Focus Forward Magazine, 3rd Edition

FOCUS FORWARD STORIES OF HOPE

the magazine

INTERNATIONAL

HIP HOP STAR

FASHAWN TALKS FRESNO ROOTS

AND HIS PATH TO SUCCESS Also Featuring: TODD VALERI LISA CASAREZ, MSW BYRON HARWELL JOHN PORTILLO JAMI HAMEL DE LA CERDA, M.S. SpEd JOEY FUENTES FRESNO YOUTH CHOIR JOHN MARTINEZ VALERIA VERDUZCO

Presented by:

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STORIES OF HOPE the magazine

OUR FEATURED STORIES

Magazine Committee Susan Anderson (Ret.) Fresno County Supervisor, Attorney at Law

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Todd Valeri

Coreen Campos CEO, Focus Forward

American Ambulance President and Chief Executive Officer

Susan Ryan President/CEO, Fresno County Federal Credit Union Keri Bennitt Vice-President Marketing, Fresno County Federal Credit Union

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Joseph Oaxaca Project Director ResCare Urban Youth Program

Lisa Casarez

Al Grasso Focus Forward Board Member

Angels of Grace

Creative Team: Kathy Eide Casas Magazine Writer and Editor Catherine Curry McNally Magazine Designer

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Byron Harwell

Molly Eide Marquez Freelance Editor Contributing Artists:

Community Education Specialist for National University

Kendyl Day Photographer: Cover Photo, Lisa Casarez, Fashawn, Joey Fuentes, John Portillo, Valeria Verduzco, and DLC students & Jami’s Family Joe Osejo Photographer: Jami De La Cerda, John Martinez, Todd Valeri, Byron Harwell

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John Portillo

Suzanne Bertz-Rosa Designer: Pages 4 -7, 9

Teacher/Musician

Focus Forward is pleased to present the stories in this magazine as told by the subjects. All story subjects approved the content as written. Although we believe the stories to be true and accurate, the magazine committee members, the creative and writing teams, and Focus Forward do not guarantee the accuracy or truthfulness of each story.

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STORIES OF HOPE

Table of Contents

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Jami Hamel De La Cerda CEO/Founder of Diamond Learning Center

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Joey Fuentes

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Fashawn International Hip Hop Star from Fresno, CA

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Commissioner, Fresno Housing Authority Board

Fresno County Youth Choir

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John Martinez Wrestling Coach

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Valeria Verduzco Completed CNA program, Recently hired at a local medical center

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Giving

Focus Forward programs aim to wrap our kids in success, connecting them to resources, and giving them hope beyond their current situation.

hope

Inspiring Hope

by Chance Hull Hope is a rolling blue wave That flows with the currents of the ocean endlessly.

Hope creates the Horizons of life.

Expanding in all directions filling the world with light.

Hope is a roller coaster ride. Up and down, losing sight of what’s in front of you, but in the end you get off of the ride and see all of the highs and lows you have been through.

Hope is a metaphor. You never realize how far hope has gotten you Until you compare your life to others. us Justice Camp the Juvenile is a riveting the inside of nd Chances Written from rnia, To Seco re the first in Fresno Califo s and essays that captu and poem healing, hope Chance collection of ce’s path of that steps of Chan easily forget will r these reade of Any most righteousness. years old when he wrote ion; loss; 16 death; incarcerat s and was 15 and t on life and hope most of all his ce is the pieces that reflec choices; and decisions and to educate and inspire, Changence. n ional intelli dreams. Writte ncy and emot array of an e rienc epitome of resilie expe gettable ld prepare to Readers shou iners that will leave an unfor young s of one-l emotions and s and perspective facing hearts, mind selves while mark on their to better them . adults struggling rs and life circumstances multiple barrie ces.

Second Chan say, here's To As Chance would

Chance’s book To Second Chances is available for purchase for a suggested donation of $25.

Contact Focus Forward at (559) 600-4961.

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STORIES OF HOPE

Imagine a life where gangs, domestic violence, and substance abuse are the daily norm.

Each child we serve experiences one or more of these risk factors. They’re also experiencing feelings of shame, being unwanted, and a sense of isolation.

It doesn’t need to be that way.

They have unlimited resiliency, intelligence, and untapped potential. Focus Forward, an independent 501c3 community based organization, creates pathways for youth in Fresno County systems to thrive and find success through education, support, and responsive services.

Our programs aim to wrap our kids in success, connecting them to resources and giving them hope beyond their current situation.

A Second Chance: A poet’s journey through Fresno County systems Youth Success Program Mentorship Born premature with substances in his system and hepatitis C, Chance was appropriately named—his chances of survival were bleak.

During his early months and years his mother was very ill due to hepatitis C and liver failure, and when Chance was only five years old his mother’s health failed. His father incarcerated, Chance and his youngest siblings were

left with nowhere to go. He was shuffled from one older sibling’s home to another and had to readjust with each move.

In sixth grade, Chance started spending time with people much older than him, feeling a sense of belonging that was missing at home, and he saw the things they were doing. It started with stealing a laptop from school to test his limits, turning into regular theft. He would sell the items for money to treat his family and friends to snacks, movies, and meals.

It wasn’t long before Chance found himself incarcerated.

Chance decided things needed to change as he realized that FOCUS FORWARD THE MAGAZINE

while he was incarcerated he was missing out on birthdays, graduations, and family events.

Unsure of how to proceed, he spoke with his New Horizons (a program of Mental Health Systems) clinician and she referred him to Focus Forward’s Youth Success Program.

Always a writer, Chance turned to journaling to express his feelings. His Focus Forward mentor, impressed by the body of work Chance had amassed, suggested that he look into publishing a book of poetry.

To Second Chances became a way to take his experience and share it with others, inspiring hope in youth who have found themselves in similar situations.

While Chance still faces many of these challenges, Focus Forward continues to meet him where he is on his journey. He now can list graduating from high school and publishing a book as two successes, and is taking things day by day. When the time is right he would like to become a motivational speaker to reach at-risk youth, and Focus Forward will be alongside to help him reach those goals when he is ready.

“

My Mentor helps me by staying on me, helps me do good, and most importantly keeps me organized. I have actually been able to voice my feelings instead of always holding them inside.

”

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• Free job training with connections to employment upon completion • Life skills development courses • Tutoring and GED preparation • Community service opportunities • Mentorship activities • Bus tokens, gift cards, scholarships

• Resources and referrals • Case management • Advocacy • Tutoring • Arts & culture workshops and activities • Access to clothing

Interested in volunteering as a mentor? Give us a call or visit www.focusforward.org for more information.

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STORIES OF HOPE

Bright Futures Program Youth Success Program Valeria was a teen mom with a two-month old baby boy. She was living with her mother and the father of her son, and between the four of them there wasn’t enough money to go around. As a last-ditch effort to make ends meet, she made the self-admitted bad decision to steal baby clothes, landing her in Juvenile Justice Campus ( JJC). It was a decision that significantly set her high school graduation and college plans back.

However, it was during that time in JJC that Valeria was introduced to her Focus Forward social worker, Vanessa.

Vanessa connected her to the Focus Forward teen-parenting program, Bright Futures. The gap left between her WIC allotment of formula and the actual canisters necessary to feed her son closed as she became connected to more and more resources.

Her social worker did more than just help with diapers and formula. Through Focus Forward’s Youth Success program Valeria was referred to ResCare Workforce Services, helped to secure funds for childcare, and enrolled in the Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) program at Nursing Assistant Training Academy— tuition fully paid by third-party funders of Focus Forward’s Youth Success Program.

Today, Valeria has completed the CNA program and hopes to

Valeria is focusing on building a stable home and bright future for her son.

continue her nursing education, or pursue a career working with children with special needs. Her goal is to find a job and build a stable home for her son, and thanks to Focus Forward, both of these things are within reach.

Read more on Valeria in the First 5 sponsored story later in this issue.

“

I know everybody has a hard life, and it doesn’t always seem that we have enough time, or there are always problems that are holding us back—but you have to put yourself first. Time passes by, you have to pick yourself up and make a change for the ones you love.

”

Beyond the Practicum: After the required hours Volunteer, Mentor Adam is a psychology major who needed to complete his practicum. Knowing that in his future career he would like to work with adolescents and young adults, he decided to put in his required hours at Focus Forward.

He mentors youth in and out of custody six to eight hours a day, for two to three days a week. During that time he will meet with youth in custody for an hour each week, and the mentoring sessions change from one to the next. Some get help with tutoring, others with job applications. Some simply need to talk to someone without being judged. Part of his time is spent connecting youth to other services they might not be aware of.

Adam continues to volunteer and connect with youth as a mentor.

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The kids we work with— they’re kids. Somewhere along the line someone or something went wrong and these kids haven’t had the chances that other people might have. That’s where we step in—to support them and give them the chance they might not have had earlier.

”

Become a mentor by visiting www.focusforward. org/volunteer.

Though Adam met his required hours early on, he still continues to volunteer on his own because he has learned so much from the experience.

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STORIES OF HOPE

the magazine

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TALKS FRESNOSUCCESS AND HIS PATH

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BYRON HARW FRESNO YOUTH JAMI

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JOEY FUENT

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JOHN MARTI

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LISA CASAR

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TODD VALER VALERIA VERDU

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Funded

FOCUS RD FORWASuccess

Board of Directors

Susan Anderson, J.D., Acting Board Chair

Susan Ryan, President/CEO

Fresno County Federal Credit Union, Board Treasurer

Joe Olivares, MSW, Board Secretary

Morton Rosenstein, M.D.,

Board President of Focus Forward

Joseph Oaxaca, Project Director Arbor Older Youth Program, ResCare

Melissa White, J.D.,

General Counsel, Trinity Fruit Sales

Al Grasso, LCSW, Retired Clinician County of Fresno

Michael Lopez, Business Representative

Sheet Metal Workers local union district 104

Karin Chao-Bushoven,

Director of Major Gifts, Fresno Pacific University Focus Forward, Liaisons

Liaisons

RD THE MAGAZI

FOCUS FORWA

by:

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NE

t is our honor to publish this third edition of the Focus Forward Magazine. The first magazine, ‘U-Turns Allowed’ was produced in 2012 and featured stories of successful community members who had been in the juvenile justice system as minors, earlier in their lives.

