Upcoming Events
In addition to the events listed here, OTW regularly offers its participants guidance on housing, legal, financial, and career matters, organizes opportunities for young adults to pursue their personal interests, and provides connections to additional resources. To learn more, see how we build community, promote growth, and facilitate healing.
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Meet Me Where I’m At: Empathy Heals
This campaign aims to raise awareness about mental health and substance use by sharing knowledge, resources, and personal stories to empower our community. Our goal is to reduce stigma, promote open conversations, and create a supportive environment where individuals feel seen, heard, and connected to the help they need.
Funding is provided by the Center for Wellness and Nutrition, a program of the Public Health Institute, through funding from the California Department of Public Health.
Follow us on Instagram @otwforyouth to learn more about our classes.

(Open to Marin County Youth & Young Adults Ages 16-26)
Applications for the 2025-2026 OTW Program Year will be available and accepted from June 1st to September 10th. If you or someone you know is between the ages of 16 and 26 and interested in joining a community of peers, please visit our Application Page during that time to apply.
(Open to Marin County 16-26-year-olds)
Interviews for the 2025-2026 OTW Program Year will take place during the first few weeks of September. Applicants will be notified of acceptance the last two weeks of September. If you or someone you know is between the ages of 16 and 26 and interested in joining a community of peers, please consider applying.
(OTW Participants Only)
OTW’s Annual Fall Retreat is designed to build community and facilitate bonding between new participants, alumni, and staff, by deepening our understanding of ourselves and each other.
Past Events
(OTW Participants Only)
OTW participants approved to travel internationally will visit Peru in July of 2025 and learn about the country’s rich culture and history.
(OTW Participants Only)
We have been invited back by the Diné Navajo in Window Rock, Arizona, to support their annual Sundance ceremony. We will stay on the reservation and help with various tasks, including cooking for the elders, drummers, and firekeepers. This moving week-long ceremony is a community gathering for spiritual cleansing and healing.
Afterwards, we will visit North Dakota and South Dakota.
Angel Moms is a social group that grew out of a mutual need for connection and comfort during the early days of loss. Due to the circumstances of their children’s deaths, each mom had a calling to advocate for a cause. As each began their outreach efforts and shared their stories publicly, the Angel Moms became known.
Join Opening the World and Angel Moms of Marin for an evening of learning and connection for parents and young adults. The film and panel will include Kate Ruehle (sohererightnow.com) and other Angel Moms.
For additional May Mental Health Month events, see: https://prevention.marinbhrs.org/MMHM2025
Refreshments will be provided.
RSVP: Email info@openingtheworld.org or call/text (415) 419-9695 to attend.
Funded by: Funding for this event is provided by the Center for Wellness and Nutrition, a program of the Public Health Institute, through funding from the California Department of Public Health.
(For youth and young adults ages 14-26)
Want to destress? Ever been curious about improv? Just need a good laugh? Join us OTW’s April Improv Workshop that’s all about laughing, connecting, and having fun, taught by OTW alum Brittany Nielsen.
Whether you need to unwind, spark your creativity, or just enjoy some silly moments, this class has got you. You’ll learn some basic improv games and exercises that encourage playfulness, connection, and being present in the moment (that’s all we ever have, right?).
No improv experience necessary! It’s a chill space to laugh, mess up, and just be yourself.
🎉 Enjoy snacks and drinks & win prizes!
‼️Limited spots available.
Cost: Free
RSVP Required: Email info@openingtheworld.org or call/text (415) 419-9695 to let us know you’ll be there.
Funded by: Funding for this event is provided by the Center for Wellness and Nutrition, a program of the Public Health Institute, through funding from the California Department of Public Health.
Save the date for our next Annual Dinner Silent Auction!
Opening the World participants will host an evening featuring youth speakers, delicious food, and community building to raise awareness for and directly benefit Marin County youth. This year’s theme will be Peru in honor of our 2025 annual summer trip.
OTW has been growing significantly and we look forward to sharing more with you on March 29!
Please support us by:
Attending the event and bringing friends and family - BUY TICKETS
Donating items for the auction, such as vacation stays or other experiences - Email info@OpeningtheWorld.org
Sponsoring the event - see more information HERE
We look forward to seeing you there.
Join us for an exciting event of artistic expression through clay and collages. For all levels of experience - come create art with us!
Bring a friend or invite a peer.
Cost: Free
RSVP Required: Email info@openingtheworld.org or call/text (415) 419-9695 to let us know you’ll be there.
Funded by: Funding for this event is provided by the Center for Wellness and Nutrition, a program of the Public Health Institute, through funding from the California Department of Public Health.
Learn to make creative videos on your phone. Tips for creating content. Professional equipment demos. Collaborate and hang out with friends. Perfect for all skill levels—come with a curious mind and ready to enjoy!
Space is limited. RSVP required.
Drinks and snacks will be provided. Win prizes!
Cost: Free
RSVP: Email info@openingtheworld.org with questions and to let us know you wish to attend.
Funded by: Funding for this event is provided by the Center for Wellness and Nutrition, a program of the Public Health Institute, through funding from the California Department of Public Health.
From December 15th to 24th, OTW will provide gift-wrapping services at Copperfield’s Books in San Rafael (4th Street ) and Larkspur ( Marin Country Mart).
Do you want to learn how to communicate better with others? Do you want to learn about different communication styles and how others communicate? Join us and learn more about yourself, your communication style, and ways to improve how you communicate with others.
Snacks and drinks provided.
Cost: Free
Facilitator: Jeannine Curley
RSVP: Contact us at (415) 419-9695 or at jeannine@openingtheworld.org.
Location Note: Please enter at the back of the building on Mission Ave.
Visit us at this annual Alternative Gift Market and find the perfect items for your loved ones while supporting a good cause.