By Father Joseph Paradayil (Aptos, California – September 15, 2026) – Dear Friends, Benefactors, and Well-Wishers of Camp St. Francis, As we begin a new school year, I am pleased to share some updates from Camp St. Francis and to express my heartfelt gratitude for your continued support. A Joyful and Successful Summer Season We have concluded a very successful Summer Season 2026, filled with … Continue reading Camp St. Francis Updates: A Joyful Summer and Looking Ahead

By Christina Mendoza (Boyle Heights, California – September 3, 2026) – As summer comes to an end, the Salesian Family Youth Center is reflecting on a season filled with learning, service, leadership, and community. A Summer of Learning, Growth, and Fun Summer Camp has officially ended, marking seven incredible weeks of activities and opportunities for young people. A total of 125 TK–8th grade campers participated … Continue reading Saying Goodbye to Summer, Hello to a New School Year!

By JC Montenegro, PhD Terrace Kidz Marketing Project: Building Real-World Career Pathways for Young People (Boyle Heights, California) – At the Salesian Family Youth Center, we are committed to creating opportunities that prepare young people not only for academic success but also for life and work beyond the classroom. The Terrace Kidz Marketing Project was created with that goal at its core—to provide a career-readiness experience that introduces young … Continue reading Can You Imagine Teenagers Running Your Social Media Campaigns? Inside the Terrace Kidz Marketing Project

By An Ho (Stockton, California) – The Don Bosco Youth Group at Mary Help of Christians Center recently hosted its annual summer camp, Camp Bosco: Changemakers Lab. What began as a simple idea in 2024 has quickly become the highlight of the group’s summer activities. Each year, members of the youth group eagerly look forward to camp, and this year’s five-day experience was filled with … Continue reading Camp Bosco: Changemakers Lab Inspires Faith, Friendship, and Leadership at Mary Help of Christians Center

By Vien Nguyen, SDB (Stockton, California) – Every year, Camp Don Bosco brings together children and young people from the community for a time filled with faith, friendship, learning, and fun. Behind this dynamic program is a dedicated team of youth and adults who generously offer their time and talents to create a meaningful experience for the campers. More than 30 youth and adults gathered … Continue reading We Can Do It! Change Makers

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 … Continue reading Goodbye School, Hello Summer! | Camp Salesian 2026 Begins

By JC Montenegro, PhD (Boyle Heights, California) More than 150 youth gathered at the Salesian Family Youth Center to celebrate soccer, leadership, and the beginning of a summer of service. A dynamic and engaging sharing as Karla motivates a large group of young people in a vibrant community gathering. A dynamic and engaging sharing as Karla motivates a large group of young people in a … Continue reading While the USA Won on the Field, We Won in Community at Camp Salesian

By JC Montenegro, PhD (Los Angeles, California) A retreat in the mountains of California became a powerful moment of friendship, reflection, and unity among young Salesian leaders preparing for summer camp ministry, as shown in the group photo above, where head counselors from Camp Savio and Camp Salesian gathered, showcasing teamwork and camaraderie. For the first time, the head counselors from Camp Salesian and Camp … Continue reading “What Unites Us”: Salesian Youth Leadership Brings Camp Savio and Camp Salesian Together for the First Time

(Boyle Heights, California) – The Salesian Family Youth Conference 2026 will bring together young people from across Boyle Heights for a day of leadership, community, workshops, music, and inspiration. Rooted in the spirit of Don Bosco, the conference seeks to empower youth to grow in confidence, discover their voices, and become leaders committed to positive change. Elevate, Empower, Collaborate, UniteJune 6, 20268:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m.2228 E. … Continue reading A Voice for the Future – SFYC Youth Conference 2026

By JC Montenegro, PhD (Los Angeles, California) – This initiative brings a historic opportunity to children from Boyle Heights and East Los Angeles—communities where many young people face limited access to organized sports and recreational opportunities. Through this grant, over $26,000 has been invested to expand soccer programming for more than 80 children per season, ages 9 to 14, providing structured leagues and seasonal play … Continue reading The Salesian Family Youth Center is proud to announce a transformative partnership with the Los Angeles Sports & Entertainment Commission (LASEC), made possible through the World Cup 2026 Extraordinary Impact Grant supported by the LA84 Foundation.

