this fabulous first issue: definitions—Who are you? Where are you going? muse: (myooz) an instance or period of reflection; a force personified, who is the source of inspiration for a person
Sum mer 2011
Inspiring YOU today for a greater tomorrow. OASIS Youth Opportunity Center | Perris, CA
o·a·sis: [oh-ey-sis] something serving as a refuge, relief, or pleasant change from what is a difficult, troubled, or hectic place or situation Find out how you can develop skills and abilities required to succeed in life . . .
Y.O.C.s are GroWinG!
Amazing students who are really a-mŪZ-ing
the Caring Voice behind the scenes! DEDICATION AND DETERMINATION are two words that, as the director of Oasis Perris Youth Opportunity Center, I believe all youth possess. The staff at Oasis are like a family and aim to instill the values of being determined and dedicated to dreams and goals. Why? Because if you can dream it, you can do it! Believing in ourselves is one of the best hidden treasures!
OASIS Youth Opportunity Center 351 Wilkerson Avenue Suite F Perris, CA 92570 M & F 8:30am-5:30pm T-W-TH 8:30am – 7:00pm (951) 657-7105 fax (951) 657-7196 toll free (866) 228-1320
Moreno Valley Youth Opportunity Center 12625 Frederick St. Ste. K-3 Moreno Valley, CA 92553 M-TH 8:00am – 5:00pm (951) 413-3920 fax (951) 657-7196 toll free (866) 228-1320
Oasis Youth Opportunity Center is a place to learn, develop skills, gain employment preparation and self-sufficiency by acquiring skills necessary for the workforce and life. If youth can increase their basic skills, acquire occupational skills training certification, and enter post-secondary and/or employment they have higher chances of survival. Can YOUTH do this? The answer is YES! Yes, you can! Youth must first set their vision, and staff will help you navigate to your destination. Staff is like a road map to success, we will guide you, and we will be the GPS in your life to help you achieve your goals!
As a director many of my responsibilities are behind the scenes . . . creating a budget, managing services, writing proposal, reviewing contracts; however, one major responsibility dear and close to my heart is my youth and staff! I become the navigation to making sure services are available to youth. My reward on daily basis is to know that a young person excelled in LIFE! My fulfillment is to know youth are reaching their goals! My happiness is to know that we impacted youth’s lives in a positive way!
Oasis is a place full of opportunities. It is the place to give it another shot. It is a home to many youth because each staff person genuinely cares about YOU! We care about your accomplishments, smiles, and desire to do better in Life! Remember there is no such thing as a dead end. You have the ability to change your destination, you have the ability to shift your gear into reverse! There is light at the end of the tunnel! Can you see it? I know I can! Allow us to guide you! Best regards always,
Rosa H. Penaloza “Director Behind the Scenes!” Come visit me or email at rosapenaloza@rescare.com ResCare Perris,aYouth Opportunity Center of Riverside County,is a proud member of theYouth Opportunities Consortium. The Consortium is led by the Council for Youth Development, the youth voice for the Riverside County Workforce Development Board.ResCare is an equal opportunity employer.Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request to individuals with disabilities.
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Inspiring YOU today for a greater tomorrow.
MūZ News Mag
Contents
FEATURES
is the official OASIS Perris Y.O.C. news magazine by the students, for the students, and of the students who want to be or are currently members of any Y.O.C. Oh, and alumni, too. :-) Check us out at oasisyoc.org.
2 Y.O.C.s Are Growing!
Meet the Staff | YOC Opening in Moreno Valley Potential Gateway to Your Future | Project C.E.O.
4 Stars in the Making
The 6th Annual Character Counts! Youth Awards Ceremony is one-of-a-kind night to honor some phenomenal individuals.
StAff leAd edItOr
travion Davenport ASSIStAnt edItOr
Domonique Lipscomb
5 Voices for Youth Speak Out
Nineteen destined souls from Perris, Indio, Hemet, Riverside and Lake Elsinore embarked on a journey to make a change for all of today’s youth.
Art dIreCtOr
marlon mayen buSIneSS mAnAger
Noe Ortiz StAff wrIterS
moises Gonzales robin Lipscomb Charles Williams
8 In Search of “Number 5 . . .”
Whatever happened to the first ever JuMP class, the creative writing staff of LeapRC Magazine? This writer wonders, “Whom do I interview?”
