to every player, volunteer, and attendee who showed up to make this weekend unforgettable. We are already looking forward to next year!
Summer Movie Night: Connect with Us for a Special Screening of ‘Elio’
As the summer heat rolls in, we are shifting our focus entirely to what’s coming up next on our horizon. We want to gather our incredible community together for an exciting, accessible online experience that you can enjoy right from the comfort of your living room. Grab your popcorn, because our next virtual film event is just around the corner!
On Saturday, July 18, the Dr. Barbara Seniors Harkins Foundation is hosting a special, Free Online Watch Party for Disney and Pixar’s Elio!
This isn’t a passive streaming night—it’s a live, interactive hangout designed to bring filmmakers, youth, and families together. While we watch the movie, we’ll be dropping fun, behind-the-scenes animation trivia directly into the chat, followed by a Live Pixar Trivia Challenge immediately after the credits roll.
Plus, if you log into the Zoom room at 12:00 PM sharp, you’ll be entered into our Early Bird Door Prize drawing for a chance to win a $10 gift card! It’s 100% free and the perfect weekend activity for siblings and families to enjoy on one screen.
Spaces are limited, so secure your virtual seat today!
Foundation: Save The Date Events:
Online Film Screening: Elio, July 18, 2026
Online Film Workshop, October 2026
Compton College Voice-Over Workshop: October 2026
Support Us
The foundation accepts donations throughout the year for all of its programs. If you would like to donate to the foundation, please visit our website at https://barbaraseniorsharkinsfoundation.org and click “Support Us” in the top right corner.