That edition was so successful, the second edition was produced.

The second edition of the magazine featured stories of those who had been through the juvenile justice or foster care system, or those who currently work in the systems that serve these children.

This third edition features inspiring Stories of Hope from individuals who have overcome adversity and unique challenges. All have gone on to achieve success. Within this edition, we have included an unfolding Story of Hope; the story of young Valeria, who has been assisted immeasurably by those at Focus Forward. We hope this story of Valeria serves as a reminder of the integral role that all those at Focus Forward play.

We dedicate this edition of Focus Forward, Stories of Hope, to our Sponsors. Their support allows us to publish these life-changing stories that inspire so many and serve as a real-life example to those in the juvenile justice system.

Kirk Haynes & Cliff Downing,

A very special thank you to the Fresno County Federal Credit Union for turning our vision of this magazine into a reality.

Katherine Martindale,

With heartfelt thanks~

Division Director’s, Juvenile Justice Commitment and Probation Services (accordingly), Fresno County Probation Department Principal Analyst, Fresno County Department of Social Services

Pam Coronado,

Administrator of Court and Community Schools, Fresno County Office of Education

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to Creating Pathways Systems County for Youth in

ZCO

Susan Anderson, Focus Forward Magazine Committee Chair, and our Focus Forward Magazine & Creative Team

STORIES OF HOPE

Greetings!

T

From the CEO of Focus Forward

he magazine you’re about to read is unique in that it showcases the stories from voices that are so often stifled.

For those receiving services from Focus Forward, this magazine represents hope for youth and young adults who have been involved in juvenile justice or foster care systems. We’re all more than our current circumstances and past experiences.

This magazine and our organization, Focus Forward, have the goal of sharing the stories of our young people, each of them three-dimensional and just trying to find their path. We hope to address those stifled voices— our kids are not often heard, or are viewed only as victims or villains.

Focus Forward is a community based organization, often known as a nonprofit, committed to creating pathways to success for youth involved in or touched by Fresno County systems. We accomplish this through effective programs, services, and a strong sense of passion, commitment and unconditional support.

We meet our youth where they are—we don’t believe in a one-size-fits-all approach. Our flexibility and focus on each individual, even providing services to secondary parties, is what sets Focus Forward apart. If a client needs food for their family, we’ll find a way to meet that need.

Our dedicated staff is highly effective; they have the commitment and education to provide quality services for our youth and their families. 100% have a minimum of a bachelors degree, 75% hold a masters degree or are currently working toward that goal.

As for myself, all of my professional experience has been working with community benefit organizations. The list includes Renaissance Scholars Program at Fresno State and Resources for Independence Central Valley. I also came to Focus Forward, bringing with me a Bachelor of Arts in Nonprofit Administration and Professional Writing, as well as holding certifications in Humanics and Serving at-Risk Youth.

However, my academic background isn’t my only qualification to lead this organization.

Working with the youth served by our programs is personally gratifying— I was once in foster care myself. Being able to draw from past experiences and empowering young people, regardless of which system they are in, is what fuels me every day. This isn’t a day job. This is a life calling.

The stories in this magazine are a true testament of the power of hope, and the burdens and obstacles that people can overcome in their lives. Thank you for taking the time to read them and understand our youth a little better.

Coreen Campos, CEO Focus Forward

“

I was once in foster care myself. Being able to draw from past experiences & empowering young people, regardless of which system they are in, is what fuels me every day. This isn’t a day job.

This is a life calling.

”

Coreen Campos

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Todd Valeri American Ambulance President and Chief Executive Officer

M

eet American Ambulance President and Chief Executive Officer Todd Valeri. He is polished, professional, empathetic, sincere, well-educated, and dedicated not only to his immediate family, but to his American Ambulance family as well. To meet him, you would not guess the road he has traveled.

Todd Valeri is a survivor He was born in Leominster, Massachusetts, a small New England town that was once considered the plastics capital of the world and is home to the original pink lawn flamingo. Todd, his two older brothers and their parents were a typical middle-class family. When Todd was eight, life took an unexpected turn with a knock at the front door.

The family was solemnly greeted by a police officer who delivered the news of Todd’s father’s death.

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It would be two decades before Todd discovered his father had committed suicide.

What had been the typical family now faced the challenges of being a single-parent family. Todd’s mother somehow managed to work to support the family, go to school to improve her job skills, and be the sole parent to three boys.

While the new situation was tough, the family never went without and drew comfort from each other, as they went through this transition.

Within a couple of years his mom had remarried.

Their new stepdad was frequently in search of “better opportunities”, which resulted in a series of family relocations. From Massachusetts, they headed to Greensboro, North Carolina, where Todd entered the fourth grade during the first year of forced racial integration. He was bussed to

STORIES OF HOPE

an inner-city school where he was the only white student in the class. Looking back now, he realizes the significance of that experience and is grateful for how it has ultimately shaped his character.

At the end of Todd’s 5th grade year, the family moved again to Waynesboro, Virginia, where his half-sister was born. Within a year, the family was uprooted again, piling into the family car and heading west.

The original plan was to move to Palm Springs, but within an hour of arrival, the summer heat fueled a unanimous decision to head north. Bakersfield was next on the list of prospects, but it still wasn’t right, so up highway 99 they went, until they reached their next stop—Fresno’s Thrifty Coffee Shop at Blackstone and Ashlan. When it was time to leave, the baby started to cry, dreading another road trip. Those tears made Fresno their new home.

W ith little resources, they stayed in a tiny apartment in “Sin City”, near Fresno State. The entire family pitched in; all three boys collected glass bottles to cash-in and the two older boys got jobs washing dishes at the Thrifty Coffee Shop. Soon the family was able to move to a rental house and began to put down roots in Fresno.

By the 10th grade, Todd had been to 11 different schools. Despite that, school was the one stable element in his life, and he liked it. Yet, moving so frequently meant that Todd hadn’t had the opportunity to establish long-term friendships.

In his mid-teens, when the family made yet another move within Fresno, Todd fell in with three neighborhood guys, three musketeers who ‘took him in’. Unfortunately, their priorities were anything and everything but school, and they had a powerful negative influence. Soon, the draw of these newfound friends was greater than family.

About this time, Todd’s grandmother became terminally ill and Todd’s mom and stepdad decided to move back to Massachusetts to provide support.

Faced with a crossroads at 17, Todd had to decide either to relocate again with the family or go out on his own. He chose to drop out of high school and stay behind in Fresno.

Fate Intervened

While on his way to the funeral, Todd stopped at a 7-11 where he ran into an acquaintance he hadn’t seen for over a year. He was wearing a Jones Ambulance uniform. Todd was intrigued by the encounter and the two exchanged contact information. The next day, Todd called his friend to get more information about how to become an EMT, and that was his turning point. At 18, he had seen how the other boys had already ended up – one dead, two in trouble, and here he Sleeping in the oleanders was, washing dishes. He earned his GED and, with the help of his brother, took the With his family now back in Massachusetts, and EMT class. It was the first time in years he had being a fresh dropout, Todd was aimless. Living been serious about school, or anything really, and on friends’ couches here and there, he ultimately it felt good. He passed the test and landed a job became homeless. “There were a few weeks with Guardian Ambulance in Armona, where he when I slept on cardboard in the oleanders behind the old Mervyn’s at Blackstone and Ashlan”, he recalls. “I was cold, scared and hopeless.

Somehow, I landed a dishwashing job and was able to get a shabby apartment near work.”

stayed for two years. At 21 he applied for paramedic school, was hired by American Ambulance and he’s never left.

Valeri credits his wife Jennifer, a nurse practitioner, with showing him what hard work could produce. As an overachiever herself and someone who believed in Todd from the first moment, despite his past, she motivated him to see his potential. He went back to school at Fresno City College, with the goal of becoming an Administrator for a Convalescent Hospital, where he believed he could make a difference. ..Todd’s story is continued on page #32

One Friday evening, he and his three friends from the old neighborhood went to a party. From there, the group decided to take a late night drive to Pismo Beach. Todd decided to stay behind because he had to work early the next morning, washing dishes. Only two of the boys decided to make the trip; they were involved in an accident and one was killed.

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Lisa casarez, MSW A lways perfectly put together, just say the name,

Lisa Casarez, and images of her smiling face, her trademark blooming floral pins that accompany every piece of apparel, including her workout clothes, and her ever-present camera that captures every moment for her thousands of Facebook followers, are the images that immediately come to mind. A stark contrast to a young battered wife and mom who escaped her home with her precious babies in the middle of the night, with no shoes on her feet and fifty cents in her purse.

Each day, she rededicates her heart for Jesus and spreads His love and words through her actions, deeds and FB messages that she tirelessly composes each night. Her daily inspirational writings give hope to many.

‘As we enter into the New Year 2016, I encourage you to let go of the past. Think of how you feel after you've carried a heavy suitcase for a couple of blocks and are finally able to put it down. You're relieved, unburdened, lighter, and happier. When we put aside our emotional baggage-guilt, anxiety, worry- we benefit from the same relief. But those emotions will not leave unless we banish them from our being. The problem is, letting go of emotions and feelings is usually much harder than moving something heavy. If you truly love yourself and want to take time for yourself, you need to let go of the negativity in your life. It's nearly impossible to relax if you're always carrying around bad feelings.

My friends, I encourage you to stop yourself when you start worrying about things you can't change or have control over.

When you fret over how people perceive you and your life.

When you blame yourself for other people's problems. Call it tough love, but you have to snuff negative, counterproductive thoughts and feelings the moment that they enter into your mind, and be kind to yourself every minute of every day. Let go of wanting; cherish what you have. Let go of fear; it's a waste of faith. Let go of despair; change comes from acceptance and forgiveness. Let go of the past; the future is here---right now.

Be blessed and encouraged. The best is yet to come in.’