AdvISOr
Aude Cabaldon PublISher
OASIS Y.O.C. (YOuth OPPOrtunItY Center) Perris, CA
Summer 2011 edition
INTERVIEWS
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An Opinion
PrInter
rObInSOn PrIntIng, temecula, CA
10 Making It Happen
SPeCIAl thAnkS tO
11 A Better Perspective on Life
rosa Penaloza, maria boodman, rudy Perez, mischel'ea goodridge, OASIS Y.O.C. Staff, Shirley Cabaldon unleSS IndICAted OtherwISe, PhOtOS bY
Dreamstime Freerange Stock free Stock Photos morguefile Stock.XChng Aude Cabaldon
Dedicated to all students seeking success and living to fulfill their potential! Cm0611
12 You Can Change 13 Have Goals to Pursue 14 Building a Foundation 15 Don’t Settle for Less 16 Stay Humble
MūZ NEWS MAG | www.oasisyoc.org
new opportunity Center to open soon
Moreno Valley Y.O.C. Staff
Perris OASIS Y.O.C. Staff
(L-R) Marlon Mayen, Billy Walker, Leeanne Jimenez, Rosa Penaloza, Manuela Arreola, Teresa Gomar, Rudy Perez.
OMING SOON TO THE city of Moreno Valley—a brand spanking new Youth Opportunity Center! This Y.O.C. presents a wonderful workforce education alternative for the youth of the community. It will offer all kinds of employment skill development opportunities for the youth who choose to enroll. This center will keep young people off the street and away from lurking,
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(L-R) Martha Gonzales, Mischel’ea Goodrich, , Rosa Penaloza, Catherine Thompson, Maria Boodman, Manuela Arreola, Patricia Mitchell.
potential negative outcomes. Instead, they will have somewhere to go after school to get help in any areas where their struggling academically, take a variety of courses offered there, learn basic jobseeking techniques, and overall, be inspired to set goals and reach for their dreams. Economically this is great for the youth who live in Moreno Valley so they won’t have to commute to other
Y.O.C.s in other cities. Soon they’ll have one of their own in their city. What better way to have a positive impact to the youth in that community? If you know anyone living in Moreno Valley who would benefit, please let them know about this great opportunity opening up. Interested students, ages 16–21 should call (951) 657-7105 to get more information and to enroll soon. M
Potential Gateway to Your future HE OASIS YOUTH Opportunity Center not only helps and shows you how to be successful in the workforce, but also offers entrylevel college courses. These courses offered at the Y.O.C. can be a gateway to a potential career, a certain kind of certificate, or if you just want the $50 incentive you earn by completing one of the courses. The money isn’t the important part though. What matters is what you gain from the class. One of the courses I took at the Perris Oasis Y.O.C. that really captured my attention was the Intro to Water
T
By Noe Ortiz
Technology class. My instructor Melita Caldwell, who teaches at Mount San Jacinto Community, college took the time to explain what duties and knowledge we had to know to pursue a career in this field of water distribution. She gave us tips on how to interview for these jobs and what certifications we need to have in order to qualify for the positions desired. This class showed me how we get water from from natural resources, how we tranfer water from one place to another, how it’s distributed it to your house, and
PHOTOS BY MARIA BOODMAN
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By Noe Ortiz
how to treat waste water. Our instructor also gave us a tour of the waterplant she runs out in Temecula. This class showed me something to which I never paid attention and is essential for our survival. After taking this course I was interested in learning more about water technology and plan to take couses on this subject this fall at Mt. San Jacinto. I encourage you to take advantage of these courses offered at the Y.O.C. It coulld be a potential gateway to your future career! M
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Project C.e.o.
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HAT DOES IT FEEL LIKEHstepping inside an elevator, pressing the “F77” button, vertically springing up through a building in the city of angels, Los Angeles? To have the birds as your neighbors, with the clouds in view, ascending to a desk, where you sit behind a name plate which reads, your full name, followed by that powerful, three letter acronym, C.E.O.—what does it feel like?