By Christina Mendoza (Boyle Heights, California) — The Salesian Family Youth Center continues to empower local youth through leadership, service, education, and community-building initiatives, highlighted in its April programs focused on environmental stewardship, student achievement, sports, arts, and volunteerism. Spreading Kindness in Our Community We are grateful to the Boys & Girls Club for inviting our youth to participate in their Kindness Summit. Throughout the … Continue reading April in Action: Leadership, Service & Community Impact

By Christina Mendoza (Boyle Heights, California) – Spring is here, and we’re excited for everything happening at our Youth Center! Our sports programs are in full swing, and March was packed with action and memorable moments. We can’t wait to keep the energy going this season as we gear up for an incredible summer camp! Leaders in Service: Girl Scouts Support Long Beach Clean-Up On … Continue reading Blooming Together: April News from Salesian Family Youth Center

By Luis Chacon, Coordinator of Youth Ministry (Boyle Heights, California) – Two weeks ago, on February 28, the Salesian Family Youth Center community gathered for a memorable evening at our 4th Annual Gala, “A Night of Hope.” It was a celebration filled with joy, generosity, and a powerful reminder of what can happen when a community comes together in support of young people. Nearly 300 … Continue reading A Night of Hope: Celebrating Community and Generosity at Our 4th Annual Gala

By Luis Chacon, Salesian Family Youth Center- Los Angeles (Boyle Heights, California) – Across the Salesian mission in the United States, lay leaders continue to play an essential role in accompanying young people, strengthening communities, and sustaining the charism of Don Bosco in everyday life. Recently, we witnessed a powerful example of this commitment during a conference led by Juan Carlos Montenegro, Executive Director of … Continue reading Returning to the Source: Lay Leadership Rooted in Encounter with God

By LeAn Tran, Youth Leader (Stockton, California) – Don Bosco Youth of St. Luke’s Church had the opportunity to celebrate Lunar New Year (Tết) this past weekend! Tết is celebrating the arrival of spring and a fresh new start. It’s a time to honor family, friends, and ancestors, with the sharing of lucky red envelopes, or  Lì Xì, often filled with money. 2026 is the … Continue reading Celebrating Faith, Culture, and Family This Lunar New Year

By Lauren Fishkin, GS Parent (Boyle Heights, California) – Geared up with cards, markers, stickers, and love in their hearts, SFYC Troop 82563 set out with one mission: bring joy and kindness to the seniors in their community. The troop spent time over the course of 2 days working to make over 100 Valentine cards for Hollenbeck Towers, an assisted living senior facility that caters … Continue reading The Salesian Family Youth Center Troop 82563 plays “Cupid Crew”

By Christina Mendoza, Outreach Coordinator (Boyle Heights, California) – Our new year is off to a great start with many programs offered here at the Salesian Family Youth Center! We see the difference in our students everyday as we gear towards our 4th Annual Gala, Una Noche de Esperanza✨, at the end of the month! Our Gala is quickly approaching—don’t miss the chance to join … Continue reading SFYC Love in Action: Celebrating Youth

By JC Montenegro, PhD, Executive Director of the Salesian Family Youth Center (Boyle Heights, California) – It is often interesting how meaningful experiences begin with something simple. In this case, it started with an email from Gabriela Gordillo-Banuelos, Director of the Center for Service and Justice, sharing that more than twelve seniors from Loyola High School were looking for a place to complete their required service … Continue reading Service That Builds Community and Shapes Young Hearts

(Boyle Heights, California) – In the spring of 2025, eighteen students from the Salesian Family Youth Center embarked on an unforgettable journey through Northern California’s top universities, including UC Santa Barbara, UC Berkeley, UC Santa Cruz, CSU Monterey Bay, and Cal Poly San Luis Obispo. This College Exposure Trip was more than a visit—it was a hands-on experience designed to expand students’ horizons, deepen their … Continue reading Empowering Futures: 2025 Northern California College Exposure Trip Inspires Our Youth

By Christina Mendoza, Outreach Coordinator – (Los Angeles, CA) – November brought incredible moments to the Salesian Family Youth Center! From serving 150 members and families at our Thanksgiving celebration, to volunteers rolling up their sleeves to help beautify our space, to our youth making amazing autumn memories—there was so much to be proud of. Check out our highlights! Annual Thanksgiving Dinner for Members and Their … Continue reading November Highlights: Gratitude, Growth & Great Futures

