Over 100 young people gathered at the Salesian Family Youth Center to share their struggles and offer solutions for a better Los Angeles. Their voices shaped a powerful youth document that JC Montenegro and Luis Chacon presented in Sacramento while joining the Los Angeles Chamber of Commerce. Together, they advocated for policies on mental health, education, safety, housing, and youth leadership. The message was clear: young people are not waiting. They are leading today.
In Boyle Heights, the Salesian Family Youth Center is a place where lives are transformed. Many staff members were once participants who found guidance, support, and purpose within its walls. Now, they lead with that same spirit mentoring youth, building community, and living out the values of service and kindness. SFYC is more than a center; it’s a family where young people grow, lead, and give back.
Jayden, a fourth grader in our Mamba League team, began the season chasing the spotlight, but ended it as a leader. Through teamwork, emotional growth, and guidance from Coach Andres Ortiz, he learned that true greatness lifts others. Though they lost the final game, they walked away with something greater: unity, maturity, and pride. Thanks to our partners, this experience reminded us that when we invest in our youth, we all win.
OUR MISSION, since 1966, is to inspire and enable the young people of Boyle Heights and the surrounding communities to realize their full potential as productive, responsible and caring citizens and to support their families in this effort.
