The problem we want to fix is the lack of community engagement and cultural preservation in Canoga Park. Many residents are disconnected from the area's rich history and diverse voices, leading to a diminished sense of belonging and missed opportunities for collective action to care for the environment and each other.
The action we are planning is to collect local photographs and poems that reflect the community's history and creativity, frame and display them in shops and galleries around Canoga Park. This will engage residents, spark conversations, and foster a deeper connection to the community, encouraging cultural preservation and environmental awareness.
Great news! My project is now officially completed! My project focused on writing poems and taking photos around the Canoga Park neighborhood. I created a three-by-three display board consisting of nine pieces of paper that showcase the photos—some taken by me with the help of a friend, Monique Juarez, and others sourced from the internet. I wrote all the poems myself and dedicated the final result to the Canoga Park Library, a branch of the Los Angeles Public Library. Today, I’m proud of what I’ve accomplished, and I hope to have the opportunity to take on more fun projects like this—projects that not only bring the community together but also celebrate the places and people that make our neighborhoods special. Thank you so much for including me!
Sometimes, doing something small can have a bigger impact than you think
I would have change the way I displayed it. I would spend more time researching backwards than spending so much time on the first step :D
When I handed the display to Marcia, our librarian.
If you’re interested in combining art, writing, and community spaces like I did, here are a few things I learned: Start with what inspires you. For me, it was walking around Canoga Park and noticing the everyday beauty in small details. Collaboration makes it better! Don’t be afraid to ask a friend to join you. Monique helped me take some of the photos, and it made the process more fun and creative. Use what’s around you. Local libraries, parks, or neighborhoods are full of inspiration. You don’t have to go far to find something worth writing about or photographing. Keep your materials simple. My final board was just made of paper and printed photos, but arranging them thoughtfully made a big impact. Have fun and be proud. Whether you’re writing poems, taking pictures, or putting it all together, enjoy the process and celebrate your work—it’s yours!