Story Sponsored By:

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STORIES OF HOPE

CASAS

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isa’s inspirational story of hope has not come easily. A product of the Central Valley, her family came to Del Rey from Texas. She grew up in a small farmhouse in rural Del Rey, California. From there, the family moved to Calwa, where she and her sister attended Calwa Elementary. In Lisa’s words, “We didn’t know we were poor.” They made do with what little they had. As she grew, the family moved from Calwa to the ‘north’ side of Fresno, where she eventually ended up at Hoover High School. The whole goal of graduating from high school did not center around continuing her education, it centered around Lisa getting married. College was never an option for Lisa.

She turned 18 on May 27, graduated from Hoover immediately after, and on June 27th, she was married.

She dug out the business card the police officer had given her with the Marjaree Mason Center’s number and made it to a pay phone. She called the number. With that call, she had taken the first step on her path to victory.

A young 18, she should have been having a quinceañera instead of a wedding. It had been drilled into her, since an early age, that young women got married and pleased their husbands.

They were taught to keep the house, stay pretty and remain quiet, no matter how your husband treated you. So, she did…for awhile. Yet, as the years passed, the situation worsened. Her husband was abusive, in every way. She had children and, as is so often the case, the babies just exacerbated the situation. His temper flared. The police came and went but Lisa did as she had been raised; she stayed quiet.

car, Lisa vowed then and there she would not be a victim like her friend; in fact, one day she would be victorious.

An older woman befriended Lisa. Kinship was instant, as the older woman recognized all that Lisa was trying to conceal. You see, she was living the same life of lies. They formed a bond over the best way to conceal their bruises. The woman became Lisa’s true ‘Ya-Ya’ sister and they comforted each other during this distressful time.

She and the kids settled in at the Marjaree Mason Center. Though she was 24 years old with two small children and another one on the way, their staff began to instill a feeling in Lisa that she had value, she had worth and she would make it!

One sad day, Lisa came home to a tragic message from one of the police officers who had befriended both of the ladies. Lisa’s friend had fallen victim to her husband. The very next day, Lisa’s own husband came home and the abusive routine started again. This time, instead of hiding under the bed like ‘normal’, her oldest son, who was 4, grabbed the keys, his mom’s purse and Lisa and the kids ran to the car. As the darkness of midnight enveloped them, reality hit. With fifty cents in her purse, a bathrobe on her back, no shoes on her feet and two young children in the

The first stop was the hospital, where an ‘angel’ of a nurse took Lisa’s face in her hands, looked her in the eyes and told her she was going to be okay. She told her she was strong. She told her she was smart. She told her she was beautiful and that God would get her over this. Those messages spoke to Lisa’s heart, and in that moment in time, it made her feel like there was a plan for her life.

Angels of Grace

Over the last decade, 302 children have been adopted through Angels of Grace and now have forever families.

Fresno State. She was encouraged to register, was accepted, and became a hard working student. Kids, homework, work, and challenges abounded, but she persevered. And then, a single incidence occurred that would change their fate forever.

The kids were outside playing while Lisa was doing her homework. Her daughter got hit in the head and needed stitches. She packed up all three kids and headed to the ER. Dr. Gregory Watts walked in and stitched her up, proclaiming her, “As good as new.” Seeing her backpack, Dr. Watts asked Lisa if she was going to college. She said yes and gave him a bit of her background.

He offered strong encouragement and put her in touch with his wife. With that single occurrence, their lives would all shift. ...Lisa’s story is continued on page #32

Lisa was intrigued by a commercial she had seen for Fresno City College. She called the number and with the kids in tow, she went to see Mr. Perkins, the counselor. He was instrumental in encouraging her to enroll. She attended classes, with the kids, and soon other students began helping them out. Though Lisa was still filled with doubt, it was clear to her instructors that she was destined for something special. She graduated with honors, got a job as a student assistant and they moved into affordable housing. She believed she had reached her peak, but in reality, she was just beginning her ascent.

Then came the unexpected opportunity for

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“There’s so much in life you can achieve. Anything is possible and no matter what background you come from or what you see out your window, you can do anything that you put your mind to.”

Byron Harwell

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hose are much more than just inspirational words from Byron Harwell. This Masters Candidate for Student Affairs and College Counseling, doesn’t just talk the talk—this polished professional has walked the plank…of neglect, shame, homelessness and, finally, of challenges overcome.

As kids, the house of cards Byron and his brother shared was so flimsy, there was no way to prevent the walls from falling down and drifting aimlessly away, taking the boys with them on a path to nowhere.

Having no shelter and no foundation, Byron Harwell and his brother Brent, spent their first years being dragged around by their mom, as an unwanted appendage, simply part of the pack of nine kids she had given birth to. Apartments, hotels, welfare lines, back seats of cars, other peoples’ couches, the list of places the boys called, ‘home’ went on and on. While other children their age were in school, education for her kids was not a priority for their mom. She spent most of her time at the racetrack, trying to get the ponies to pony up some winnings for her.

Some days were high and some days were low, but despite the see-saw of ups and downs, the one constant was that the mom couldn’t care for the boys. They spent most of their childhood years playing video games, building sand castles on the beach and playing in the back of the car, whenever they actually had a car. While other kids may have been envious of their freedom and lack of structure and education, the reality was that this was just another piece of the fabric of the tragic childhood they were living. Just imagine being the age of a typical fifth grader, yet having no idea how to read, write, spell or solve a math problem.

There was nothing typical about that as a childhood model for success.

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STORIES OF HOPE

Story Sponsored By:

A house

of Cards Their seven older siblings were scattered, and Byron and Brent swung back and forth like a pendulum with their mom. Their dad sent money when he could, but he was in Indiana and they were in California. Joe, their oldest brother, stepped in and stepped up and did his best to care for the boys; finally enrolling them in school but, he had his own family. As was to be expected, with the boys so far behind in their grade levels, they needed more attention than he could give. With a heavy heart, Joe bundled them up, took them to the local police station and signed them over to the Foster Care system in Whittier.

It was a double-edged sword, as the foster parents were willing to take both of the boys, but the worst was yet to come.

They attended school regularly, but Byron recalls this story of sixth grade with perfect clarity. “I’m in a classroom and the teacher told me to read out loud and I was like, man, I don’t know how to read. I tried sounding it out but it just wasn’t happening. The kids were laughing at me. They probably didn’t know what was going on, but it hurt just the same.”

Through no fault of their own, life continued to deal them blows; slapping them down at the times when they were just beginning to gain confidence and strength.

It was tough because as hard as they were working, they were constantly trying to catch up from years past. They remained below average that first year of high school. Brent attended a special program but Byron refused. He wanted to stay in the regular classes and he suffered for it that first year. But, he endured. They settled in and applied themselves. It wasn’t easy, but nothing in their young lives was. Their brother was 20 years older and had four kids of his own, but Byron and Brent worked tirelessly, so they could stay together. They made up courses they were lacking, talked to counselors and slowly but surely were passing classes with high GPAs. Soon they were ready to take the SAT. They wanted to graduate from high school and passionately wanted to attend college. The naysayers said it couldn’t be done, but the boys knew they had the tenacity and stamina to do it, and they did!

They scored high enough on the SAT and were both accepted into Fresno State through the Renaissance Program. It was hard that first year of transition. Byron felt like he didn’t belong, like

everyone was smarter than he was. Byron credits Kizzy Lopez, the Renaissance Scholars Program Coordinator, with literally saving him. “She talked me through it – mentored me, connected me with those who helped me psychologically, and personally. It was so important to have someone there to guide me and be there for me, and most important, to hold me accountable. I NEVER wanted to let Kizzy down.”

The day Byron and Brent graduated from college, their entire family came from the four winds to cheer them on. Walking across that stage, his hand clasped with his brother’s, they knew they had beat the statistics.

Ingrained in Byron is the spirit of giving back, of providing support to others. Having learned from his own experiences, he now helps others navigate. Byron currently holds the position of community education specialist for National University.

Life isn’t about the hand you’re dealt, it’s about how

Even though the boys were so far behind in school, the brothers took to the consistency of attending school; something they had never experienced. They participated in activities and sports and it was refreshing for them to be involved with school. But, in the home, it was rocky. The foster dad erroneously, but forcefully, had accused Brent of stealing money. As a result, the boys left the foster home, and went back to live with their brother Joe.

you play the hand, and Byron and Brent are all in.

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15

“Last year was my 30th high school reunion.

I was speaking with a guy I had not seen since high school. We were catching up with each others lives when he said,

John Portillo

‘I hope you don't take offense to this, but you didn't turn out anything like I thought you would.’

I actually wasn’t offended at all. In fact, I completely understood what he meant. Knowing all the obstacles I had faced, including the self-made ones, I really HAVE come a long way from where I started. I think it was the unexplainable belief I held, that no matter what I was facing, I knew there was going to be something better for me.”

J

John grew up in an unsettled and chaotic family dynamic; spending most of his time with his devoted dad. His mom suffered from mental health issues and from a young age, John was the target of her psychological abuse. She had difficulty getting along with others and his parents relationship was volatile, at best. Mom had an inability to ever be satisfied, so they were constantly on the move, looking for the next opportunity. Music became an immediate escape for John. Looking back now, he fondly remembers pretending to be Johnny Cash, singing Folsom Prison Blues with one of those little toy plastic guitars. His dad would take the lamp shade off of a table lamp and hold it at an angle as to make it a spot light.

John reminisced, “There in the middle of the front room at the ripe ol’ age of 4, I’d be singing about life in prison.” He continued, “I think it was, and is, music that gives me that belief that there was always something better.”

Music was a salvation of sorts, as he fought his way through a tumultuous young life.

Since the family was constantly moving, he would attend two or three different schools in one year, and at one point, he attended the same school three different times. John believes that’s where a lot of his own restlessness was born. He was more social, than academic, as evidenced when he made it all the way through elementary school, before it was discovered that he couldn’t read.

He talked a good game through McLane High School, taking every elective, but successfully avoiding the core classes such as English and Biology, necessary to graduate; an ironic situation for someone who would ultimately become a successful teacher. He finally finished high school, spending the last four months homeless and, in his words, being a “knucklehead.” Even though he had the means for only one meal per day to fuel him, his attitude led him to believe that he knew everything he needed to know.

