By Luis Chacon, Coordinator of Youth Ministry

(Boyle Heights, California) – During the 2025–2026 school year, our Journalism Program served 20 young people: 10 students from Roosevelt High School and 10 from Bravo High School. Each group successfully wrote and published its own book. Bravo High School’s book is titled Beyond the Heights, while Roosevelt High School’s book is titled Hearts of Boyle Heights. These publications represent the fourth and fifth books published through our Journalism Program.

The writing process began in December 2025 and concluded in April 2026. Through their stories, the students reflected on their lives, personal challenges, and lessons learned, with the goal of inspiring and empowering young people to overcome difficulties and become leaders in their communities. They also wrote about their experience attending the Hispanic Leadership Conference in Chicago in February 2026. Samantha, who participated in the program’s first generation, returned to contribute to these fourth and fifth books as an author.

The book release and signing ceremony took place at the Salesian Family Youth Center, bringing together the young authors, their families, and members of the community to celebrate their hard work and achievements. The event highlighted the students’ creativity, personal growth, and commitment to using their voices to inspire others.