By JC Montenegro, PhD – (Los Angeles, CA) – At the Salesian Family Youth Center, we believe that real community impact in Boyle Heights happens when young professionals are given meaningful opportunities to grow while serving others. This article highlights the journey of Ingrid Rodriguez, whose internship brought creativity, discipline, and new energy to our communication work. I am grateful for her professionalism, dedication, and … Continue reading Designing with Purpose: An Internship That Strengthened Community

(Boyle Heights, California) – The Salesian Family Youth Center is pleased to partner with “Seeds of Hope,” a ministry of the Episcopal Diocese of Los Angeles, whose mission is to “seek food justice – equal, affordable access to healthy, nutritious food – which is currently not the reality in Los Angeles.” Join us at the Su Salud Está En Sus Manos Farmers Market every 1st and … Continue reading A Free Farmers Market Is Coming to Boyle Heights / Un mercado agrícola gratuito llegará a Boyle Heights

By JC Montenegro, PhD (Boyle Heights, California) – From July 1, 2024, to June 30, 2025, the Salesian Family Youth Center reached over 2,000 children and young people, sparking growth, creativity, and connection. This year, we celebrated milestones like publishing two books and expanding programs in education, athletics, and spiritual development. These highlights reflect our mission in action, empowering youth, strengthening communities, and building a … Continue reading Transparency in Action: Celebrating a Year of Growth and Achievements

By JC Montenegro, PhD (Los Angeles, California) – We are getting ready for an unforgettable evening at the third Salesian Family Youth Center Gala. It will occur on Saturday, February 28, 2026 at Luminarias Restaurant in Monterey Park, California. You are an important part of our organization; without you, we won’t be able to serve the children of our community. We would love for you to … Continue reading Save the Date for the Salesian Family Youth Center Gala

By Jolean Matsumoto, Camp Chaperone (Aptos, California) – This summer, St. Francis Youth Camp proved to be more than just a getaway—it was a journey filled with faith, connection, joy, and discovery. Nestled in a beautiful, peaceful natural setting, the camp was the perfect backdrop for a truly unforgettable experience. From the moment we arrived, the energy was warm and welcoming. The site itself was … Continue reading Faith, Fun, and Friendship: St. Francis Youth Camp 2025

By JC Montenegro, PhD (Los Angeles, California) – Nine months have passed since the devastating Eaton Fire, yet for many families in Altadena, the road to recovery is still long and difficult. Homes were lost, loved ones mourned, and daily life turned upside down. But amid the ashes, stories of resilience, faith, and generosity remind us that hope still burns brightly. At the Salesian Family … Continue reading From Ashes to Hope: Families Finding Strength Together

By JC Montenegro, PhD (Los Angeles, California) -Camp Salesian 2025 welcomed children for seven weeks, serving an average of 102 campers each week. While attendance dipped slightly due to factors such as immigration and family challenges, 79% of families received financial aid, ensuring broad access to the program. The camp operated with 72 youth counselors and 10 staff, creating a vibrant community where most volunteers … Continue reading Camp Salesian Report

By Luis Chacon, CYM (Los Angeles, California) – This past Saturday morning, August 23, at Dockweiler State Beach, we witnessed something extraordinary. Thirty of our youth from across Boyle Heights and beyond were learning to surf. It was their very first time. Thanks to the Black Surfers Collective, led by Marie Rachal, our young people— from the Salesian Family Youth Center representing St. Mary’s Parish, … Continue reading Breaking Barriers: Boyle Heights Youth Discover Surfing

By Luis Chacon, Coordinator of Youth Ministry (Los Angeles, California) – On Tuesday, August 5, 2025, seven young women leaders from the Salesian Family Youth Center had the incredible opportunity to attend the Latina Public Service Academy 2025 Summer Reception — an inspiring evening celebrating powerful Latina voices in public service. Seeing leaders like Commissioner Jenny Chavez, Councilmember Imelda Padilla, Julie Chavez Rodriguez, and Tracey … Continue reading Empowering Latina Leaders: A Night to Remember

