The Performing Arts for Life and Education Foundation

  • Life Skills
  • Employment Skills
  • Acting Classes for Teens and Young Adults
  • Beyond the stage

Barbara Reece

Chair,  Board of Directors Actress, Entrepreneur and Philanthropist

Deborah Sharpe-Taylor

Secretary,  Board of Directors Actress, Writer, Director

The Performing Arts for Life and Education Foundation believes that youth are a vital resources and with development and exposure to arts study, they can achieve life-long success.  At PALEF, we are giving youth a dramatic break in life. 

Now celebrating our 30th Anniversary of 'being of service" !!T

PALEF  is led by a committed l all volunteer staff of professionals. Co-founder and Artistic Director, Charles Douglass has guided the work of our organization for more than two decades. 

Reverend Dr. DiAnn L. Johnson

Member,  Board of Directors

Minister, Humanitarian, Degreed Black Belt

Volunteers are needed in a variety of areas. Please contact us at 213-359-4500 or email us at palef4youth@gmail.com to join our team and to support our work

Meet Our board

Our Team

Charles Douglass

Member,  Board of Directors

Co-founder and Artistic Director

Chester Whitmore

Treasurer,  Board of Directors Choreographer and Band Leader

Our Mission

  • My Summer with Shakespeare
  • Live Theatrical Productions
  • Civic Engagement and Collaboration
  • Mentorship and Coaching

arts in Action

Join Us