All Children Thrive - California

ACT Success Stories

Empowering Youth and Revitalizing Parks in South Stockton: Peter’s Story

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Empowering Youth and Revitalizing Parks in South Stockton: Peter’s Story

THE PERSONAL CONNECTION

Peter Elias is a Youth Project Coordinator with Reinvent South Stockton Coalition and grew up in South Stockton, spending time at parks like McKinley where community events brought people together.

Those spaces shaped how he sees parks today, not just as places to go, but as spaces where young people should feel seen, supported, and free to be themselves.

THE PROBLEM

When parks are not safe or well-maintained, it sends a message. It can make young people feel like they don’t belong.

Run-down spaces can increase stress, limit opportunities for positive expression, and make it easier for negative influences to take hold.
Without safe places to gather, the risk of community violence and substance use increases.

WHY YOUTH VOICE MATTERS

Peter emphasizes that young people should be included in
decisions that directly affect their communities.
“Young people shouldn’t let someone who isn’t living in their communities make decisions for them.”
For BIPOC youth especially, being included means challenging a long history of being overlooked and unheard.

Let your story be heard. It could be what lights the fire for change.

THE SOLUTION

Youth in South Stockton are already leading the work.
Through the relaunched Youth Advisory Council, young people are advocating for safer, better-equipped parks, from restoring handball courts to pushing for improved lighting, walkability, and accessibility.

They are not just sharing ideas –they are helping shape real changes in their community. They are shaping the spaces they grew up in.

When people have something that looks nice and brings them safety, they take care of it.

Improved parks can build pride, strengthen community, and support youth health and well-being.

South Stockton youth are working to make that a reality and are leading the change.

Creating Space for Youth in Big Bear: Aedan’s Story

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Creating Space for Youth in Big Bear: Aedan’s Story

THE GAP

In Big Bear, there aren’t many places for young people to go.
Especially in the winter.
When snow closes parks and public spaces, options shrink fast.

WHAT COVID EXPOSED

During the pandemic, students were stuck at home, sometimes in difficult situations, trying to talk about serious issues over Zoom.
It revealed how few safe, consistent spaces Big Bear youth actually have.
Aedan decided that it needed to change.

RAISE THEM UP

Aedan and five other youth leaders formed Raise Them Up, Big Bear’s ACT youth advocacy group under The Mom and Dad Project.

Youth engagement is super important because we’re experiencing it firsthand.
A lot of local leaders don’t realize how excluded youth are.

Their Mission:
Build youth programs. Create safe spaces.
Establish a youth council so young people have a voice in
city decisions.

YOUTH VOICE IN ACTION

Through Raise Them Up, Aedan and his peers gained the skills, confidence, and civic knowledge to engage city leaders and advocate for safe spaces and youth representation in Big Bear.

Big Bear’s youth aren’t asking for space to appear. They’re working together to raise them up from the ground up.

Lasting change requires fresh perspective and bold leadership. Youth across California are already shaping solutions within their communities. Support youth-led efforts, elevate their voices, and let’s help build a future grounded in belonging, opportunity, and shared responsibility.

Youth Voices for Housing Stability in Los Angeles: Perla’s Story

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Youth Voices for Housing Stability in Los Angeles: Perla’s Story

Perla doesn’t talk about youth homelessness from a distance.
She’s seen it up close.

I do have family members who are experiencing this unwanted thing of homelessness here in Los Angeles because of high rent and substance abuse.

For her, housing instability is not a headline. It’s personal.
In Los Angeles, rising rent can mean one missed payment changes everything. Young people feel the impact immediately, in school, in their safety, in their stability.

Housing insecurity isn’t rare. It’s becoming normalized.
Perla refused to accept that.

Through her work with Para Los Niños, Perla joined other young leaders to make sure youth voices shaped the conversation.

  • Youth shared their lived experiences.
  • Youth documented community needs.
  • Youth became paid peer navigators — supporting other young people facing housing instability.

“We share peer navigators to help support the policies o further engagement for Para Los Niños.“

As a result, youth leadership through Para Los Niños turned into action resulting in:

  • 20 youth trained and employed as peer navigators.
  • More than 600 young people connected to support.
  • Listening sessions held with youth.

Youth perspectives make sure programs and policies are effective and relevant to our focus.

Perla is now pursuing business administration at Los Angeles City College, committed to continuing her advocacy and service for youth.
Her story is bigger than one program.

Housing policy works best when youth are at the table.

Youth are not waiting, they are building.
Support youth-led change now. Back the brilliance of young leaders. Build thriving communities across California.