By Luis Chacon, Coordinator of Youth Ministry (Los Angeles, California) – What happens when organizations come together to empower youth toward higher education? The answer: transformation, inspiration, and opportunity. On Friday, August 1, 2025, thanks to the generous leadership of Stephanie Romo, Founder and Executive Director of A Place For Youth, the Salesian Family Youth Center had the privilege of taking 25 young people on … Continue reading Collaboration for Youth Empowerment in Education

By JC Montenegro, PhD (Los Angeles, California) – Last week, we celebrated something extraordinary at the Salesian Family Youth Center: the book premiere and signing of “Stories of Identity, Leadership, and Dreams” and “Notes from Chicago.” These two books are collections of stories written by young people from our very own community, stories of identity, leadership, purpose, and dreams. These are not just books; they are living proof of … Continue reading Read the Stories of Young People Redefining Our Community

By JC Montenegro, PhD (Boyle Heights, California) – Every summer program offers something valuable to its participants, but Camp Salesian stands out for one key reason: young people lead the way. While most camps are staffed entirely by adults, we entrust our teenagers with real responsibility. As camp counselors, they are responsible for guiding, supervising, and caring for our younger campers. This model doesn’t just … Continue reading Summer at Salesian Family Youth Center: A Youth-led Community Experience

By Luis Chacon, Coordinator of Youth Ministry (Los Angeles, California) – Last Thursday, July 24, something remarkable happened at the Salesian Family Youth Center in Boyle Heights. We celebrated the release of not one, but two books written entirely by students from Roosevelt High School and Bravo High School—a milestone that represents months of effort, courage, and vision. Since December, I’ve had the privilege of … Continue reading What Happens When You Hand a Pen to a Young Storyteller?

By JC Montenegro, PhD This summer, something quiet but powerful happened through the Salesian Youth Leadership Conference (SYLC). A young leader, Pahtli, stepped into a space looking for a break and walked out with a renewed understanding of herself and her place in the world. The Salesian Family Youth Center brought a group of young leaders to participate in the Salesian Youth Leadership Conference (SYLC), … Continue reading Finding Herself: Pahtli’s Journey Toward Peace

(Los Angeles, California) – June 15, 2025 – Dear Salesian Friends,  Many of you are aware of the recent immigration activity in our city and the growing fear it has caused families, especially those who are already facing serious challenges. At the Salesian Family Youth Center, we feel it, too. Our staff are part of this neighborhood. Our families are your families. And like you, … Continue reading Statement from the Executive Director of the Salesian Family Youth Center

By JC Montenegro, PhD (Los Angeles, California) – This past Saturday, something out of the ordinary happened at the Salesian Family Youth Center. Instead of the usual rhythm of programs, meetings, and outreach, thirteen of us, staff from different sites across the city, stepped away together for a half-day retreat. It was a simple gathering, but it carried something deeper. It reminded us of who we are, … Continue reading Something Out of the Ordinary: A Morning of Rest, Reflection, and Renewal in the Name of Don Bosco 

By Judy Alvarez, Salesian Cooperator (Los Angeles, California) – After graduating from college, women in the United States seek fewer jobs in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM). In 2023, women comprised 47% of the US workforce but only 7% of the 12 million jobs available in STEM fields.* Factors contributing to such statistics include limited quality STEM education programs, social bias, and lack of … Continue reading Girl Scout Troop #82563: “Space Science Explorers”

By JC Montenegro, PhD (Los Angeles, California) – “I felt like I belonged to something bigger than myself,” shared Angel, the program coordinator at the Salesian Family Youth Center in Los Angeles, his voice brimming with emotion through the screen. At that moment, even a virtual meeting felt like home, a true reflection of what happens when Salesian hearts unite. That spirit filled the air when … Continue reading United for Youth: A Historic Encounter Between Salesian Centers in Port Chester and Los Angeles

By JC Montenegro, PhD – (Los Angeles, California) – On April 12, 2025, more than 100 young people from across Los Angeles gathered at the Salesian Family Youth Center for a day of dialogue, reflection, and vision-setting. Centered around the theme “We Are the Now,” the Youth Summit created a space where participants shared personal stories and addressed the challenges they face, including mental health, … Continue reading Youth Summit Voices Reach Sacramento: Advocating for Change in California

