God has blessed us with around 700 children and young people involved in our summer programs at our two Bellflower and Boyle Heights locations. With such many participants, we need all hands on deck. Our Executive Director, Jc, has been actively involved in the operations of our summer program. However, we are unaware of the extent of the suffering experienced by young people and their families.
Over the past three weeks, we have positively impacted the self-esteem of numerous young individuals. Additionally, we successfully aided a young person who had run away from home. We located the individual and helped facilitate their safe return home thanks to our intervention. We are engaged in various activities and must handle all email correspondence and administrative tasks on the weekends, so we work on Saturdays and Sundays.
But these types of sacrifices make sense when we see our young people growing and taking advantage of the opportunity we provide them. This blog will share some of the special moments we have experienced in our summer program!
Highlights from our summer program
Camp Salesian facilitates children's and young people's social and emotional growth through structured activities, creating a supportive environment where participants develop interpersonal skills, build connections, and cultivate emotional resilience. Through team-building exercises, cooperative games, and discussions, campers learn communication, conflict resolution, and empathy. The nurturing setting encourages self-expression, self-awareness, and emotional regulation, fostering healthy identities. Camp Salesian equips campers with vital life skills for positive relationships, personal well-being, and future success.
Please enjoy the following pictures!
Camper of the WEEK! - 1 minutes video!
The Camper of the Week award at Camp Salesian recognizes exceptional individuals who consistently demonstrate kindness, leadership, teamwork, and a positive attitude. This prestigious honor inspires others and fosters a supportive atmosphere within the camp community, highlighting the transformative experiences and lasting impact of Camp Salesian.
Homemade Food
This year, we are trying something different. We are contacting our community, asking for their support in cooking food for our children so we can provide homemade food once a week. Although we typically receive food from the government, we desire to create a more home-like environment this year.
Fortunately, many groups have stepped up and supported our mission. Thanks to their generous contributions, we have provided once a week homemade food for our children. We are incredibly grateful for your support and love in caring for our children. Thank you so much.
Book Autor visited the Youth Center
Rachel Griffin, a talented young author, recently visited the Salesian Family Youth Center, sharing her book "Finding your Smile" with the children. Through her engaging storytelling, she reminded them to find joy even in difficult times. Rachel's generosity in gifting her books left a lasting impression, promoting the joy of reading and empowerment. Her visit embodied Don Bosco's spirit, inviting all young individuals to make a positive impact with their talents. Together, we can create a brighter future.
Thank you Getty; A Grateful Journey to the Middle Ages!
A big thank you to the Getty Center and Community Arts Resources (CARS) for the incredible medieval-inspired festival! We had a blast with fun activities, delicious food, and convenient transportation. Our children, teenagers, youth, and families had an amazing time and learned about art and the Middle Ages. Gratitude to all involved!
Archdiocese of LA: Mission Appeals
JC Montenegro, Luis Chacon, and Fr. Fabian Cardenas have been visiting churches within the Archdiocese of Los Angeles to talk about the mission of the Salesian Family Youth Center. This is part of the Mission Appeals organized by the Mission Office of the Archdiocese of LA. Thanks to these appeals, our organization has received many generous gifts. We are deeply grateful for all the support we have received. Thank you so much!
Why work on Sundays? Normal people would not, but we are not "normal" people; we love our mission and the opportunity to serve our children. This is the only chance during the week that we have the opportunity to work with emails, administration, e-news, and more! This is why it makes sense to work on Sundays.God has blessed us with many gifts, and we are here to share those gifts with our children, young people and you! Thank you for being part of our Salesian Family!
If you would like to support our mission at Camp Salesian, please consider donating to our organization!
God bless!
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