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STORIES OF HOPE

His life unfolded, like a “country song” and, he took hard but simple jobs, like dishwashing. When he found himself in a challenging situation, he used his gift of persuasion to talk himself out. From dishwashing, he learned how to repair air conditioners, eventually becoming a sort of jack of all trades, master of none. He had a good worth ethic though, learned from his unwavering dad. He went to college briefly, had a son and daughter, got married and ‘unmarried’, and then married his amazing wife Jill. The nagging restlessness continued. He went to work for a medical equipment company as a manager, but, something inside still churned.

One morning, he woke up and his legs were so swollen he couldn’t walk. He had been experiencing kidney issues, but he shoved those issues aside, remaining, instead, in denial. He headed into work and they sent him home. That evening, his kidneys failed. He could no longer walk or work and he experienced a tumultuous period. He started dialysis, was placed on the transplant list, and enrolled in city college. He had been there earlier in his life but by now he was 30 years old and determined to be guided by his newly found internal motivation. He took the hardest classes he could, and earned a spot on the Dean’s List, where he stayed the entire time. He graduated with the highest honors and was nominated for the medallion in Social Science/Humanities. Still undergoing dialysis, he rose to the challenges, got his AA and transferred to Fresno State. From there, he went to Fresno Pacific University where he now craved the highest caliber education. He was exhausted, but persevered. He entered the credential program. During his last semester at FPU, he got the go-ahead for the transplant. He was 6’4, weighed 350 pounds, and was often so exhausted he would snore during class. He underwent the transplant and entered the teaching program, where he got halfway, but a series of life events forced him to withdraw and restart. Upon his completion in 2005, he was hired in Visalia to teach English, ironically the very class he had not taken in high school. He had the second kidney transplant shortly thereafter.

In a twist of love and fate, John’s wife was his kidney donor, and was indeed the perfect match for him, in all ways. Yet, following this transplant, he went through a clinical depression. It was during this time that he realized that teaching wasn’t where he wanted to be. As John explains, “As naïve and cliché as this sounds, I wanted education to be life changing for the kids I was

working with. I wanted to make an impact and I didn’t feel like that’s what I was doing. It was just too in the box.”

So he did what he knew… he rerouted himself.

He and his wife got jobs together working for Covered California and they moved from Visalia to Fresno. Yet, the restlessness remained. His mentor from Fresno Pacific mentioned the ACEL Charter School and he was immediately intrigued. Maybe this was finally the opportunity where he could make a difference, and indeed it was. He was teaching grades 9-12, was able to design the classes, and he loved it. Though he was recruited for other opportunities, he stayed because of the freedom and opportunity to truly make a difference for these kids.

And then… the school closed.

Fate intervened while networking with the Workforce Connection. They offered him an opportunity to be a part of their team, where he happily remains today. Having recently celebrated his 50th birthday, John Portillo is now working with the Workforce Connection and the very kids, like him, who only eat one meal a day. He’s walked their walk and knows there is something better. He yearns to share that knowledge and experience with these young adults, wanting them to learn the necessary skills, so critical for success.

John Portillo has experienced a million different lifetimes within his own life. Though he’s the first to tell you he’s still a work in progress, he’s actually a continuing progression of success.

Catch him in a reflective moment and he will share that he believes his unique life experiences of the good, the bad and the ugly, have been leading him to where he is today; a credentialed teacher that is a workshop facilitator for those experiencing challenges on their path to success. He’ll also tell you that music continues to be a large part of his life. Through the ups and downs, he’s used music as a means of healing and hope, although he no longer needs the glow of a shadeless lamp for a spotlight when he performs. Recently, he started performing “Retro Acoustic” and he hopes to continue. He said, “For me, Retro Acoustic is stripping away all the excess, it’s just me, my

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acoustic guitar, and a microphone singing James Taylor or Jim Croce. Performing that way seems very natural for me...no pretense just making a real and honest connection with the audience. Not to mention the excitement I get when the room sings along with me. Not to get philosophical, but I think performing is a way of connecting to the childhood I longed for. My father loved me immensely and showed it. My mother couldn’t, so it’s through performing music that I am allowed to be real and honest...vulnerable....and get love, affection, and praise back.”

Bravo John Portillo, ENCORE PLEASE. Story Sponsored By:

17

Jami Hamel De La Cerda

Whenever you find yourself doubting how far you can go, just remember how far you have come. Remember everything you have faced, all the battles you have won and all the fears you have overcome.

M.S. SpEd

Author Unknown

To know Jami Hamel De La Cerda is to Know InspirationTo Feel MotivatedTo Share her Contagious TenacityTo Believe in Yourself as she believes in all of the opportunities that have come her way… opportunities that most people would label as obstacles.

B

Born into a Canadian family with a neglectful and preoccupied dad, Jami learned early on to not let others run her over. The middle child with two brothers, she was closest to her beautiful mom; whose life would come to a tragic self-imposed end while Jami was a young woman. Though Jami has achieved milestone after milestone, a day never passes that she doesn’t think of her mom with longing, love and gratefulness for shaping her into the strong, capable and compassionate woman she has become.

Jami knew she was destined to help others. One conversation with her and it’s immediately clear she has a benevolent yet fierce character ingrained in her that propels her toward the success of others, no matter what form that success takes.

It was apparent early on that Jami Hamel De La Cerda would lead by example.

18

STORIES OF HOPE

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She took a risk and founded and opened Fresno’s Diamond Learning Center A After high school, she was recruited by top universities in Arizona and California, ultimately selecting Fresno State, a choice that would forever shape her destiny. Jami was driven to become a special education teacher, to enable her to personally ensure that each of her students could learn to be the very best that their own abilities would allow. It was during her time at Fresno State when she learned that her mom’s unrelenting depression and sadness had finally overwhelmed her to the point where she had quietly taken her own life. While her mom’s life journey had ended, Jami’s journey would now continue with the added dimension of her mother’s depth of pain etched into her heart.

Jami went on to complete her education. She earned her teaching credential as well as her master’s degree, all while working continuously to fill a yearning that still existed. Her heart and mind continued to drive her toward a segment in our midst that was and is, frequently overlooked; the adult population of those with developmental disabilities. Jami was driven to encourage those around her to fully accept and embrace those with limited abilities, unaware that within her own lifetime, her impetus for this drive would become an intimate part of her own life. She felt most complete when those with whom she was working achieved a success of their very own.

For some, it could be as ‘small’ a success as making eye contact with her, but in that student’s world, and in Jami’s, it was monumental and cause for celebration. L.I.F.E. was taking shape!

She forged on. She took a risk and founded and opened Fresno’s Diamond Learning Center, an innovative learning center dedicated to those from 18-65 with developmental disabilities.

Jami told them that those tears needed to be happy tears ----Elijah was a joy, her joy, and a child to be celebrated! Every milestone would be a cause for celebration, whether it would be Elijah’s bond with his brothers or his modeling debut on the cover of the national Toys R Us publication with Eva Longoria, a celebrity he easily upstaged with his charm and charisma.

Jami has gone on to speak at national and international conferences on the importance of professionalism, Down Syndrome, achieving success, family life as a now-single mom, and so much more! She is a PT Professor at Fresno State and has been recognized with numerous awards for her advocacy and professionalism, including recently being honored with the prestigious Top Ten Top Ten Professional Women and Leading Business Award. There is no doubt that her greatest rewards are always from her three sons, her 3 Kings as they are lovingly referred to, and all those at Diamond Learning Center. Thanks to a great team at Diamond Learning Center, they are able to celebrate the daily success of their students in their innovative campus setting. This year marks the 10th Anniversary of Diamond Learning Center and as another cause for excitement, Jami’s L.I.F.E. – Learning Is For Everyone, has now become a pilot for success for all those who face obstacles, or as Jami believes…opportunities!

Jami Writes...

“We are living in a very exciting time Our loved ones with special needs are living longer.

Our own voices have changed from seeking tolerance to empowering acceptance.

Our communities are extending acceptance and are benefiting from their growth.

As a world, we have a long way to go.

As parents we are more involved, we value ourselves as the first educator and number one resource for our children as they grow and develop into adults. we have a voice and we have a vision.”

There’s just no stopping her!

Jami’s Journey will be captured upon completion of her autobiography.

L.I.F.E. Was Born She married and had her first-born son, Isaiah.

Shortly after, she gave birth to twin boys, Elijah and Samuel, now ten years old. She sensed more than heard, the hush that fell throughout the delivery room when the nurses swaddled Elijah and handed him to her. The nurses’ eyes glistened with tears as they watched her with her second born twin, who had Down syndrome.

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19

FA•SHAWN

Even the sound of his name is captivating!

This international hip-hop star plays to sold out audiences across America and the world. His soulful lyrics transcend geography, age and culture. But, life wasn’t always so harmonious for this rap maverick from Fresno.

U

ntil you’ve walked in someone else’s shoes, you just never know what they’ve been through. Simply because someone has achieved fame, fortune and celebrity status, doesn’t mean their life has been easy, normal or privileged.

Even a celebrity like FASHAWN has slayed more than his share of demons.

Growing up as Santiago Leyva in rough Fresno neighborhoods, he was born into the core of a tough environment. In young Santiago’s mind, your dad was supposed to be a super hero and your mom was supposed to be nurturing and caring. In reality, his dad was in jail and his mom belonged to the streets, owned by her drug addiction.

His ethnicity was a contrast of cultures; his dad of Mexican American heritage and his mom African American. Cultures dissimilar but with a thread of commonality woven into them – a thread of strength, which would ultimately prove to be the tie that bound Santiago to composing his lyrics.

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STORIES OF HOPE

Shackled with an unsettling contrast of struggles and dreams, young Santiago and his siblings were on their own by the time he turned eight years old. Their ‘homes’ included multiple foster home addresses, the Poverello House, the Marjaree Mason and Craycroft Centers and a myriad of group homes. Even at a young age, Santiago saw things that he now readily admits he never should have seen. His young life was a steady stream of packing and unpacking his meager belongings, frequent visits from social workers and a stream of violence his eyes and mind should not have had to view or process.

As he grew, he began to wonder if he would ever see adulthood or if the streets would take him out.

At 9, his Uncle Roy stepped in and took the kids.