Youth Voices for Safer Streets in Bakersfield: Natalie’s Story

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Youth Voices for Safer Streets in Bakersfield: Natalie’s Story

When Natalie remembers her high school days in Bakersfield, she doesn’t just think about the long walks home. What stands out most is the constant feeling of danger. She remembers streets lined with schools, a high school, a middle school, and an elementary school all packed onto the same road. Kids had to navigate through traffic without sidewalks or stop signs. Walking home never felt safe.

While still in high school, Natalie joined ACT Bakersfield and worked with her friends to address the dangers on the roads and sidewalks near their schools and parks. In their overlooked, low-income neighborhood, they faced the lack of safe infrastructure every day.

She shares one personal moment that sparked her commitment:
“I was at the community center near a park, but there was no crosswalk. Cars just wouldn’t stop, and my friend and I had to run across the street. It made me realize that if it was that scary for us, imagine how dangerous it was for little kids walking home.“

Natalie and her youth group wanted to show what their streets were really like. They took photos, gathered stories, and wrote speeches based on their own experiences. Young people noticed dangers that city leaders often missed. Their goal was simple: share their perspective directly with those in charge.

When the group shared their findings with the Bakersfield City Council, their work led to real changes. Now, a new stoplight and crosswalk connect the community center and park. Crosswalks near the high school have fresh paint, and new stop signs help slow down traffic by the school. The city also plans to rebuild the street that links all three schools.

For Natalie, these changes are about more than just safer streets. They show that young people can make a real difference.

We didn’t just make one area safer. We helped create the idea of a safer neighborhood for everyone.

The youth worked with the Greenfield Walking Group, a local group that cleans parks and organizes community events.

Their relationship with city council members made their advocacy stronger and helped them feel more confident when speaking. “They already knew what we were there for,” Natalie says. “It made our presentation stronger because we had support.”

Now that she is in college, Natalie is still active in her youth group. She sees how young people can influence city planning and raise awareness of communities that are often overlooked.

“A lot of city funding goes to housing and shopping centers, but our communities, the ones that already exist deserve that same investment.”

One crosswalk can change everything.
Natalie’s advocacy turned unsafe conditions into safer streets and inspired actionable solutions.

When young people speak up, cities respond and communities become better.

Youth know what their communities need.
Support youth-led change across California, support youth and make All Children Thrive.

Modesto – Advancing Park Equity for All Children

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Modesto – Advancing Park Equity for All Children

Access to safe, clean, and vibrant parks should be a right for all children — no matter their zip code.

Studies show that parks offer an ideal venue for physical activity, social connection, and other activities proven to improve mental health and fight chronic disease.

Yet in Modesto, safety concerns like poor lighting, stray dogs, drug use, and homeless encampments have prevented families from fully taking advantage of the benefits of parks, particularly in the underserved Robertson Road and James Marshall neighborhoods. Uneven ground, broken equipment, and limited amenities have long kept families away, further worsening health disparities and social isolation.

“Every child deserves a place outside to be with friends and enjoy nature without their parents worrying,” says Martin Montez, a member of the Tuolumne River Trust’s Park Youth Committee (PYC). “Modesto is a large city with people of many backgrounds and ways of life. I’ve seen good — and not-so-good — park maintenance. I’m glad we’re shining a light on that disparity.”

To address these inequities, the Tuolumne River Trust secured support from All Children Thrive-California (ACT) and others to establish PYC, empowering local youth to lead the charge for equitable park funding. ACT is a project of Public Health Advocates, funded by the California Department of Public Health in partnership with Community Partners and UCLA-Center for Healthier Children, Families, and Communities.

The committee engaged nearly 1,000 residents through surveys, presentations, and outreach events in both English and Spanish, eventually building enough support to convince city staff and the Modesto City Council to unanimously adopt Resolution #2024-155, a formal commitment to creating equitable, safe parks for every neighborhood.

“The Park Equity Resolution demonstrates the city’s commitment to listening to all residents, regardless of age,” says Modesto Mayor Sue Zwahlen. “It’s amazing to experience the power of youth advocates. We encourage youth to continue to be involved in the decision-making process. They have firsthand experiences that shine a light on the barriers young people face.”

PYC members crafted the resolution by examining the General Plans and Parks Master Plans of other cities. Drawing on successful park planning models, they developed an equitable framework to bring their vision to life. Since its passage, the Modesto Parks, Recreation, and Neighborhoods department has begun drafting a new Parks & Recreation Master Plan in partnership with youth leaders. The department works alongside youth to develop and place educational and interpretive signage for the Tuolumne River Regional Park.