I asked myself as I sat in class my first day, awaiting to begin my trek through a course here at the Perris Oasis called Project C.E.O., and I must say, by the time the course came near a close, my question was answered with new found ambition and a bit of hope.
Basic life skills; how to turn on electricity, phone lines, trash and recycling services and even lessons on filling out marriage and death certificates. Intriguingly, this was only day 2. Now one may ask, “What would any of this have to do with being the C.E.O. of a company?” But in a sense, what doesn’t this have to do with the subject at hand? Not only did the class prepare us for the corporate world, but it also gave us lessons on mastering the position of being chief
By Travion Davenport
executive officer of our individual being and life.
We learned how to construct an efficient portfolio, undergo and withstand the tedious pressure of a job interview, as well as how to conduct your behavior in a business setting and environment. Communication, integrity, positive attitudes, smiles and firm handshakes are just a few of the key lessons engraved into our minds as we focused on our personal success and the day’s specific agenda.
“This is one of those classes that should be mandatory for high school students each year. If it were required, then after graduation, kids wouldn't feel so lost. Instead, the immediate focus is college, the work force, or a combination or the two, kids would feel much more confident and prepared to take the next step, minus the hesitation and fear ," shared Taytana Rodriguez, a Project C.E.O alumna. So, what does it feel like? With motivation, determination, goals and lessons applied from this phenomenal class, perhaps YOU will be able to answer this for yourself, in first person. M
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stars in the Making
U Five of the nine awardees from the County’s five Y.O.C.s are pictured above: (L-R) Navil Arbayo, Jasmine Lopez, Marlon Mayen, Mirtha Galvan, and Anthony Mendoza.
NIQUE ARTWORK, AMAZING food, dim lights and a positive, electrifying energy that could bring Thomas Edison out of his grave for a second chance at life—these are just a few of the elements present on the evening of April 15, 2011, as hundreds gathered together for this one of a kind night to honor some phenomenal individuals in Riverside County at the 6th Annual Character Counts! Youth Awards Ceremony held at the Riverside Marriott. All youth awardees had tremendously powerful stories of pain, hardships, and adversity, followed by the steps that each individual took to change their personal set of unlikely circumstances from negative to positive. Through hard work, some assistance from their Youth Opportunity Center and a bit of hope, these youth were able to turn tragedy in to triumph, inspiring not only themselves, but everyone around them. Many of these young people went from being labeled as “at risk youth” to being on the right path and for that
special evening, shaking hands with senators and other government officials, from the county to the state's capitol. Each awardee's story was shared as they were introduced and presented various certificates, with Mirtha Galvan being awarded the biggest award of the night, a five thousand dollar scholarship to the school of her choice. Not to be left out, Navil Arbayo and Marlon Mayen each won a scholarship check for five hundred dollars each. When asked what was his favorite part of the ceremony, Mr. Mayen responded, "The entire event was overwhelming, in the best way. Just to have the support from everyone that came out—there were counselors there on their day off to support us—it was amazing!" Holding their heads high, these youth are definitely on the right path and may even end up being our future leaders in our communities. Their courage, willingness and inner strength is absolutely inspiring. Their personal stories are what you would call true examples of motivation. M
By Travion Davenport
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Voices for Youth speak out in sacramento By Marlon Mayen
Y HANDS PERSPIRE AS WE BEGIN TO SOAR into the beautiful marine blue sky. Every building, every city bus, every tower and bridge seems to be nothing more than a tiny spec. These objects, that were once immense in mass, are now but a tiny image through these portholes in the sky that paint a beautiful picture of one of the most beautiful mothers of all, Earth. Nineteen destined souls from five different locations: Perris, Indio, Hemet, Riverside (Rubidoux) and Lake Elsinore embarked on a journey towards making a change for all of the youth in today’s society. Voices for Youth are who we are and we arrived to Sacramento with a plan, and that plan was to have the youth of today and tomorrow’s voices be heard! —> next page