By JC Montengro, PhD (Los Angeles, California) – In the heart of Boyle Heights, the Salesian Family Youth Center (SFYC) is a place of hope, resilience, and transformation. While its programs and facilities benefit countless children and families, the true soul of the center lies in its staff, dedicated individuals whose own journeys are testaments to the power of community, mentorship, and love. Each staff … Continue reading The Heart of Service: Staff Stories Behind the Salesian Family Youth Center

By JC Montengro, PhD – (Bellflower, California) – On March 14, 2025, something extraordinary happened. Over 300 young people from different schools, backgrounds, and life experiences gathered together for the first Camp Savio meeting of the year. Even though Camp Savio won’t officially begin until July, these young leaders have already committed to months of preparation, training, and—most importantly—service. At first glance, you could see … Continue reading Answering the Call: Young People Committed to Building Community and Serving Others

(Bellflower, California) – The Savio Club at Warren High School, a public school in Downey, California, witnessed new enthusiasm this week when JC Montenegro, a leader from Camp Savio at St. Dominic Savio Church, visited to speak about the transformative summer camp experience. The invitation came from a group of students who recently founded the Savio Club, a student-led initiative to expand the reach of … Continue reading Savio Club Brings the Spirit of Camp Savio to Warren High School

By JC Montenegro, PhD (Los Angeles, California) – A new documentary produced by the Salesian Family Youth Center sheds light on the stories of young people born in the United States to immigrant parents. These youth live at the crossroads of two cultures, navigating identity struggles, cultural expectations, and language barriers that many never fully understand. The video, available on YouTube, offers a poignant look … Continue reading Growing Up Between Worlds: Voices of Children Born in the USA to Immigrant Parents

By JC Montenegro, PhD (Los Angeles, California) – In a tradition now entering its fourth year, the Salesian Family Youth Center once again recognized young people’s outstanding achievements and leadership through its annual Youth of the Year (YOY) Awards. This ceremony celebrates youth who exemplify the values of compassion, determination, and service, which are deeply rooted in the Salesian mission. The awards are divided into … Continue reading Salesian Family Youth Center Pays Tribute to Exemplary Young People of the Year

By JC Montenegro, PhD – (Los Angeles, California) – In the heart of Los Angeles, the Salesian Family Youth Center is a place of hope and opportunity for young people. Inspired by its mission to empower the community, the Career Readiness Program was created to prepare youth for success in the professional world. This year, the program proudly celebrated the graduation of a dedicated group … Continue reading Building Brighter Futures in Los Angeles: Celebrating the Graduates of a Career Readiness Program

By JC Montenegro, PhD – (Boyle Heights, California) – True community shines through in times of crisis. As Los Angeles faces devastating fires that have displaced families and strained local resources, the Salesian Family Youth Center (SFYC) has stepped up to support those most in need. Guided by compassion, leadership, and the unwavering spirit of service, SFYC has been working tirelessly to bring relief and … Continue reading Rising Together: How the Salesian Family Youth Center is Supporting Los Angeles During the Fires

By Judy Alvarez (Los Angeles, California) – On Monday, January 13, the Salesian Family Youth Center (SFYC) Girl Scout Troop #82563 expressed gratitude and solidarity towards the Los Angeles City Fire Department, Station 2 firefighters. Under the guidance of Miriam Hernandez, the Girl Scout leader, the troop moved into action. They gathered donations of Gatorade, protein shakes, snacks, water, and wipes to show gratitude for … Continue reading Salesian Family Girl Scout Troop Reaches Out to Local Firefighters

A Summary from Salesian Family Youth Center Instagram Posts (Los Angeles, California) – During the week of Thanksgiving, forty-five incredible young people from the Salesian Family Youth Center programs embarked on a life-changing college tour of the San Francisco Bay Area. This experience was a turning point for many, shaping their dreams, opening new possibilities, and guiding their decisions about universities to apply to. Their … Continue reading A College Tour to Spark Youth Dreams

By JC Montenegro, PhD (Los Angeles, California) – As women around the world take on more leadership roles, empowering young women with skills and confidence is essential. This year, 22 young women from the Salesian Family Youth Center joined the Women in Leadership Conference hosted by the Los Angeles Chamber of Commerce. Accompanied by Executive Director Juan Carlos Montenegro and board members, these young leaders … Continue reading Empowering Young Women Leaders: A Transformative Experience at the Women in Leadership Conference