“Parks were a huge part of my childhood, so when community members described the inequities between different neighborhoods in Modesto, it inspired us to find a solution,” says Taylor McGuire, another PYC member. “We want this master plan to give all our neighborhoods access to safe parks so they can enjoy their time outside, regardless of the income of residents who live there.”

Sacramento – Promoting Youth Mental Health and Well-Being with Measure L Cannabis Funds

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Sacramento – Promoting Youth Mental Health and Well-Being with Measure L Cannabis Funds

Every young person deserves the opportunity to thrive.

Yet, untreated mental health issues, rising homelessness, and limited access to after-school programs have undermined Sacramento’s youth, weakening the city’s long-term potential. A time-tested strategy to prevent poor health outcomes and reduce childhood trauma is to invest early in supportive services. That’s why Sacramento public health advocates, local officials, and students came together in 2022 to champion Measure L, a ballot initiative establishing a sustainable funding source for the city’s children.

“Years of organizing and youth leadership have brought us to this moment,” says Sacramento City Councilmember Mai Vang. “Young people throughout Sacramento have demanded that we prioritize them.”

Their coalition, Sac Kids First (SKF), coordinated by Youth Forward, brought together 35 youth-serving organizations and over 2,000 individuals to convince the city council to place the initiative on the ballot and later urge voters to pass the measure. In the process, the team hosted youth focus groups and conducted a citywide survey to gather input. After meeting with officials, hosting coalition meetings, and giving youth ample opportunities to lead advocacy efforts, the coalition successfully passed Measure L. The measure created a “Children’s Fund” in the City of Sacramento budget, fully funded by cannabis revenue.   

After its passage, Sacramento took decisive steps to ensure the Children’s Fund addressed youth challenges. In 2023, Youth Forward staff member Monica Ruelas Mares was appointed by then-Mayor Darrell Steinberg to the Planning and Oversight Commission for the fund. After she was elected commission chair, Mares led the effort to draft a five-year strategic investment plan aimed at stabilizing funding and increasing resources for youth services. In September 2024, the Sacramento City Council unanimously approved the ambitious plan which introduced targeted interventions including a basic income program for young people aging out of the foster care system. The city’s Youth Parks and Community Enrichment Department (YPCE) became the lead implementing agency for the fund, issuing its first Request for Proposals (RFP) for youth-serving organizations in November 2024.

While it accomplished its original goal, SKF is not letting its momentum go to waste. The coalition meets monthly to strengthen its advocacy strategies. Together, they use an “inside” strategy to keep partners informed and an “outside” strategy to engage regional stakeholders, ensuring transparency and accountability in line with Measure L’s intent.

“Measure L ensures equity is not just a promise but a reality,” says Leticia Aguilar, Executive Director of Native Sisters Circle, a partner organization within the Sac Kids First coalition. “It allows Native-led organizations like ours to create protective environments where youth can thrive. When we invest in their well-being today, we strengthen the future of our entire community.”

Bakersfield – Protective Environments

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Story 2

A Journey of Collaboration: Making Bakersfield’s Parks Safer for All

In the heart of Bakersfield, California, lies a community united by a shared vision: safer parks and routes for all. For three years, the Greenfield Walking Group, Vision Y Compromiso, and All Children Thrive – CA have embarked on a journey fueled by passion, dedication, and collaboration.

On April 13th, 2024, the David Head Center in Lamont buzzed with anticipation. Excitement hung in the air like a promise of change as community members, young and old, gathered to celebrate their collective achievements.

The event was more than just a gathering; it was a testament to the power of unity. Guest speakers took the stage, their voices ringing with conviction as they highlighted the significance of youth and adult collaboration in community safety initiatives. Through their words, it became clear that change is not the product of solitary efforts but the fruit of collective action.

A dynamic youth panel captured the audience’s attention, sharing stories of resilience and determination in the face of adversity. Their experiences painted a vivid picture of the impact that safer parks and routes have on the lives of community members, inspiring all those present to redouble their efforts in pursuit of a common goal.

Amidst applause and cheers, an award ceremony shone a spotlight on individuals and organizations whose unwavering dedication had propelled the cause forward. Their contributions, large and small, were a testament to the ripple effect of kindness and determination.

But perhaps the most powerful moment of the day came during the commitment ceremony. As participants stood with the glow of shared purpose, it became clear that this was more than just a celebration—it was a promise. A promise to continue the essential work of promoting safety and accessibility in their community, no matter the challenges that lay ahead.