Roy’s heart was big enough to raise Santiago and his siblings as his own. It wasn’t easy, but nothing in Santiago’s young life had been even close to easy, normal or traditional. Though his home life

“The words in my head saved me. They rejuvenated me. As dark as those days were, I began to think in the back of my head that it was going to get better and I hung onto that.

I started to believe that God wouldn’t give me anything I couldn’t overcome.”

was better, his attitude and actions weren’t.

Santiago had learned to survive during dark days and for the next few years, that’s what he did—he survived within a dark sphere.

When he turned twelve, he brought his brain and mind into focus. He was able to take his jagged perception of the world, and turn it into words.

That tumbleweed of words twirled in his mind until he worked it into what would eventually emerge as lyrics. He was transitioning into FASHAWN. In FASHAWN’s words, “The words in my head saved me. They rejuvenated me. As dark as those days were, I began to think in the back of my head that it was going to get better and I hung onto that. I started to believe that God wouldn’t give me anything I couldn’t overcome.” That faith became embedded in FASHAWN, though he wouldn’t draw on it until much later in his life.

Make better decisions, my young brothers and sisters.

You can be so much more than what you think you are.

You can change somebody’s life just by changing your own.

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21

W hen Santiago turned 18, his uncle said, “Enough.” He was done. Uncle Roy bought a one bedroom and told them all to figure out the world. Ready or not, it was time for Santiago to grow up. He struggled, but when people told him he wasn’t going to be anything, he turned a deaf ear to that kind of noise.

He was starting to be noticed. His talent was taking him to different places, in his mind and in his life. He was now FASHAWN, and FASHAWN was brimming with raw talent, charisma, and an undying hunger.

He was called, “the breath of fresh air that hip-hop had been waiting for,” and he was.

In 2008, he got the break he had ben working for and released his BOY MEETS WORLD album. People around the world could relate to his Life as a Shorty, and that was only the beginning. Now, The Ecology is out and it’s an over the top hit.

Yet, as far as he’s come, the image of the lifestyle that he didn’t want remains embedded in his mind.

He has only to relive the image he saw of the guy who lived across the street from him. They were the same age, but that guy is homeless now.

Santiago Leyva knew with certainty that he was either going to be A or B – nothing in between. He believed he could be the headliner in his own movie, and FASHAWN is that headliner. The belief has served him well.

Now FASHAWN wants to inspire the kids from his town. Kids who are in the same situation- he knows he’s not the only kid who grew up like he did. He’s just the only one who told it through his music for the world to hear.

“All I can Give you is my Truth” FASHAWN wants to send this message directly to the kids at the Juvenile Justice Campus… “When you get out, make more positive decisions. While you’ve got that time sittin’ on right now, think about the decision you made prior that got you into that situation. Make better decisions, my young brothers and sisters. You can be so much more than what you think you are. You can change somebody’s life just by changing your own. Some people don’t read the Bible, some don’t go to school, they don’t know about heroes and characters in the Bible, we’re the only thing they’ve got for hope and inspiration and encouragement. You are that powerful. You are that intelligent. Acknowledge it. Be confident in yourself.”

In Fashawn’s Words...

“Thought I would never see 21 years old Because of my situation at hand…but I Never let that stop me or hold me back Really roped my way out of the hood – out of the ghetto…

Found a culture called hip-hop Luckily I found some positives Luckily I was blessed with a talent” 22

STORIES OF HOPE

ON HIS SONG,

Life as a Shorty…

“I was hanging out with the wrong kids getting in fights – That song takes me back to the elementary years when I didn’t have confidence and wasn’t sure of myself – wasn’t sure what I wanted to do in life – As the song progresses, it takes you along to when when I get older, my first love and when I get cheated on for the first time – Takes you to the elementary playground –one aspect of life – if you listen to the tone of the record, listen closely to the lyrics, that song makes everyone smile and happy when you hear it.”

“I hope the whole world gets that.”

Life as a Shorty…

[Verse 1-Fashawn] Remember, livin' in a trailer Cookin' dinner out a crockpot or we would microwave it Basic, television same seven stations On a twelve-inch, I had to watch cable at the neighbors Didn't know how broke we was 'til I got older Never knew I had a father until he showed up Out the blue, tryin' to get back wit mama Stepdad walks in, now here comes the drama

Had a couple of em, to be honest Like William, Scott, they would always take me shoppin' Ralphie and Mark, they would take me to the doctor I call em all Daddy even though they didn't have me Kids used to make fun of my clothes 'til one of em got punched in the nose Kinda like I was forced to be tough Life as a shorty shouldn't be so rough, but hey...

Hear more at: www.fashawn.ca/#the-ecology

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23

Joey Fuentes

“W

hen I was younger, I’d read stories about people who had grown up and become successful. Every once in a while, I’d think that maybe I could grow up and be like them. Then I’d get into trouble again and didn’t really think about it much…until now.”

24

Joey Fuentes is a success.

Words he never believed could be used to describe him. A member of the Fresno Housing Authority’s Board of Commissioners, he is committed to his family, his community and staying drug free.

It took Joey Fuentes nearly half of his lifetime to decide that he no longer wanted to be in trouble. Once he made that decision, he’s never turned back.

STORIES OF HOPE

“Enough.”

Joey with his wife, Norma, and their 5 children

He was, as Joey describes, “one of those kids

who was always in trouble.” The only child in his family of five who rebelled, he did it often and without any logical explanation. His parents provided for the family and his dad worked hard.

What Happened?

As a kid, Joey always thought he knew best, despite time after time, ending up in the old juvenile hall. He yearned for an “adventurous” life. Too often that adventure included drugs, fighting and stealing. It was the drugs that really took him over. Despite having a solid family, he became tied to the gang lifestyle. Those ties began to strangle him. He didn’t recognize that being bound to the gang would cut off his circulation.

Already sporting an attitude, the drug use combined with his gang ‘family,’ perpetuated his downward spiral. He spent most of his teen years in and out of juvenile hall. “It was like I was stuck in a revolving door,” he explained. Round and round he went…in and out and in and out until the judge finally said, “Enough.” The revolving door stopped and when it opened, it opened straight into the CYA.

He was 30 years old when he walked out of the prison’s doors and he knew he wasn’t going back. He’d finally had enough.

He was ready for change. the question of, ‘Did he really want to continue this lifestyle and end up like those other inmates?’ Older, seasoned, but still with the same mind set Joey had while spinning in and out of Juvenile Hall’s revolving door years ago. Joey’s answer was the same answer the judge had uttered when he sentenced Joey to the CYA, and that answer was one word, “Enough.” He was 30 years old when he walked out of the prison’s doors and he knew he wasn’t going back. He’d finally had enough. He was ready for change.

They are parents to five children, two girls and three boys. They take their parenting duties seriously. Joey is near completion of his education to become a counselor, focusing on kids in gangs and changing their lifestyle, just as he has done. Joey is an honors student and has maintained his position on the Dean’s List every semester. He is a trainer and mentor to the kids at Fresno’s Main Event boxing, and serves as a Commissioner on the Fresno Housing Authority’s Board.

As with anything, change didn’t come easy. Many times the best things in life are not easy, but are so worthwhile. Joey credits his wife Norma, with being his partner and coach along this journey to success.

“My wife and God have put me on the right path.

Together I will stay on that path,” emphasized Joey Fuentes.

It’s been 20 years since they first got together and they’ve faced serious obstacles. Norma had her own battle with drug abuse but she conquered her battle successfully and served as inspiration to Joey. She is currently a candidate for her master’s degree at Fresno State.

He feels content and settled, like never before. He is now one of those success stories that others read about.

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Gangs were prevalent inside those walls and he sided with one over another. His rebellious attitude increased. While in CYA, he, ‘caught a case’ and graduated to the state prison at Tracy.

This was not the graduation his parents ever envisioned when their son was born into this traditional Selma family. From Tracy, he went to Corcoran and from there, his next residence was at the California Correctional Institution at Tehachapi. It was there that Joey noticed the common thread woven into the inmate population was that the people he was dealing with, “were older.” In Joey’s mind this prompted

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25

Fresno County

Youth choir

T

he harmonic sounds of this diverse choir carries listeners to a place where most people didn’t even know music could take them.

Officially, the Fresno County Youth Choir follows their mission of creating multicultural unity through music that fills the heart, lifts the soul and changes lives.

Unofficially, this group reaches out and touches souls through their sounds. Coming “Home” takes on new meaning when you hear their lyrical magic.

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STORIES OF HOPE

Story Sponsored By:

Through their music, this remarkable group of young adults makes a commitment of putting people first. This Choir is about so much more than singing. It’s truly performing with a purpose – a meaningful mission that takes devotion, energy, time and talent. Summer afternoons and evenings are spent in hour-after-hour of daily rehearsals, culminating with bringing joy and performances to unlikely audiences, such as the homeless, foster youth, those in retirement communities and residents of convalescent hospitals.

As the sounds transcend, the joy and emotion is palpable.

Youth Choir Director Aaron Bryan shared, “There is no better joy than seeing the impact that a performance has, not only on our audience, but on the singers themselves.” He continued, “What I see happening is these kids’ eyes being opened to the world around them – seeing the needs around them that they may not have even known existed

“Home”

Lyrics by Phillip Phillips

before. To see them realize that they can take their talent and passion and give back to their community through that talent and passion, is humbling and inspirational. Watching the emotional connections they make during a performance and then seeing them come back on their own, to serve at Poverello or to spontaneously organize a small group of friends to sing at Valley Children’s Hospital – it simply doesn’t get any better than that.”

“They inspire me,” he said.

Filling The Heart

Hold on to me as we go As we roll down this unfamiliar road And although this wave (wave) is stringing us along

Lifting the Soul

Just know you’re not alone ‘Cause I’m gonna make this place your home

Changing Lives…

With the Musical Sounds of hope

Bryan, the Visual Performing Arts Consultant for the Fresno County Office of Education, heads up the Choir and loves every minute. After teaching full-time for 13 years, he was offered this opportunity to train the arts teachers and to serve as the Director of the Fresno County Youth Choir. In Aaron Bryan’s words, “There is nothing better.”

