The Santa Barbara Police Activities League (SBPAL) hosted the grand reopening of the Twelve35 Teen Center with a celebratory ribbon cutting on Sept. 16.

After months of vision, design, and community support, the newly re-imagined space now serves as a hub for local youth.

A SBPA youth plays a game of pool with Santa Barbara Police cadets. (R|G Photography)
A SBPA youth plays a game of pool with Santa Barbara Police cadets. (R|G Photography)

At the event Santa Barbara Police Chief Kelly Gordon; PAL student designer Rebecca Barreto; mentor Jesiy Richards; and Yonie Harris, chair of the Women’s Fund Board joined SBPAL executive director Judie Lugo to unveil the next chapter of youth engagement in Santa Barbara.

Attendees explored the Welcome Center, Educational Kitchen, Lounge and Recreation Zones, and a Multipurpose Room, each designed with suggestions from local teens.

The project was made possible through the support of the Women’s Fund of Santa Barbara, the design expertise of Appleton Partners LLP, Ashley & Vance Engineering, VE Builders, and the partnership of the Santa Barbara Parks & Recreation Department, which provides the building and ongoing support.

SBPAL also recognizes the many donors, board members, officers, staff and volunteers whose efforts helped bring this vision to life.