Notable figures such as Mayor Karen Goh graced the occasion with their presence, offering words of encouragement and solidarity. Gema Perez of the Greenfield Walking Group and Nataly Santamaria of Vision Y Compromiso stood tall, their spirits undimmed by the trials they had faced along the way.

As the event drew to a close, a sense of optimism permeated the air. Though the journey towards safer parks and routes was far from over, the community had proven that together, they were capable of overcoming any obstacle.

The people of Bakersfield stood united in their resolve. In their hands lay the power to shape the future—a future where parks are not just spaces of leisure, but sanctuaries of safety and inclusivity for all. A place where safe routes protect youth and families as they thrive in their communities.

Boyle Heights: Protective Environments

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Boyle Heights: Protective Environments

A.C.T. Success Stories

The Challenge

In the heart of Los Angeles, nestled within the vibrant neighborhood of Boyle Heights, lie cherished parks and green spaces with immense potential to foster community unity, mental wellness, and a deeper connection with nature. However, like many densely populated urban areas, these parks grapple with challenges that can undermine their role as safe havens for residents. Safety concerns, inadequate maintenance, and insufficient investment threaten to diminish their significance in the community. This posed a significant challenge for organizations dedicated to the welfare of Boyle Heights and its residents.

The Action

On April 20, 2023, a collaborative effort between Social Model Recovery Systems (SMRS) staff and representatives from the Friends of Hollenbeck Park and Friends of Boyle Heights Coalitions marked a pivotal moment in revitalizing the community’s parks. This partnership was the result of 20 plus years of community commitment to enhancing these green spaces.

SMRS, building upon this enduring community dedication, provided essential structure and resources. With decades of experience, SMRS served as a guiding force, channeling the collective energy of the community into impactful action. Through this partnership, the coalitions gained access to invaluable resources and expertise that played a pivotal role in shaping policy recommendations and action.

What made this collaboration particularly effective were experienced mentors and coaches who had become intimately familiar with Boyle Heights’ aspirations over the years. These mentors provided critical insights, ensuring that the proposals were not only comprehensive but also deeply rooted in the community’s long-standing desires and needs.

Moreover, with the collective wisdom of these mentors and coaches, coalition members received guidance on effective communication strategies. This training equipped them with the skills to persuasively convey their message to decision-makers and the wider community. These seasoned communicators helped articulate the significance of the proposed policy changes and the positive impact they would have on the lives of Boyle Heights residents.

The Outcome

The outcome of this collaborative effort, enriched by 20 plus years of community commitment and supported by SMRS, was nothing short of remarkable. The policy recommendations put forth by the Friends of Boyle Heights and Friends of Hollenbeck Park Coalitions, in partnership with SMRS, were not only acknowledged but embraced. The Los Angeles City Planning Commission recognized the significance of these recommendations and agreed to incorporate them into the upcoming Boyle Heights Community Plan.

This victory is a testament to the power of community collaboration and dedicated efforts. The policy changes are set to bring about a profound transformation in the way these parks are managed and perceived. The enhancements, focused on safety and cleanliness, will create an inviting atmosphere that encourages a diverse range of community members to actively utilize these spaces. The upcoming Planning and Land Use Management Committee and City Council meetings in the Fall will be crucial milestones for finalizing the implementation of these changes, ensuring a brighter future for Boyle Heights.

Link to ACEs and Protective Environments

The correlation between Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) and the need for protective environments is well-established. Parks and green spaces have the potential to act as protective buffers against the negative impacts of ACEs. In Boyle Heights, where a strong sense of community prevails, these spaces hold even greater significance. They serve as gathering spots, fostering relationships, and providing an opportunity for physical activity and mental rejuvenation. By investing in the parks, the community is investing in its resilience and well-being, thereby creating an environment where individuals can heal and thrive.

Conclusion

The collaboration between Social Model Recovery Systems (SMRS) staff, the Friends of Boyle Heights and Friends of Hollenbeck Park Coalitions, and the 20-year history of community commitment stands as an inspiring example of collective action for community well-being. The journey from policy recommendations to their acceptance paints a picture of determination, unity, and a shared vision for a better future. As the Boyle Heights Community Plan moves closer to approval, the triumph of this effort stands as a beacon of hope, a symbol that meaningful change is attainable when communities come together to nurture their spaces. The community’s long-standing commitment, enriched by the structure and resources provided by SMRS, acted as the bedrock upon which this success was built.

Monica Acevedo Guerrero