Choir performers are selected from a diverse pool of applicants; many times their own paths would never cross. About 60 – 70% of the applicants are high school students and 30% are college students. Reflecting the ethnic and social diversity of the Valley, students in the Fresno County Youth Choir come from the most affluent communities and the smallest rural communities with the highest poverty rates. Race, ethnicity, culture, economic diversity, students who have very much and students who have been homeless… all sharing a common thread of musical passion.

Music does not acknowledge the Choir members’ socio-economic or geographic situations. It only recognizes their clear voices that are interwoven into the sounds of perfect harmony.

Musical ability plays a role in the selection of a choir participant, but a student’s heart and passion play an even larger part. As the Director emphasized, “We are not only looking for great singers, but great people. We definitely work hard on notes and production, but the ultimate goal is to meet the mission.”

Each summer, the Choir works around a particular theme; including homelessness, poverty, freedom, foster care in America and racism in the 21st Century. Utilizing that theme,

Settle down, it’ll all be clear Don’t pay no mind to the demons They fill you with fear The trouble – it might drag you down If you get lost, you can always be found Just know you’re not alone ‘Cause I’m gonna make this place your home Settle down, it’ll all be clear Don’t pay no mind to the demons They fill you with fear The trouble it might drag you down If you get lost, you can always be found Just know you’re not alone ‘Cause I’m gonna make this place your home

they compose and produce original and traditional music. It is not for the faint of heart.

This is the real world, encompassed in music.

The summer begins with a retreat that allows members to get together and form their own musical family. They get to know each other on common ground. Then they go for a month straight with rehearsals every weeknight for three hours a night. While perfecting their performance, they share how they feel, how they put people first, how they are using the arts, in this case, music, as the means to reach people.

From there, the rest is musical history.

One particular week during the 2015 season brought 15 performances in four days all throughout Fresno County. One blazing-hot summer day began with a performance at the Poverello House with the next stop at Cart Hop

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on the outdoor Fulton Mall during the lunch hour’s 108-degree heat. After, they headed out to Valley Children’s Hospital, where they performed for the kids and the staff, then to the Ronald McDonald house and ended out at River Park’s Farmers Market where it was still 110 degrees. “We never had one complaint,” Aaron said. “That’s exactly why these kids have a passionate heart for music.”

Each summer concludes with the “Home” concert at Fresno City College where the Old Administration building overflows with an audience eager to hear and feel the musical selections.

Next year, the Choir will be looking for a larger venue.

27

John Martinez “Never Ever Give Up”…

Championship Wrestling Coach John Martinez’s winning words

F

ocus Forward magazine readers first met John Martinez when his twin brother Joe, was featured in the 2013 edition of the Focus Forward, ‘Stories of Hope’ series.

Out of all of the Martinez kids, 13 siblings strong, twins John and Joe are the only ones who have risen to the challenges placed in their paths.

Each day, to this day, they continue to pay it forward. Joe, through his work as an advocate for the homeless and foster youth, and John, helping low-income kids achieve their dreams, in inspirational ways that others don’t even consider.

The Martinez twins were first placed into foster care at the tender age of five. There were just too many kids in the family. Dad left home, leaving mom with the responsibilities for all the children.

It was simply too much. One of the siblings got into trouble, and as a result, the police came to the house. The officer immediately noticed there was no electricity in the house and there was little to no food, as well. This officer could not and would not leave the children in that atmosphere.

The five youngest children, who were all under age 10, were taken out of the home for their own safety; including twins John and Joe.

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The first stop for the twins was the hospital for a thorough examination. Imagine how scary it would be for two 5-year old kids, who have been taken from the only home they’ve ever known, and are now left shivering in the sterile exam room of a hospital. While the staff there did the best they could to comfort them, it was an experience they still remember, all these years later.

The moment they were finished at the hospital, the boys were placed into an emergency foster home. This was the 70s, and the foster care system was already overloaded. The one saving grace was that the boys were kept together, and remained together, as they were moved from foster home to foster home. They eventually

STORIES OF HOPE

landed in a home with foster parents, Bob and Janet, who really did do their best with the boys.

The twin’s biological mother would keep in touch from time to time, promising to come and take the boys for a visit. A heartbreaking scenario, they would pack their little suitcase, and wait, wait, wait for their mom to keep her empty promise of picking them up for a visit. Two little boys waiting for their mom, eager with the anticipation of seeing her, excitedly expecting visits that simply never materialized. The unpacking was even worse. Janet’s heart broke a little more each time she watched the twins unpack; the heartbreaking reality running down their cheeks.

Story Sponsored By:

Diamond Learning Center, Inc. Learning is for Everyone!

A heartbreaking scenario, they would pack their little suitcase, and wait, wait, wait for their mom to keep her empty promise of picking them up for a visit.

Time passed and the boys had just enrolled in fifth grade, when they joined the Cross Country and Track teams. The Martinez boys were not just fast, they were lightning fast. So fast, that in the sixth grade, John Martinez was the fastest runner in the entire Clovis Unified School District. Though small in stature, he was a powerhouse when he ran. With each stride, his feet barely touched the ground and his mind and heart soared with the freedom. In 8th grade, he ran a 4:40 mile and won the Cross Country Championship for his middle school, going on to run in the Junior Olympics.

While he was known as having the Midas touch on the track, John was facing a big challenge at home. Their foster dad had left his job and they were forced to move to a smaller house; a house that CPS deemed too small for Bob and Janet, their two biological kids, and John and Joe. As a result, the boys, now 13, were uprooted and taken to a foster home in the middle of rural Fowler. Gone was their connection to school, friends, sports and their neighborhood; replaced with a strange home with no TV, no radio and instructions from the new foster parents to have no communication with Bob and Janet. It was a sad and somber time.

The boys decided not to heed the warnings from the new foster parents and reached out to Bob and Janet, who could not bear how miserable the boys were. Finally, new arrangements were made and they came and picked up the boys! The reunion was awesome!

High school began and during his years at Clovis High, John made the switch from cross-country to wrestling. This pint-sized powerhouse was unstoppable on the wrestling mat. He won the Gold Medal for wrestling and successfully

wrestled his way all through his high school years, capping off his senior year with winning the NYL, Divisional, and the Valley Championships. He was a champion not just in his sport, but with his winning attitude, a fact undisputed by every coach he wrestled for. To this day, he pays forward that same winning attitude as he coaches youth wrestling.

John believes it was this tenacity and spirit of champion that led him to ultimately work with traditionally overlooked and underserved kids.

He is a unique father figure to many. John Martinez sees a need, and then takes action.

During his tenure as the wrestling coach at a local Elementary School in Clovis Unified, where he coached for many years, one of his newest recruits was a young lady who weighed in at a sturdy 57 pounds. Martinez discovered she was in desperate need of shoes. After a sleepless night, he decided to replace her wrestling and tennis shoes. Martinez shared this holiday giving story with his friends on Facebook. As a result, his friends at Howe Electric gave him a check to do something special for this young student.

Shortly afterward, a leader with California–USA Wrestling told Martinez he wanted to help too, and he did! This student was one of only two girls on the wrestling team. It was her first year in wrestling and she was a champion on the mat!

Though talent and strength really made the difference, she said it was her new shoes that gave her the confidence.

Having raised his own daughter as a single dad, John was determined that neither his child nor his students would ever have to endure the uncertainty that he and his own brother did.

John Martinez is a shining example of overcoming and coming out on top, in true championship style.

Though John Martinez’s portfolio may not be filled with stocks, bonds and IRAs, Martinez is making the best, most rewarding investment of all. He is, “Investing in lives,” and there’s nothing more fulfilling than that.

Thank you, Coach— you really are a Gold Medal Champ!

investing in Lives

‘A coach like no other is how John Martinez is known in wrestling and school circles.’

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Valeria Verduzco Valeria Verduzco is an emerging story of hope. She has endured and conquered much in her young life. As Valeria works toward continued success, her life is finally unfolding in a positive direction.

Story Sponsored By:

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STORIES OF HOPE

An emerging Story of hope

A

The judge recognized Valeria’s sincerity AND GAVE HER A CHANCE.

s a child, Valeria was forced to take on the roles and responsibilities of an adult. Rather than growing and learning as children do, in the normal course of life’s patterns, she was shackled with the adult roles of mom, mentor, nurse and protector; all while she was still a child. As a second grader, she went to school for a total of thirty days that year. She had two younger siblings to take care of and going to school was too much for this young child. Forced to help her mom control her ever-growing anxiety, responsibilities became the daily burdens of young Valeria.

Her family was always on the move, leap-frogging from one house to another. Dad’s drinking and drug use brought on his bad temper and mom would usually be in the path of that frustration. It wasn’t that they lacked money—they didn’t. Dad was a hard worker and made good money, but he was his own worst enemy. The cycle of destruction continued as they gained a house, lost the house, gained a house, lost the house. The pattern continued in the parents’ personal relationship as well. That same cycle duplicated itself as they separated, reconciled, separated, reconciled, all with three kids in tow. From town to town they went, sometimes a family, sometimes just the kids, shuffled from the uncles to the grandmas and back again. Mom was constantly dealing with her ongoing struggle with anxiety and was heavily medicated with a prescription that didn’t suit her.

Rather than easing her anxiety, it escalated it to the point of hospital stays and suicide watches.

Thanks to an astute doctor, it was discovered that the source of a great deal of her anxiety was the anti-anxiety medication itself. Yet, the issues remained.

When it came time for the fourth grade, the family once again was on the move, this time to Fresno.

The next years continued in the same pattern, but now mom had become pregnant as a result of one of the reconciliations. Her mental, emotional and physical well-being were in decline.

Valeria’s own life continued to be a blur of taking care of her mom and siblings and seeking shelter from the dad. Still shuffled back and forth, the mom eventually lost the baby. While Valeria tried

to stay in school, it was as difficult as it always had been. Though she was now in high school, her friendships were sporadic, until she met someone special. He became an integral part of her mom’s life and she seemed to be better when he was around. Valeria also relied on this special friend more and more and soon they became close. It was now the end of her junior year and she was still the primary caregiver for her mom as well as her younger brother and sister. When she was 17, Valeria finally said, “Enough.” She just didn’t want to do it anymore. She and her friend made the move together to a friend’s house, where they stayed. They went to the dad’s but he was dealing with his own drug addiction issues and the demons there were too much.

shopping at Macy’s. She took a few items of clothing for her and the baby, and got caught. She had to call someone to pick up her baby, she was taken into custody and spent three soul-searching tearful days without her baby and in juvenile hall.

