10/10/2026
In Arizona, three special places are giving teens a positive place to go after school.
Alice Cooper’s Solid Rock Teen Centers operate in Phoenix, Mesa and Goodyear. The nonprofit is called Solid Rock, founded by Alice Cooper, and its mission is simple. Provide free after school programs in music, dance, art and vocational skills for all teens ages 12 to 20.
At each center, young people can walk in and take part without paying for lessons. They can learn guitar, drums, bass, piano and vocals. They can also explore dance, art, photography, filmmaking and music production. If a teen does not own an instrument, the centers provide equipment to use there at no cost. The centers are open Monday through Friday from 2 pm to 7:30 pm.
The first Rock Teen Center opened in Phoenix in 2012, and later expanded to Mesa and Goodyear. Today all three locations are serving the community. For more than a decade, the centers have welcomed teens who may not otherwise have access to creative learning.
The idea comes from Alice’s own journey. Music gave him purpose, confidence and a sense of belonging. He wanted to create that same opportunity for the next generation, a safe and supportive place where teens can discover talent and spend time with peers.
To support the centers, Alice hosts a yearly benefit concert called Christmas Pudding at the Celebrity Theatre in Phoenix. The show, now in its 24th year, raises funds to keep all classes free.
Three centers. Free classes. Free use of instruments. And a warm place where young people can create, learn and feel at home.