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The State Assembly Room As we approach a magnificent work of art that is the state capitol, we look into each other’s eyes as our faces are covered by the morning mist that surrounds us on a cloudy Tuesday morning. We realize that someday the actions that we are about to part take in will be taken into consideration and will set a standard for future generations to come. Black and white checkered floors remind me of a suburban barbershop back home, and the red velvet stairs that seem to reach the heavens are of the few images our eyes seem to retain. So much history within these halls, that you can smell every single second of the past. As we slowly glide across the grounds of the State Capitol we stumbled upon a room, but this is no ordinary room. There are walls of a soft beige color and carpet of a rose red hue and in the middle of it all stood one of the six senators and assemblymen that were
cordial enough to allow us some time out of their busy schedules. Senator Bob Dutton, a man of robust stature and voice of thunder was the first official to whom Voices for Youth was introduced. Some key points were prepared for the day: the impact of all the Youth Opportunity Centers and the need for more centers in different communities; educational opportunities for youth; employment opportunities for youth; and, the impact that budget cuts can cause not only to the youth, but to the community as well. We asked how he would address all the issues concerning budget cuts in state funds in the services that help youth excel in life and what if these centers close. What would happen to all those youth that come to the centers
for a better life, for a second chance in life, for those that need that initial push to succeed because they do not have the support at home? How would these affecting situations be addressed? Being on a time constraint, Senator Bob Dutton gave answers to our questions as best as he could. He stated how it’s not just a demand and receive scenario in the Capitol. How they are doing everything in their power to support youth opportunity centers and other organizations in California. Growing up in a youth facilitating programing as a youth, Senator Bob Dutton explained how he understands our concerns and realizes the necessity of YOC’s and helpful organizations in the community, but he also left us with a statement that went along the lines of
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Dutton
Emerson
Jeffries
this: not everything is ask, ask and ask. Changes can be made at the local level, with strength and unity of the people changes can occur but if one does not take action, then who will? We went on to interviewing Senator Bill Emerson, Assemblyman Kevin Jeffries, Assemblyman Brian Nestande, Assemblyman Manuel Perez and Assemblyman Paul Cook. Each were asked the same questions and asked how they would address these facts. All of them different in personalities and in character but we seemed to get the same response from all. Our senators and assemblymen are doing all that’s possible and understand all of our concerns and will take all of them into
Nestande
Perez
Cook
consideration. As each day goes by we see how our economy plunges into a deficit that even our capitol can’t seem to resolve and their solution is cutting back funds. Now if we are trying to recuperate from a bad economy, would it be smart to cut back on a service that is offered to a high population? If we are trying to help our country by getting rid of a recession then how can we try to fix the problem by cutting back on a service that will only better our economy, on a service that to many is a home and not just a place where they can receive all the necessary tools to succeed in the workforce? Is it truly up to us? Can we unite as people fighting for the same cause and change? To change our future,
our economy and our way of life to better understand that it is because of centers like the ones that support Voices for Youth that instill in the lives of the youth how to enhance themselves and how the YOC’s impact every life that walks into a center looking for a change. How will you make your voices heard? Will you wait around for someone else to speak the thoughts inside your mind or will you be the leader of your generation and make sure that the youth of today and tomorrow are taken seriously and no longer viewed as mere children in the game that is politics? It is Tuesday, March 15, 2011 and we are Voices for Youth. What is our mission? To make sure all youth voices are heard and taken seriously. There are nineteen of us and although it is pouring rain in Sacramento, all we see is sunshine as we walk with our heads held high; knowing that today we have made a difference for all of the youth. We came with a plan and that plan was executed magnificently! M
Riverside County’s Voices for Youth in the State Senate Room
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MūZ NEWS MAG | www.oasisyoc.org
in search of“number 5 . . .”