She realized with perfect clarity just how bad her situation had become. The judge recognized Valeria’s sincerity and gave her a chance. She was placed on house arrest with a condition that she graduate from high school. The judge gave her one month to complete her studies and graduate.

Though her dream of attending Fresno State had been eliminated, she had to finish high school and the only way to do that was through continuation school. She enrolled, studied, and graduated! She started classes at Fresno City College.

There was nowhere to turn, so they made a U-turn back to the mom’s house. Hard times require hard decisions.

While at City College, Valeria met Vanessa from Focus Forward.

They moved in with the mom but the fighting was constant. It was Valeria’s senior year of high school and she was four months pregnant. As the challenges continued, the two of them were not able to make ends meet to support their growing family.

It was now Valeria’s senior year and she wanted to go to the prom, a normal yearning, especially considering all she had been through. They went

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Focus Forward has helped Valeria in her dreams of becoming a nurse. Alongside her every step of the way, Vanessa found a CNA program for Valeria, and she and baby Matthew, now ten months old, are living with Valeria’s dad, who is in recovery and doing well. Having successfully completed her CNA program, Valeria has recently been hired at a local medical center where she can begin to put her newfound medical skills to work!

Keep up the good work Valeria, you are a shining example for others to follow.

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CONTINUED FROM PAGE #11

TODD VALERI

That was only the beginning.

After City College, Todd Valeri enrolled at Fresno State, where he earned a Business degree with an emphasis in Finance. He began to work his way up at American Ambulance. He and Jennifer married, and Todd started Graduate School that same year.

Two years after that, their first daughter, Megan was born, and he finished his MBA. Emma, their younger daughter would come along soon after.

Five months later, he was made General Manager at American Ambulance at the young age of 30.

He had gone from underachiever to super star; not knowing that this was only the beginning!

American Ambulance was continuing to expand and the owners continued to place their trust in Todd, where he was afforded the latitude necessary to run the business he was coming to love.

When he first took the reins, there were 250 employees; today American has nearly 100 ambulances, three helicopters, and employs nearly 600 people. Todd Valeri interviews every single person, prior to their being hired, because he wants to know that every American Ambulance employee has a heart for service, without discrimination, bias or judgement. He still holds an active Paramedic license.

The original owners, Jim Kaufman and Larry Ward, had transitioned with Todd over a period of 20+ years, from employer/employee to being mentors, to becoming close friends, and culminating in nearly father/son relationships.

When Jim and Larry called Todd into their office and presented him with a partnership opportunity, it was the culmination of two decades of work and trust. He doubled down and did it, and since that time, Todd has gone on to become the sole owner of American Ambulance, one of the largest ambulance providers in the state of California, while continuing to build on the very foundation that Jim Kaufman and Larry Ward so tirelessly built.

The road Todd has traveled is well-worn. He says, “Success is the convergence of luck and

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preparation – you can only control one of them.”

Quite simply, he believes in being prepared and taking care of people. “If we do that, we will succeed.”

CONTINUED FROM PAGE #13

LISA CASAREZ

An immediate connection between Lisa and her children and the Watts occurred. With their unconditional support and encouragement, Lisa and her children were able to move into a new apartment and her kids were able to attend Clovis Schools. Lisa graduated from Fresno State and became a social worker, sharing her experience and education with many. Once again, she thought she had peaked and once again her full potential had not yet been reached.

It took her five years, but she went on to earn her Master’s Degree. She did her internship with CPS and saw first hand that the kids didn’t have the basic necessities when they were shuffled from their homes, not unlike Lisa and her own children. She vowed then and there that she would follow her calling to ensure that children were taken care of and to this day, she handles all her emergency placements personally, ensuring that children have shoes on their feet, a feeling she remembers as she left her home in bare feet.

Since those days, Lisa has had a core community of those who have assisted her along this journey, providing support, love and confidence to hundreds of foster youth. In 2000, she opened Angels of Grace Foster Family Agency. Lisa believes this is, “God connecting the dots of my life and co-voyaging on my journey.”

Over the last decade, 302 children have been adopted through Angels of Grace and now have forever families.

“God is good,” concluded Lisa, “God is good.”

STORIES OF HOPE

FF

75 CELEBRATING

YEARS FRESNO HOUSING

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STORIES OF HOPE

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Diamond Learning Center, Inc. Learning is for Everyone!

36

STORIES OF HOPE

L.I.F.E.

Learning Is For Everyone at Diamond Learning Center “…To discover and embrace meaningful education with the goal of generalizing knowledge to home and within community, for a successful and productive life experience for every unique individual.”

Jami Hamel De La Cerda, M.S., Sp.Ed. Founder, Diamond Learning Center

Celebrating Ten Years of Student Success Welcome to Fresno’s Diamond Learning Center where adult students experience learning in an innovative positive atmosphere, uniquely tailored for their success.

Academics

Music

Fitness

Art

Diamond Learning Center, Inc. Learning is for Everyone!

Find us on Facebook: DLC L.I.F.E. Diamond Learning Center

www.dlclife.org

1620 West Fairmont Avenue, Fresno, CA 93705-0323 • (559) 241-0580 FOCUS FORWARD THE MAGAZINE

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Get one-on-one assistance from our trained staff when you meet the eligibility requirements to enroll in staff assisted services!

Search on your own using the computers, phones, copy machines and more at any of our Resource Rooms!

Log on to America’s Job Center of California at Caljobs.ca.gov to access career information and training availability!

High School Diploma and/or GED Assistance Tutoring Career Guidance Skill-Building Workshops Work Experience Opportunities College/Vocational Training

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STORIES OF HOPE

The Fresno Regional Workforce Investment Board’s (FRWIB) goal is to add to the economic vitality of Fresno County. To accomplish that end, we diligently work to create an environment through the following programs we offer to the community where a qualified workforce is in supply even before there is a demand.

One-Stop Resource Through the FRWIB’s progressive One-Stop Centers, employment and training services are provided to a diverse spectrum of job seekers through a unique combination of five (5) Workforce Connection One-Stop Centers located in Fresno, Coalinga, Reedley, Firebuagh and Selma. At our One-Stop locations job seekers have access to free workshops, information on high demand jobs, career exploration, referrals to community resources, and job board listings.

The FRWIB also has a program specifically to address the needs of the youth in our community – the All Youth One System (AYOS). AYOS provides services for youth, 14 - 28 years old. The focus for the older youth is to prepare them for employment by encouraging continuing education for diplomas, degrees and training certification. The major emphasis for younger youth is to assist them in academic improvements, encouragement to stay in school, and preparation for later employment.

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p

i nt

ch

oo

Su

er

A. Yovin o

ls

Jim

e n d e nt of S

we believe every student can thrive!

Every day, the Fresno County Office of Education works to positively impact the lives of the almost 200,000 Valley children we serve. We believe that every child, no matter his or her circumstances and abilities, must have access to a quality education in order to thrive. Through our departments and services, we support programs such as Special Education, Migrant Education, Court and Community Schools and school district financial and educational services with a special focus on these fundamental areas: Career technical education – Allowing students to explore their interests and develop careers skills, while reinforcing their academics, creates a workforce ready to enter the trade jobs that are essential to our community’s success.

Arts – The arts bring joy and creativity to our schools while at the same time requiring rigorous practice, close attention to detail and critical thinking skills.

Poverty – School children cannot prosper in an environment lacking food, shelter and stability. We support community programs and partnerships to decrease the poverty rate in our county.

Intervention – Our schools need active involvement of parents, local businesses, community leaders and citizens to succeed. Participation in the education process from mentoring to sponsorship of programs is the precursor to positive change.

Civility – Teaching our students to be givers instead of takers is the foundation to build true leaders who respect their neighbors, their community and their country.

Homelessness – Homelessness and poverty go hand-in-hand.

Education is the great equalizer with which we must provide every student in the county.

Early education – Children need access to educational opportunities and school readiness programs before kindergarten to give them a foundation for a lifetime of success.

Changing lives – one future at a time! www.fcoe.org

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STORIES OF HOPE

“I believe we can all make a positive difference in the lives of our children, not only through education, but in a shared interest in the well-being of others.”

Jim A. Yovino Fresno County Superintendent of Schools

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STORIES OF HOPE

illuminating a path for children and their families

he Lighthouse for Children is a Tcommunity space where young children and their families are supported and prioritized so they can reach their full potential. Through a variety of programs and services offered at the facility, First 5 Fresno County and community partners help families focus on the importance of a healthy start, early learning and family strengthening.

Located on the first floor of the building, a high-quality child development center provides a space where children from all socio economic backgrounds and abilities can learn alongside each other.

The Community Learning Center is located on the second floor and offers classes, workshops and educational activities for professionals and families with young children.

Conferencing and office space for community agencies is also available and First 5 Fresno County’s administrative offices are housed at the Lighthouse for Children.

This three-story community building is located in downtown Fresno and was created by First 5 Fresno County.

Lighthouse for Children 2405 Tulare Street Fresno, CA 93721

LEARN MORE AT

www.lfcfresno.org FOCUS FORWARD THE MAGAZINE

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CLOVIS POLICE

DEPARTMENT Youth Services Police Department: (559) 324-2800

Emergency: 911

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STORIES OF HOPE

Protection Prevention Intervention Accountability

Youth Services PROGRAMS The Clovis Police Department established the Youth Services Division in 1984 to assist in the positive development of our community’s youth. Youth Services utilizes three principles within its programs and services to promote this development: • Juveniles must be held accountable for criminal behavior, out-of-control behavior, and/or curfew violations • Parents must be provided with support to discipline and control their children • Juveniles must be provided with activities and resources that help them prevent and overcome delinquent behavior

GOALS • • • • •

To provide consistent accountability for youth who are out-of-control and who commit criminal offenses To reduce the incidence of juvenile crime, under-age drinking and illegal drug use To support parental authority To prevent gangs from marking and establishing territory To provide opportunities for youth to learn about, and experience, various careers in law enforcement

MISSION To encourage youth within the City of Clovis to consistently demonstrate behavior that produces social, emotional, educational, and economic success.

