By Christina Mendoza
(Boyle Heights, California) – We wrapped up another incredible school year on a high note. Our members celebrated the end of an exciting season of sports leagues, academic enrichment activities, and special events. As the school year came to a close, our staff and volunteers shifted their focus to preparing for an unforgettable summer at Camp Salesian. We are grateful for a fantastic year and look forward to all the fun, growth, and memories this summer will bring.
Camp Salesian 2026 Is Underway!
Camp Salesian 2026 is officially underway. Our counselors completed an exciting week of training and were fully prepared to welcome campers on June 15, 2026. We’re looking forward to a summer filled with faith, friendship, adventure, and unforgettable memories.
It’s not too late to join the fun. We are still accepting registrations, and camp runs through July 31. We can’t wait to welcome more campers for an amazing summer at Camp Salesian.
Growing Our Youth Soccer League with FIFA Support
Our youth soccer league continues to grow. Through our grant partnership connected to the FIFA World Cup, we were able to run another exciting season with eight teams across two age divisions. Group A included players ages 9–11, while Group B featured youth ages 12–14.
Our championship teams have been entered into a drawing for a chance to attend a FIFA World Cup match on June 21, 2026. We are grateful to the LA84 Foundation and the Play Equity Fund for their continued partnership in helping us expand and strengthen our soccer league.
Celebrating St. Dominic Savio and Children’s Day
The Salesian Family came together to celebrate St. Dominic Savio and Children’s Day with nearly 70 youth and children from the Salesian Family Youth Center, St. Mary’s Parish, St. Isabel Parish, and the missionary children’s group, Forjadores de Fe.
The afternoon was filled with games, faith, and fun through interactive activities inspired by St. Dominic Savio, St. Mary Mazzarello, and Mary Help of Christians. Thank you to our Salesian Family, volunteers, and community partners—especially Lucy Solís and the Salesian Ladies Association—for helping make this joyful celebration possible.
Behind the Scenes of the World Cup Experience
Our Executive Director, JC Montenegro, and Outreach Coordinator, Christina Mendoza, attended a FIFA World Cup event where they had the opportunity to experience the food offerings at LA Stadium for the upcoming tournament.
They also toured the stadium grounds and observed preparations for the event, including the installation of the natural grass field that will host World Cup matches in Los Angeles.
It was an inspiring experience to witness the collaboration and effort of so many people coming together to prepare for one of the world’s largest sporting events.
Salesian Mission Featured in Upcoming Documentary
The Salesian Family Youth Center welcomed Alberto from Misiones Salesianas as part of a future documentary project highlighting the Salesian mission in border communities and Los Angeles.
Alberto visited Salesian works in Tijuana and Los Angeles, including schools, youth groups, parish communities, and outreach efforts serving migrants and vulnerable populations. He also spent time listening to young people, visiting Skid Row, and learning about the challenges and hopes of the community.
A professional film crew is expected to return in September to continue production of the documentary for Spanish television.
Bravo Cyber League: Building Future Tech Leaders
Our Bravo National Cyber League students have made incredible progress this year. Through competitions and hands-on practice, they have been building their skills, gaining confidence, and learning how to identify patterns and solve cybersecurity challenges.
It has been exciting to see them apply what they learn in real time and grow stronger with each experience. We are proud of their dedication and effort throughout the year and look forward to seeing them continue developing their skills next season.
Faith, Service, and Salesian Spirit in Action
The Salesian Youth Group reflected on the image of Mary Help of Christians and its meaning in the lives of young people. The group also prepared confetti eggs to support fundraising efforts for St. Mary’s Parish celebrations.
It was an afternoon of faith, service, and community that strengthened the Salesian spirit among all who participated.
Gratitude and Mission: Thanking Marius, Our International Volunteer
The Salesian Youth Group gathered for a special evening of reflection and gratitude as they marked the conclusion of Marius’s service as a Salesian Missionary Volunteer.
Youth shared the challenges they faced during the week, difficult moments they experienced, and where they recognized God’s presence in their lives. To thank Marius for his dedication and friendship, the group shared cake and presented a gratitude poster filled with messages from the youth and the Salesians of Don Bosco.
His witness of service, faith, and accompaniment left a lasting impact on our community. We wish him many blessings as he returns to Switzerland.
Stories Above the City
Students from Roosevelt High School and Bravo High School recently gathered at the former Salesian Boys & Girls Club on Wabash Avenue for a photo session connected to their upcoming books.
With the Pine Tree and downtown Los Angeles as a backdrop, these young authors are one step closer to publishing their stories.
Youth Reflect on Purpose and Leadership
This month, members of the Salesian Youth Group gathered to reflect on their summer goals, personal aspirations, and leadership journeys. Through meaningful conversations, they explored ways to grow in faith, character, and service.
The session encouraged intentional living and helped prepare participants for upcoming leadership opportunities, including SYLC 2026.
Looking Ahead with Gratitude
As we conclude this season, we give thanks for a year filled with faith, growth, leadership, and community. From youth programs to parish celebrations and sports, every moment reflects the strength of our Salesian spirit.
We are grateful to our staff, volunteers, families, and partners who make this mission possible, and we look forward with hope to all that lies ahead.