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 a meaningful and eye-opening visit to the University of California, Santa Barbara.

These youth—active participants in programs at the Salesian Family Youth Center and the youth ministries of St. Mary’s and St. Isabel’s parishes—were given the opportunity to:

🔹 Explore one of the most beautiful oceanfront campuses in California;

🔹 Learn firsthand about student life, academic programs, and campus resources;

🔹 Reflect on their educational and professional futures;

🔹 Visit the university’s unique coastal reef aquarium and experience science in action.

This visit was not just a tour—it was an invitation to dream bigger. To see themselves on a college campus. To realize that their future is filled with possibilities.

As Salesians, we are committed to the integral formation of young people—spiritually, humanly, intellectually, and professionally. Collaborations like this are essential to that mission. When organizations work together with trust and shared vision, youth thrive.

Editora: Judy Alvarez