Live Oak Clubhouse youth celebrate grand opening of
new Panda Cares Center of Hope!

On Friday, October 16, 2026, youth members of the Live Oak Boys & Girls Club were joined by local Panda Express associates to celebrate the Grand Opening of the new Panda Cares Center of Hope in the Clubhouse Teen Center.

The Center of Hope is a newly renovated space within our Club designed to deliver a nurturing environment that inspires learning and growth. The Center of Hope is more than just a place for academic success; it is a hub where young people can access a range of resources–including STEM programs, art supplies, and books — as well as participate in workshops, mentorship programs, and extracurricular activities that broaden their horizons and build confidence.  

Thanks to a $45,000 grant from the Panda Cares Foundation, the Center of Hope features new furniture and technology, fresh carpet and paint, and awesome murals by local artist Taylor Reinhold and the Made Fresh Crew. Since 2020, Panda Cares has contributed more than $62 million to enhance academic programming through grants, scholarships, and funding to establish more than 200 of these centers throughout the country.

The Grand Opening Celebration featured a ribbon cutting ceremony, Panda Express food and free books sponsored by Panda Cares Foundation, an opportunity for Club members to take photos with Panda mascot Pei Pei, and Panda-inspired art and writing activities for Club youth. We are extremely grateful to the Panda Cares Foundation, and look forward to activating this incredible new space with a wide range of youth activities for years to come!