RUNT WORK IS NEVER A JOY in a lane of my own, with my own for someone who doesn’t like MūZ familia. working, but luckily I do like to Sitting in that classroom work, just not when I’m working on running through the motions of who having fun. Alumni, alumni, alumni. to choose for the alumni article, I’ve Who to interview for the alumni contemplated long and hard—who article? There’s Wayne, a dude who probably has more words than I can write in a sentence. And who can forget Essence, who’s literal essence is something that takes you back as a person. Then we fall into April’s time. 2011 LeapRC Magazine Staff There’s just something about naming your daughter April that makes your day should I pursue? Him or her? Her or that much better—she defines that. him? Maybe even—them? Man this guy Albert is no joke, Eventually, a decision has to be but has many jokes to tell. Dude has made. And though the interviews mad artistic skills, some of which he weren't as formal as they ought to keeps for certain eyes. Jose is a be, they nonetheless allowed me to brother from another mother. Guy gain the seed to this fruit that I hope has this swag about him that is you’ll have bitten into by the end of something that just sticks with you this article. for awhile. And Eileena is like a Shall we begin? For the sake of breath of fresh air. Her eyes tell it all. anticipation, we will refer to this When you look into them it’s like person simply as “Number 5.” you’re in a different dimension. Residence: unknown. Age: unknown. And Gio? Man, me and dude? Education: unknown. Occupation: One thing in common for sure— unknown. Goals: unknown. tattoos. His style makes you go back Date: May 9th, 2011, 12:00 to that closet of a garage you call a noon. Here we sit in a fairly large room and come back when you’ve room, red and gold colored walls. stepped up to par with his style. And Across from the desk she sits then there’s Mirtha, who’s smile is so patiently for the questions to come comforting as the rays of springs day, forth. I pause, admiring the art on with that nice cool breeze across her office walls. Then we begin. She your face. met Number 5 for the first time This is my JuMP family, and they about a year ago, during the Youth gave birth to a baby called LeapRC Leadership Advocacy Group, which Magazine. I tread vicariously, after was held on the weekends. You can them, not in their footsteps, but imagine how much of a drag that
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By Domonique Lipscomb
can be getting up that early in the morning. Rosa's' first impression of Number 5 was that this individual was a shy, nice person, but deep down full of confidence. “Never underestimate quiet people,” Rosa said. This peson’s “always committed, always here.” Rosa saw this during the JuMP class Number 5 attended last year. Number 5 is "easy going; has a beautiful smile . . . is relaxing, coordinated, stays on task, and is not your typical person.” These are just a few of the many complimentary remarks the “Superwoman of Perris” had to say about Number 5. The last time Rosa has seen Number 5 was at the Character Counts! Award Ceremony. Being surrounded by friends and family, Number 5 was full of joy. "I congratulated Number 5,” Rosa says, and on that night the growth I've seen from who she was to who she is now, is obvious. “Number 5's no longer that shy young person. Instead, I saw a young adult full of joy and confidence. Have you ever seen a person with confidence? Number 5's differences in the words of Rosa, are determination and the will power to not hide from who this person is. Although she looks different, it’s that determination in her that really strikes somebody. The gift Rosa has received from Number 5 is that warm smile, full of leadership, she instills in you; that is, “If I can do it, you can do it.”
Gathering the information I required to continue the search of Number 5, I proceeded on my way towards Indio, CA. A couple weeks went by and I unable to make contact. Therefore, I had to use another resource called the internet, more precisely Facebook. I was able to reach a fellow JuMP alum, who was enrolled in the course during the time as Number 5. Date: May 19th, 2011, 2:41 p.m. Ms. Evans first met Number 5 at the Youth Opportunity Center in Perris, CA, when they both began working on the LeapRC Magazine. One of her first impressions of was the confidence Number 5 generated from her critical role in their magazine. "Also her personality was lively and very contagious. And she stood out from the crowd and brought something unique and different to the table that was inspiring.” The experience between Essence Evans and Number 5 during the JuMP class “was fun. 5's quite the comedian. Everytime was a good time because 5 was entertaining. Also, when it came down to discussions, Number 5 always held a strong point of view or idea.” What makes Number 5 unique in the Essence’s words is that “5 is not afraid to be themself and express themself in 5’s own way. 5 doesn't conform to the rules society has set. Number 5 is true to themself.” Number 5 gave Ms. Essence Evans the gift of openness “to not always stay closed to one idea or a certain thing and that it doesn’t hurt to consider other ways and options.” "The last time I saw Number 5 was at our magazine release to the Work Investment Board, almost a year ago." Shucks, it looks like I’m back to ground zero—or am I?