(Los Angeles, California) – Join us for an unforgettable evening at our 2025 Gala!  Enjoy live music, great food, and awards honoring those who inspire our youth center. By attending, you’ll support our mission and help make a difference in the lives of young people. Watch a video invite in this link.  To reserve your seat or table—or to join the Gala Committee—please contact JC Montenegro.  Be part of this … Continue reading Salesian Family Youth Center 2025 Gala Tables Now Available

By JC Montenegro, PhD (Los Angeles, California) – At the Salesian Family Youth Center, we believe that every young person has the potential to grow, learn, and thrive when given the right tools and environment. In a world where challenges are abundant, fostering a growth mindset—the belief that abilities and intelligence can be developed with effort—has become a central theme in how we approach our work … Continue reading Nurturing a Growth Mindset at the Salesian Family Youth Center

By JC Montenegro, PhD (Los Angeles, California) – Explore the transformative achievements of the Salesian Family Youth Center in our End of Year Report. This document provides an in-depth look at our initiatives and their impact on the children and families we serve, highlighting the important differences we’ve made over the past year. At the Salesian Family Youth Center, we are committed to fostering growth … Continue reading End of Year Report: Discover the Impact of the Salesian Family Youth Center

By Miriam Hernandez (Los Angeles, California) – Girl Scout Troop 82563 at the Salesian Family Youth Center resumed activities for the year on Saturday, October 5, 2024. Girl Scouts are known for fostering strength and character in girls through well-prepared activities and programs. To spread awareness of this opportunity in the neighboring community, invitations were sent to local schools and Salesian parishes.  At our first … Continue reading Girl Scout Troop in Boyle Heights Offers New Beginnings

By JC Montenegro, PhD (Los Angeles, California) – Seven young writers from Boyle Heights showcased their first published book at the Salesian Family Youth Center in an event featured personal stories of overcoming fears and self-doubt, highlighting the center’s role in empowering them. Attendees reflected on the importance of supporting young people, with the writers emphasizing vulnerability and growth. The celebration reinforced the impact of … Continue reading You Are Invited to Read “Wind Walkers”

By JC Montenegro, PhD In a moving celebration of creativity and resilience, seven young writers from the Boyle Heights community recently presented their first published book at the Salesian Family Youth Center. The event, led by Luis Chacon and JC Montenegro, drew over 50 enthusiastic attendees eager to support and celebrate the achievements of these remarkable young authors. The evening was filled with inspiration as … Continue reading Empowering Voices: Young Writers from Boyle Heights Shine at Salesian Family Youth Center

(Richmond, California) Dear West County Salesian Youth Club Community,  It is with profound sadness that we share the news of the passing of Steve Alameda, our beloved leader, mentor, and friend. Steve passed away on Saturday, August 31st, leaving behind a legacy of dedication, compassion, and unwavering commitment to the youth and families of our community.  Steve was a cornerstone of the West County Salesian … Continue reading Letter from West County Salesian Youth Club

Here is a glimpse of some of the Salesian summer oratories in which young people around the province are having a fun and growth-filled summer. St Luke’s Church, Stockton, CA – We have a lot of HAPPY CAMPERS! We are more than halfway through our second week of camp!  https://www.instagram.com/stlukechurch/ Salesian Family Youth Center, Los Angeles – Camp Salesian: Discover the Power of Empathy Build … Continue reading Salesian Summer Camp Posts

By Sheila Kun, Salesian Cooperator This morning, it is 50 degrees at the beautiful Salesian campsite in Aptos, California, 15 minutes from our Watsonville Mary Help of Christian Parish. Most of you would think of a summer camp as a hot and humid place. Not so at Camp St. Francis. The temperature could range from 50 to 78 degrees, all in one day. Just like … Continue reading A Week at Camp St.Francis – How Cool Is It?

