Young Audiences of Santa Cruz County partnered with the Santa Cruz County School Superintendent's Office and America Cares Partnerships in Character Education to offer a residency program for Calabasas Middle School seventh graders in Rio Rico. During the 10-day program, students explore the importance of good character through performance art workshops.

Participants share their experiences with sixth graders at Calabasas Middle School following the program. YA Director Connie Hutzel explained that the mentorship allows both grade levels to “learn that caring means looking out for other people and that strong character isn't found in the muscles or mind, but in the heart. Respect is the golden rule. Trustworthiness is being truthful with yourself and others."

Young Audiences organizes several performances during the year, inviting the community to support the student performers and their character-building efforts.