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Luckily, I have the same instructor as did the previous JuMP class: Aude Cabaldon. He just may have the answers I seek. It’s been kind of tough attempting to contact a dude who’s busy like a bee. Date: May 23rd, 2011, 12:30 p.m. The first time Aude met Number 5 was similar to the way he met me— “through an interview to join the JuMP class for workforce development youth magazine (aka LeapRC) staff along with a number of Number 5’s peers from Indio.” "Number 5 radiated with confidence and a great smile," is the first impression Aude Cabaldon noted of this person. What makes Number 5 unique to Aude is that “5 is not afraid of being who 5 is, this person has an inner drive to achieve and likes to have fun.” The age old lesson of not to judge a book by its cover is probably the foremost of gifts Mr. Aude Cabaldon has received from Number 5. “To sum it up, the gift I feel I received from Number 5 is the success and personal growth 5's experienced, and hopefully will
continue to have. (I feel this way of course with ALL my JuMP Class students.)" Through this journey in search of Number 5, I’ve encountered multiple speed bumps, jumped many hurdles, and seemingly ended up where I began. Yet, this ending has just begun. I've learned a valuable lesson: a little inspiration plus motivation multiplied by dedication divided by perseverance equals success! Updated status of Number 5— Name: Mirtha Galvan. Residence: Indio. Age: Possible 20. Education: Currently a college student. Occupation: Co-founder of a publication for the Indio community/Full-time Employee. Goals: College graduation, start new business venture with her fellow alum, Gio Beltran. It would have been pretty cool to meet Mirtha Galvan, but what’s life without adventure? At least writing about her allowed me to get a foretaste of the fruit that everyone else who has met Mirtha have already had the pleasure to savor. M
an opinion
By Charles Williams
NSWERS BY “TONY,” a member in the L.A. community: 1. Do you think youth centers are important in your community? Yes, very important. Contributes good direction to better living. 2. Are you aware about any youth centers? Yes. Any educational center is good: Watts’s Skill Center, church, A.O.F Occupational Center. 3. Do youth centers help youth stay out of trouble? Yes,
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because youth need little bit of guidance & direction for a quick trade to survive. It’s a good start. 4. What would be a reason you think youth should join a Y.O.C.? They teach them self discipline. Encouragement and knowledge are good. To be ready for the work force; positive attitude and the ability to adapt and find new job. Looking finding trade or skill. It's a good thing to do. M
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Making it happen ELL, LET ME TELL YOU about this gentleman, Travion Davenport. I did not know anything about this man when i first met him—his background or who he was. So recently, I had the time to finally ask the man some questions about his life, his dreams and what knowledge he had to share.
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When he was a young man in high school everything, he did (and is doing now) revolved around music and knowledge. He grew up living a “hard knocks” life. He really didnt get things he wanted. He had to endure and make things possible. To me, he is like a super hero. He does things that are impossible to do. He belives in if you put forth effort, then you will acheive anything; anything is possible, just have to put your mind to it. One of the greatest quotes I learned from Travion is what he
By Robin Lipscomb
learned from hip hop icon P.Diddy—“If you are chasing your dreams, then your not running fast enough.” I realize what he had meant by it and I feel that it's true. Why chase your dreams? Make it happen! He showed the real meaning of the word knowledge. Travion is also known by many, but even being known, he doesn't pay mind to the people around him. He keeps his mind focused and figures out what is greater to achieve rather than fame.