By Dianne Lumsdaine and Julia Tafoya, Salesian Cooperators Salesian Cooperators had a very rewarding experience feeding Camp Savio on Monday, July 15, at St. Dominic Savio Church. Ten Cooperators, two aspirants from the Savio English Speaking Center, and a few parish volunteers gathered to serve lunch for over 570 young people, including campers and counselors, ranging in age from Pre-K through young adults. The meal … Continue reading A Taste of Camp Savio

By JC Montenegro, PhD Based on my experience managing summer programs and working closely with young people, I have realized that summer camps effectively combat panic attacks. This year, I have encountered an unprecedented number of panic attacks among our campers and teenage counselors. These episodes are characterized by an overwhelming surge of fear and anxiety that takes over the body and mind. Symptoms include … Continue reading Building Resilience: How Summer Camps Help Young People To Deal With Frustration

Dear Friends,  Greetings from Camp St. Francis, Aptos! I am sure all are in summer and vacation Mode. Please find attached our Summer newsletter with   News and Dates of Masses at the camp, for the next couple of months. Please mark your calendar. A big thank you to Katie Kelly for all the help with formatting and computer work, and to Laurie and Kim for suggestions and … Continue reading Summer Update from Camp St. Francis

By Frank Lavin, Salesian Cooperator San Francisco, CA – The Salesian Boys’ and Girls’ Club Musical Theatre Program performed “Legally Blonde Jr” three times over the weekend of June 7th through the 9th. Theatre has been a longtime staple activity for youth at The Club. This was their first live musical performance in the auditorium since the pandemic. Over fifty kids participated as actors, chorus … Continue reading Live Musical Performance Returns to the Salesian Boys’ and Girls’ Club

By Luis Chacon and JC Montenegro, PhD On May 17th, leaders and friends of the Salesian Family Youth Center had the privilege of attending the Ethical Leadership event organized by the Archdiocese of Los Angeles at the Cathedral of Los Angeles. This gathering provided an excellent opportunity to promote the mission of the Salesian Family Youth Center, learn from outstanding panelists, and connect with like-minded Catholic leaders. … Continue reading Salesian Family Youth Center Present for the Ethical Leadership Lunch at the Archdiocese of Los Angeles

By Frank Lavin, Salesian Cooperator On Monday, May 6th at Sts. Peter and Paul Church in San Francisco, the Salesian Boys and Girls Club celebrated its eighty-third annual Fr. Trinchieri Founders Mass and Old Timers’ Dinner. The tradition of honoring the Club’s founder, Fr. Oreste Trinchieri, SDB, or “Fr. Trink,” as he was affectionately known, dates back to 1941 when Angelo Fusco, the Executive Director … Continue reading 83rd Annual Fr. Trinchieri Founders Mass and Old Timers’ Dinner

By JC Montenegro, PhD For over two years, the Salesian Family Youth Center has been actively involved in events organized by The Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce. Through these engagements and newfound connections, we have forged a meaningful partnership with Visión y Compromiso. On Friday, March 29th, Visión y Compromiso convened the event “Agenda: Su Salud está en sus manos” (Agenda: Your Health is … Continue reading Collaborative Efforts in Promoting Community Health: A Partnership Highlight at the Salesian Family Youth Center

By Luis Chacon (Los Angeles, California) – From March 12th to 14th, I represented the Salesian Family Youth Center at the annual ACCESS D.C. event organized by the Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce. This gathering, attended by over 130 delegates, was a platform for advocating crucial issues impacting the Los Angeles region, bridging the gap between policymakers and community stakeholders. In the spirit of … Continue reading Advocating for Change in Washington D.C.: A Journey Inspired by Don Bosco

By Vivien (Visa) Hughston, Nursing Student at Sonoma State University (Expected Graduation 2025) (San Francisco – California) – Cioppino is a community fundraiser event for the Salesian Boys’ and Girls’ Club that happens every year at The Club. It started out as a night or two in the month of January that had a capacity of 200 each night. Since then, it has grown tremendously. Specifically … Continue reading Salesian Boys and Girls Club Cioppino

(Los Angeles, California) – Two years ago, the Salesian Family Youth Center embarked on a journey that initially filled our team with apprehension: organizing a Gala. In 2023, our inaugural Salesian Family Youth Center Gala aimed to bring together friends of our center without losing funds critical to supporting the children we serve.  Thanks to widespread support, we successfully raised approximately $40,000. Motivated by the … Continue reading Salesian Family Youth Center Gala: Fun for Funds

(Los Angeles, California) – A message from the Salesian Youth Center and the children inviting the community to join this year’s fundraising Gala. Dear Salesian Family, We are delighted to share some exciting news with you! On February 24, 2024, we will be hosting our second annual gala. This remarkable event aims to celebrate the incredible work being carried out at the Salesian Family Youth Center. … Continue reading Salesian Family Youth Center Gala