Redlands Boys & Girls Club new teen innovation center boosts engagement, creativity

REDLANDS, Calif. — A new teen innovation center at the Boys & Girls Club is already changing how local youth engage after school, offering hands-on access to advanced technology and creative tools designed to inspire the next generation of engineers, creators and entrepreneurs.

The newly opened Garner Holt Teen Innovation Center is aimed at teens ages 11 to 18, providing a space where creativity and technical skills intersect.

The center is equipped with 3D printers, modeling software, screen printing tools, esports and a laser cutting machine.

Curtis Weathers, teen coordinator and design specialist at the club said the impact has been immediate.

“It’s difficult to put into words the impact this STEAM lab is having on retention and willingness to show up,” Weathers said. “Before the STEAM lab, kids would sometimes complain about coming after school. Now they try to stay longer.”

Weathers, a graphic design specialist who grew up as a "club kid," said the lab is helping teens build foundational skills that extend beyond technology.

“It builds a foundation of creative and career skills, like modeling,” he said. “All creativity is problem solving.”

The space is also serving a deeper purpose: providing a consistent, supportive environment for teens during a critical stage of development.

“It’s a safe haven to come and be creative,” Weathers said.

The center was made possible by Garner Holt Productions Inc., a Redlands-based manufacturer of theme park animatronics, along with funding from the Yuhaaviatam of the San Manuel Nation and the Overdeck Family Foundation.

Garner Holt, founder of the Redlands-based animatronics company Garner Holt Productions, spoke at the event about the importance of hands-on learning and inspiring young people to pursue creative and technical careers.

Holt said he hopes the center will inspire teens to follow their dreams by exposing them to the technology and creativity behind industries like theme parks and animatronics.

"When they get their hands on some of the equipment that's in these rooms, they realize there's more to life than sitting on your bed and playing games on your iPad until you're 28 years old," Hold said.

During the grand opening, community leaders emphasized the long-term impact of the program.

“This isn’t just a program, it’s a bold investment in the future of our community,” said Evan Sanford, executive director of the Redlands Chamber of Commerce. “It’s a place where young people will come to explore ideas, build skills, discover passions and realize their own potential.”

For teens like those already participating, the impact goes beyond equipment, it’s about belonging, mentorship and opportunity.

"What started as a place to hang out during breaks turned into a year-round club that I go to even when my friends aren't there," said Sophia Villanueva, Vice President for our Keystone Leadership Program who spoke at the groundbreaking event. "It's because the environment feels safe and supportive."

Club leaders say that combination is exactly what keeps teens coming back.