By Luis Chacon, Youth minister, Salesian Volunteers Coordinator and Public Relations Specialist at Salesian Family Youth Center
(Boyle Heights, California) – At the Centro Juvenil de la Familia Salesiana, we empower young people in many ways: by creating spaces for their voices to be heard, exposing them to new environments, walking with them in faith, and forming them as leaders through real-life experiences. This past week reflects how all of that comes together.
Thursday: Salesian Family Youth Center Board Meeting
We began the week with a meeting of the Salesian Family Youth Center Board of Directors. Their guidance, commitment, and support make it possible for us to continue accompanying young people through leadership, education, faith formation, and service. None of the work that follows would be possible without their dedication.
Friday: Journalism Project – Session 2 at Bravo High School
On Friday, we held the second session of the Journalism Project at Bravo High School, where students reflected on their dreams and hopes for the future. Through writing and dialogue, young people began shaping their stories and envisioning what lies ahead.
Friday: Leadership Encounter and Don Bosco Concert
Later that same day, youth visited St. Dominic Savio Parish, where they met future Camp Savio leaders and listened to their leadership journeys. The experience concluded with a concert in honor of St. John Bosco, highlighting how art, faith, and leadership formation intersect.
Saturday: Community Clean-Up on Cesar Chavez Avenue
On Saturday morning, youth joined a community clean-up along Cesar Chavez Avenue, in collaboration with the YMCA and the Boyle Heights Chamber of Commerce. This moment reinforced that leadership also means service and care for our shared spaces.
Saturday: Accompanying Confirmation Youth
Later that day, we accompanied young people from the Confirmation programs at St. Mary’s Parish, St. Isabel Parishy Bishop Mora High School. Walking alongside them emphasized the importance of mentorship and presence during key moments of faith formation.
Tuesday: Journalism Project – Roosevelt High School
On Tuesday, the Journalism Project continued with Roosevelt High School, as students worked on the second chapter of what will become their third published book. The session focused on identity, roots, and dreams, strengthening their confidence as young authors.
Tuesday: Reflecting on Don Bosco as Mentor and Guide
That same Tuesday, youth gathered to reflect on St. John Bosco as a leader and counselor. Guided questions invited them to share what they wish someone would say to them today, creating a space of trust, listening, and encouragement.
Hosting Community Leaders at the Youth Center
On Wednesday, the Centro Juvenil de la Familia Salesiana had the opportunity to host a meeting of the Boyle Heights Chamber of Commerce members. Opening our doors to community leaders reinforced our commitment to collaboration and to building strong partnerships that ultimately benefit the young people and families we serve.
Wednesday Morning: Ethical Leadership Lunch
On Wednesday morning, we participated in the Ethical Leadership Lunch, where leaders from different sectors reflected on faith, integrity, and purpose. The conversations emphasized that ethical leadership is rooted not only in achievement, but in character.
Wednesday Evening: Catholic Association of Latino Leaders Gathering
The week concluded with a gathering hosted by the Catholic Association of Latino Leaders, including a dinner at the Archbishop’s residence. This space fostered dialogue, connection, and reflection on leading with faith and responsibility.
Moving Forward Together
Across every moment—planning, writing, service, art, reflection, and leadership—our mission remains clear: to empower young people by expanding their experiences and helping their world grow bigger. Each encounter is a step toward purpose, confidence, and hope.