Friendship is at the heart of the campus experience. Students build meaningful connections alongside peers who understand and champion one another.
Center, students can explore classes in graphic design, coding and game design. There will also be traditional art education courses on painting, photography, filmmaking, woodworking and jewelry making. A music center will hold classes in songwriting and audio production and mixing. The Creative Center plans to host student exhibitions and welcome visiting artists from around the world. Connection, Growth, Acceptance & Opportunity The Friendship Campus, designed by international architecture and design firm Gensler, has two spacious courtyards and includes a community center, scholastic spaces for children, vocational training areas, a teaching kitchen and a theater. The goal is for these spaces to be inviting and help spark friendships.
The café and rec areas are for students to hang out and connect. The health and wellness center’s fitness classes encourage fun, healthy habits and friendship. The mentoring program, financial empowerment academy and life skills center aim to
provide inspiring support and bolster confidence and independence. “It is a dream come true,” Mintz says of the campus, which will enhance the Friendship Foundation’s holistic approach to empower community students with special needs to hone their unique gifts and thrive. “The Friendship Foundation board of directors, together with our gracious donors, has tirelessly worked on this project. For it to come to fruition is a miracle.” •
FRIENDSHIP CAMPUS AT-A-GLANCE: Location: 850 S. Inglewood Avenue, Redondo Beach Opening: October 2026 Funding: A $70 million capital campaign project funded by grants, businesses, foundations and private donors. Enrollment: An estimated 6,000 students may enroll in courses in the fall. Tuition & Scholarships: Programs are not yet priced. Scholarships will be available. Updates and course offerings: friendshipfoundation.com/campus To volunteer: friendshipfoundation.com/volunteer
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