“Everyone should be able to be who they want to be.” – San Marin High School Student For the last two years, youth in Novato have been working with students and school administration on improving their school climate. As part of their research last year, the Friday Night Live chapter at San Marin High School, … Continued
“CAM taught me that us–the youth–have a voice and we can actually make a difference in our communities. I value my CAM because they are my support system, but most importantly they are the true definition of a family.” – Eli Jimenez, CAM Advocate Youth Leadership Institute’s Community Action Model advocates have reached the culmination … Continued
Roberto Cerrato, 16, is a freshman at South San Francisco High and has been a YLI participant for the past year leading our public transit efforts. Roberto wanted to get more involved in his community and was looking for a space where he could be himself, find a second family, and work together with his … Continued
“If I were to imagine a better world, it would be one where we recognize the humanity of people and see value in them regardless of the background they carry.” Montzerrat (Montze) Garcia Bedolla is a leader who deeply values community, social justice and health equity. She began her career with YLI in 2015 and … Continued
On September 22, 2016, the YLI 25 gala celebrated 25 years of youth leading and creating social change. This was the biggest fundraiser in the organization’s history with over $125,000 raised to invest in youth leaders. Nearly 300 people joined the celebration, including 90 youth who traveled from as far away as Fresno. The gala was held in the beautiful SOMArts … Continued
On Wednesday, March 8, Fresno Unified School District unanimously passed the “Safe Place School District” policy, to make schools safe for undocumented youth and their families. ICE agents will not be able to enter school district property unless specifically required by law. A youth leader from our Boys and Men of Color Program, Neng Thao, … Continued
“The skills, opportunity, and experience that YLI offers help to motivate youth so much. You can be heard and you can be political at any age. You don’t have to be scared that you will be shut down for having a different idea. You can make a change.” Edith Martinez is a YLI alumna and … Continued
“Meeting with our elected officials is integral to strengthening our relationship and building the credibility of the Marin County Youth Commission.” – Joshua Rowe, 15 The Marin County Youth Commission is a youth-led advisory body appointed by Marin County Board of Supervisors. Made up of 20 youth from all over Marin County, the Youth Commission … Continued
