✨Happy New Year 2026 ✨

A New Year,

New Momentum

We hope 2026 is off to a restful, reflective, and rejuvenating start for you and your loved ones.

As we step into a new year, we’re taking a moment to reflect on the incredible support, recognition, and community partnerships that carried Horizons through 2025, and set the stage for what’s ahead.


From exciting program growth to new opportunities for youth,

2026 is already shaping up to be a year of momentum, new ideas, and continued impact.

As we welcome 2026, we want to thank everyone who helped make last year so meaningful. Our 60th Anniversary Gala was a powerful reflection of the community that surrounds Horizons.



That evening captured more than a celebration, it reflected the impact Horizons continues to have across our community.

We’re honored that this work has also been recognized by

local and state leaders.

Photos: Amir Abdul-Shakur

We are grateful to have received the following recognitions which reflect the collective efforts of our Youth, Families, Staff,

Board Members, and Community Partners.

These honors affirm the impact of our work and the shared commitment that makes it possible.

Certificate of Honor

presented by D10 Supervisor

Shamann Walton

"For six decades, your organization has been a trusted leader, uplifting youth voice, inspiring hope, and shaping brighter futures for generations to come.

Congratulations on 60 years of impact and continued service."

Photo: Amir Abdul-Shakur

Certificate of Recognition
Presented by Assemblymember

Matt Haney

"In recognition of six decades of service and youth-led action, with unwavering commitment to promote diverse cultural history and mission to nurture potential, strengthen well-being, heal through culture and inspire youth-led change.

Congratulations and thank you for your service!"

We are proud to share that Horizons’

The DJ Project has been named

one of 57 organizations worldwide to receive a grant from the

NAMM (National Association of Music Merchants) Foundation.

The grant supports initiatives that expand access to music learning and open pathways to careers in the music industry—advancing NAMM’s core priorities of participatory music education and career mobility.

January 2026

Annual NAMM Conference 


NAMM, one of the world’s leading music industry conferences, brings together artists, educators, technologists, and industry leaders to share knowledge, explore emerging trends, and build meaningful connections across the global music community.

Through workshops, panels, product demonstrations, and networking opportunities, NAMM provides invaluable insight into the evolving music and media landscape.

2025 NAMM Highlight →

2026 Breakthrough

For the past five years, youth and staff from The DJ Project attended NAMM as participants and learners as part of our ongoing commitment to professional development and innovation.



This year marks a major milestone for The DJ Project.

The DJ Project will perform live on a NAMM stage, with rehearsals

beginning this week.

Performers include:

Four to five current DJ Project youth, along with five adult DJ alumni—including Chris Cuadrado (DJP Coordinator), DJ Quest (DJ Instructor) and Rasul Grayson (DJP Coordinator).

Youth and alumni support roles include:

Filming, photography, and sound, providing hands-on learning experiences across creative and technical disciplines.

"It’s an opportunity of a lifetime, one they’ve earned and deserve,"

said Celina Lucero, Executive Director, Horizons

PRESS RELEASE

Strengthening Families Program (SFP)

SFP enhances communication and relationships for families with children ages 11-14 through culturally sensitive sessions.

This program strengthens family bonds and provides tools for positive interactions, fostering an environment of understanding and support within households.

Enrollment begins the first week of February.

Femmes Against Violence (FAV)

Femmes Against Violence (FAV) is a

5 month, cohort-based, gender-affirming program that promotes healing, agency/voice and leadership for femme-identified, gender-expansive youth (FIGEY) of color ages 14-21.

Offered twice per year, cohorts include programming 3 days per week centered on cultural and gender identity, youth-led action projects and femmehood.

Enrollment begins the first week of February.

On January 6, staff gathered to celebrate Three Kings Day (Epiphany) with a beloved tradition—sharing Rosca de Reyes, the sweet bread that hides a tiny baby figurine inside.



This year, the “lucky” finders were Celso, Ashley (former staff member), and Chris, which means they’re officially on tamale duty! 


We’re looking forward to continuing the celebration together and honoring the traditions that bring warmth and community into our workplace.

440 Potrero Avenue 

San Francisco, CA 94110

(415) 487-6700