• • • • • •

Drug Education Program Parent Support Group The Diversion Contract The Diversion Program Juvenile TAC Graffiti Abatement

LEADERSHIP INSTITUTE EXPLORER POST 355

To learn more about the Clovis Police Department Youth services, call the Clovis Police Department,

Youth Services Division: (559) 324-2440 FOCUS FORWARD THE MAGAZINE

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We care for people.

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STORIES OF HOPE

STOP THE TEXTS. STOP THE WRECKS.

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Effective philanthropy

in this place we call home

Fresno Regional Foundation 5260 North Palm Avenue Suite 122 Fresno, CA 93704 centralvalleycf.org

OLD LOCATION

NEW LOCATION

W SAN JOSE AVE N PALM AVE

At the Central Valley Community Foundation our next chapter has begun. Building on 50 years as a philanthropic leader, serving six counties across the San Joaquin Valley, we continue to grow and expand our efforts. By cultivating smart philanthropy, providing skill building tools and research opportunities, fostering collaboration and honoring donor passions, we are investing in the future of our community as never before. Come join us in this important work.

NEW ADDRESS

FIG GARDEN VILLAGE W SHAW AVE

The entrance to the new office space is located on the north side of the building across from our former location.

SAME MAIN PHONE NUMBER

(559) 226-5600

New phone numbers for staff.

SAME FAX

(559) 230-2078

Central Valley Community Foundation is proud to serve as the fiscal agent for Focus Forward.

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STORIES OF HOPE

Center for Community The Center for Community will bring together nonprofit organizations, donors and philanthropy professionals to build a stronger future for the San Joaquin Valley.

Facilitating the Business of Local Agencies The Center for Community includes five distinct meeting spaces for community benefit organizations serving the San Joaquin Valley. The spaces are free of charge and available weekdays during regular business hours.

Strengthening Skills and Fostering Collaboration The Center offers monthly programming and workshops for CBO staff and boards of directors. Our goal is to encourage nonprofit success by providing training in skill building, tools and technology and best practices. Fundraising, grant writing, marketing, financial literacy, leadership development and board governance are some of the topics included.

Donor Engagement and Guidance Through meetings and workshops with recognized experts, donors have the opportunity to learn about philanthropy and how to make the greatest impact with their giving. Topics include assistance with both personal and organizational funds held at the Foundation, legacy planning and how to partner to address the unique needs of our region.

Research and Data The Center will house a dedicated research library providing free access to data and insights including the Fresno Scorecard. Nonprofits and donors can better understand community assets and needs, effective strategies and grant making outcomes.

Partnering With the Creative Community To further our engagement around grant making priorities and to help strengthen the local arts community, the Center will display the work of local artists and photographers. The exhibits will celebrate the rich cultural heritage and diversity of the San Joaquin Valley.

The CVCF Center for Community For more information, please contact Amber Encinias 559.226.5600 Tel

amber@centralvalleycf.org Email

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S

ince its inception in 2006, the Granville Home of Hope has raised more than $3.5 million, directly benefitting local organizations.

These groups in turn have provided millions of meals, clothing and coats for thousands of children, muchneeded hygiene kits, bereavement and hospice support for thousands

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of people, hundreds of student scholarships, and multiple grants and school programs.

The Granville Home of Hope was conceived by Darius Assemi, now president of Granville, a man who is no stranger to the world of philanthropy.

The Assemi family has donated both time and resources to local, global and national causes for decades.

STORIES OF HOPE

Darius created the event as a way to raise funds in the most effective way for the community: to a variety of different causes through nonprofit organizations with an amazing prize.

Regardless of whether a ticket holder wins the home, they have done something good. As Darius puts it, “This home is a symbol of what each of these organizations do every day

by giving hope to those in need in our community.”

Every year, Granville is proud to support Community Food Bank, Poverello House, Assistance League, Hinds Hospice, Foundation for Central, Clovis and Sanger Schools, Renaissance Scholars (Fresno State), EPU Children’s Center and Fresno Police Chaplaincy Program.

Over the course of 11 years, Granville Home of Hope has helped countless Valley families in need. Its deepest impact, however, may be what the event creates overall: uniting the community in achieving something for the greater good.

2016 GRAND PRIZE

CANVAS 3 PLAN FROM GRANVILLE HOMES 2,079 Sq. Ft. • 3 Bedroom w/ Study • 3 Bath Prepaid Solar Lease • Quartz Counters Water Wise Landscaping • Granville Eco-Smart Features Custom Owner’s Closet • Designer Window Coverings 12’ Sliding Door and much more!

GRAND PRIZE DRAWING

MONDAY, JULY 25, 2016 FOCUS FORWARD THE MAGAZINE

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EVIDENCE-FOCUSED SERVICES Exciting things are happening at the Juvenile Justice Campus. Under Chief Probation Officer Rick Chavez’ leadership, the expansion of evidence-based programming (EBP) in the JJC and Juvenile Services Divisions has been impactful because of the implementation of scientifically proven principles that reduce recidivism. An Evidencebased Practices Senior Juvenile Correctional Officer oversees programs currently being utilized within the Juvenile Justice Campus (JJC). The officer has responsibility of overseeing implemented EBP programs and works collaboratively with partnering agency staff, Deputy Probation Officers (DPO), and JJC transition re-entry team members when developing case plans for youth in our care. A vital role of the EBP Officer is to ensure that the fidelity and integrity of each program is maintained to the highest level.

Our EBP programs have been successful because they provide positive, demonstrated, measured outcomes. The Fresno County Probation Department is committed to embracing EBP programs in the future to pave the path to offer hope for our young people. We are striving and moving forward, accomplishing great things as we continue to offer hope to the youth of Fresno County.

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STORIES OF HOPE

FRESNO COUNTY PROBATION Partnering with our Community The Juvenile Justice Campus (JJC) opened its doors in 2006 and began serving youth and families of Fresno County. The JJC joined forces with partnering community-based agencies, including Focus Forward, to develop services that had two goals in mind: To rehabilitate incarcerated youth and to reduce the likelihood these young men and women return to the JJC in the future. Not many know of the variety of incredible programs and services that are available to the youth at the JJC. Within the JJC youth have the opportunity to utilize services offered by our partners. Agencies such as Focus Forward; Fresno County Office of Education, Sierra Educational Research Institute (SERI); the Boys and Girls Clubs of Fresno; Corizon Medical, Youth for Christ, and Mental Health Systems (MHS) partner with us to provide wide-ranging services.

In 2014 transition and reentry services designed to prepare youth for release and to reduce recidivism are provided to targeted youth and their families were introduced.

In September 2015 the Probation Department was awarded grant funding from the Board of State and Community Corrections to enhance our current reentry transition services program by implementing the Planned Re-Entry Program (PREP) project. PREP adds three components to the department’s existing transition efforts: a Transition pod designed to bring youth together as they prepare for transition prior to release, a Social Work element to support the development of individual, achievable reentry case plans, and counseling to address coping skills and family issues; and a Family support partner to provide both in-custody and post-custody support for families of targeted youth. The addition of the PREP project will provide for systematic and coordinated reentry support services for youth released from the Juvenile Justice Campus.

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County of Fresno Department of Social services

The County of Fresno welcomes anyone to attend orientation to gather information and training on becoming a Resource Parent.

For more information, please call

Foster Care Orientation

1-877-533-KIDS (5437)

No diapers to change, no bottles, formula or burp rags required.

We sleep through the night.

We will be ready to move out sooner...but we will always come home to visit.

You don’t just get a child, you get a friend.

We will keep you up to date on the latest fashions and trends.

No more carpools; we can drive you places.

We can pick up after ourselves and help around the house...when we want to.

We can learn from you and we can teach you to be more patient, understanding, kind and empathetic.

We can teach you how to program your cell phone, stay updated on social media, and work your computer.

We will be a part of your life; someone to share our life dreams, achievements and holidays with.

2016

January S

M

T W T

3 4 5 6 10 11 12 13 17 18 19 20 24 25 26 27 31

7 14 21 28

F 1 8 15 22 29

S 2 9 16 23 30

February S 7 14 21 28

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March S

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W 2 9 16 23 30

T 3 10 17 24 31

F 4 11 18 25

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S M T W T 3 10 17 24

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M 2 9 16 23 30

T 3 10 17 24 31

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T 5 12 19 26

F 6 13 20 27

S 7 14 21 28

S M T W T 3 10 17 24 31

4 11 18 25

5 12 19 26

6 13 20 27

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4 11 18 25

(corner of Cedar and Shaw)

9:00 am to 12:00 pm

S M T W 1 5 6 7 8 12 13 14 15 19 20 21 22 26 27 28 29

5 12 19 26

6 13 20 27

7 14 21 28

S M T 1 6 7 8 13 14 15 20 21 22 27 28 29

(corner of Cedar and Shaw)

5:30 pm to 9:00 pm

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STORIES OF HOPE

W 2 9 16 23

1 8 15 22 29

2 9 16 23 30

7 14 21 28

S

29 30

30

F 4 11 18 25

F 1 8 15 22 29

S 2 9 16 23 30

F 3 10 17 24

S 4 11 18 25

August S M T W T

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T 3 10 17 24

T 2 9 16 23 30

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October S M T W T 2 9 16 23

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November Evening Orientations held at: CSU Fresno Training Room 1625 E. Shaw Ave. #106

7 14 21 28

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June

July

S M T W T

Morning Orientation held at: CSU Fresno Training Room 1625 E. Shaw Ave. # 106

6 13 20 27

May S 1 8 15 22 29

F 5 12 19 26

April

September DATES INDICATES:

T 4 11 18 25

S 5 12 19 26

December S M T W T 1 4 5 6 7 8 11 12 13 14 15 18 19 20 21 22 25 26 27 28 29

F 2 9 16 23

S 3 10 17 24

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Thank you

We’re pleased to support the work of Focus Forward in the communities we serve.

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STORIES OF HOPE