The Avalon Park Arts & Culture Center and L.O.V.E. Our Youth are proud to announce a new partnership that will bring expanded opportunities for creativity, connection, and youth engagement to the heart of Downtown Avalon Park. As part of this collaboration, L.O.V.E. Our Youth, a local nonprofit dedicated to empowering and inspiring young people, has officially moved into the Arts & Culture Center at 13013 Founder’s Square Drive.
By sharing this space, L.O.V.E. Our Youth will be able to host and grow its youth-focused programming while connecting teens with the vibrant network of artists, exhibitions, and cultural experiences already thriving at the Center. The partnership opens the door to new possibilities for collaboration, expands the reach of both organizations, and strengthens the Center’s mission to celebrate creativity and community for all ages.
“This partnership allows us to expand our impact and better serve the young people in our community,” said Stephanie Lerret, Senior Vice President of Marketing and Community Relations for Avalon Park Group and spokesperson for the Avalon Park Arts & Culture Center. “Our goal has always been to make art and culture accessible to everyone. By working with L.O.V.E. Our Youth, we are not only enhancing the creative experiences we offer but also creating meaningful opportunities for teens to connect, grow, and find a sense of belonging right here in Avalon Park.”
One of the first exciting outcomes of this partnership is the launch of the new Teen Lounge, an exclusive hangout space designed for teens ages 13–18. Powered and programmed entirely by L.O.V.E. Our Youth, the Teen Lounge features a game room, creative and fun classes, a homework zone, and regular social activities with prizes and giveaways. Teens will also have the opportunity to connect with mentors, build friendships, and explore their creativity in a supportive environment.
The Teen Lounge is now open every Wednesday from 2:00–7:00 p.m. and every Friday from 3:00–9:00 p.m. and will follow the OCPS school calendar. Teens and families are also invited to celebrate the official launch at a Ribbon Cutting Celebration on Wednesday, October 15, 2025, from 5:00–7:00 p.m. at 13013 Founder’s Square Dr., Orlando, FL 32828. The event will offer a first look at the new space and the programs planned for the coming months.
“We are thrilled to partner with the Avalon Park Arts & Culture Center to expand our reach and offer new opportunities for the youth of this community,” said Lasheena Williams, Founder and Executive Director of L.O.V.E. Our Youth. “Our mission has always been to empower young people through education, mentorship, and community engagement. This new space allows us to do all of that and more — in an environment that celebrates creativity and builds a strong sense of connection.”
While this partnership brings exciting new programming for teens, the Avalon Park Arts & Culture Center will continue to host its own rotating art exhibitions, workshops, and community events. Updated gallery hours are now Tuesdays and Thursdays from 4:00–6:00 p.m. and Saturdays from 10:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m. Visitors are encouraged to stop by, explore the art on display, and get involved in the growing creative community.
Both the Avalon Park Arts & Culture Center and L.O.V.E. Our Youth are actively seeking volunteers and community partners to help support programs, exhibitions, and events. Whether through mentoring, teaching, or lending a helping hand at events, there are many ways for residents to get involved and make a difference.
With this new partnership, Avalon Park is continuing its tradition of bringing people together through creativity, connection, and community. The collaboration between the Arts & Culture Center and L.O.V.E. Our Youth ensures that art and culture remain at the heart of Avalon Park — and now, that heart is beating even stronger for the next generation.
For more information about L.O.V.E. Our Youth and its programs, visit www.loveouryouth.org. To learn more about the Avalon Park Arts & Culture Center and upcoming events, visit www.avalonartscenter.com.