Travion is not only known as a great writer, he is also known as a man who is loyal, respectful, encouraging and has high hopes for great expectations. You ask who Travion Davenport is well I say he's inspiring and if you get a chance to work with him the job will be done. His mind is like a dictionary and a genius in one and was a great person to interview. M
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a better Perspective on life
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By Charles Williams
—Charles Williams—had a conversation with Moises Gonzales about his life and how he got involved with Oasis Y.O.C. and it was pretty cool. Here are the things he told me during our talk. CW: How did you find out about Y.O.C.? MG: Someone in high school told me about it CW: What was the best advice you received? MG: Do every class. CW: How did the Y.O.C. impact you? MG: It made me wake up every morning and realize I need to better myself and my life if I wanted to be successful in life! CW: Moses, do you think anything can be be improved at the Y.O.C.? MG: I think it’s fine the way it is. CW: What are your plan after Y.O.C.? MG: I see myself in a career. CW: So why is Y.O.C. important? MG: I feel it makes you think about where you are in life and challenges you to consider what you really want to be in life. CW: So Moses, what would be a reason you think youth should join Oasis Y.O.C.? MG: It will help them get a better perspective on life. They will get to network and meet new people and see what career path that they feel would be a good fit. M
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You Can Change By Travion Davenport
TARING OFF INTO SPACE, awaiting the arrival of the subject for my article, I begin to reflect on how amazing of a year 2011 has been for me, and so many others in my inner circle. Suddenly my thoughts interrupted as Domonique Lipscomb walks through the door , calm, tall, and with an afro so big that it is merely inches away from grazing heavens. His presence is unique. In a moment, my thoughts went from present day, back in time to the ’70s , and now I am wondering if the chair I sat in is a time machine in disguise. Domonique began his journey here at the Oasis in March 2011, taking various classes such as; Project CEO, JuMP, Excel, Digital Photography and his favorite, Road-trip Nation. “I loved Roadtrip Nation class. It takes you out of the social bubble of life by challenging your mind to think out side of the box while helping you identify the career that best fits you based on you personal points of interest. Find something that you love to do and you will never have to work a day in your life.” These courses would allow him to explore and pinpoint new talents as well as landing an inspiring internship with the Perris Community Partnership, where he works and is mentored by Dr. Norman Towels. When asked how he found out about the YOC Lipscomb replied, “I always knew it was here, but never checked it out, until one day I was drawn to it, perhaps by fate.” In addition to the enlightening classes, the YOC is filled with an amazing staff counselors, caring educators, secretaries who will greet you daily with a smile that is as warm as a “Cali summer day.” Rudy Perez, the instructor for the Project CEO class plays a major role in Lipscomb’s trek here at the youth center, and it is here that received his best piece of advice. "Rudy is filled with positive energy and a lot of quotes. One thing he said that really stuck out to me was, ‘You are not your last name, you can change!’ That is something that I will carry with me for a lifetime." Domonique is currently finishing up his internship hours with Dr. Towels, working several non profit organizations, and even writing a book. When asked what his plans were after leaving the YOC, he looked me square in the eye with a smile and said, “Fly.” M
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have Goals to Pursue By Moises Gonzales
OBIN LIPSCOMB came in and interviewed with Catherine Thompson to join the Perris Y.O.C. She told him, “You can do anything you set your mind to.”
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So, he did Project C.E.O and a Microsoft Word class. His motivation was the convenience of having the classes here to join.
His Y.D.S. felt that he was on top of everything. Because of the time he's invested in the Y.O.C., Robin feels that he is a better person. After the Y.O.C., he plans to do music.
When I asked him why is the Y.O.C. is important, he said, “It helps kids to stay off the street.”
His three reasons for joining the Y.O.C. are to 1) build skills, 2) develop a track record of success, and 3) have goals to pursue in life. M
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building a foundation
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ITH ALL THE COMMOTION OF SCHOOL, social life, and work, we some how manage to get the little things done like this interview that I did on Marlon Mayen. Hopefully, one day, it will inspire you to get up and get busy building your life. Since we didnt have time to actually sit down and have the interview in person we did it via email. I asked him a couple of questions about the Y.O.C. and how it has affected his life. Marlon found out about the Y.O.C. through his high schools work experience program. He remembers Rudy, a counseler at the Y.O.C. and Monica, an employer relations specialist, visiting his high school to give an orientation. The Y.O.C. impacted Marlons life incredibly! Not only has it helped him to find and retain a job, but also to become a stronger individual and believe in himself
By Noe Ortiz
when others have gave up on him. He also believes Y.O.C.s are truly important and are needed in the community, not only to keep kids off the streets, but to instill in them the necessary tools to succeed in life. Marlon is inspired by the dedication of each person that works at the Y.O.C.—from the warm welcome to the one-on-one with his counseler. Everyday he looks foward to coming to the YOC. I asked Marlon what his favorite Class was and why. He told me his favorite class was Project CEO. It really showed him to survive and how to become a more successful person in the workforce. He learned a great deal from that class and was able to put every aspect of it into his life. Marlon plans after college to have a career in the social field. He looks forward to having a career— not waking up to a job that he doesnt want to do. Marlon is committed to succed in life and through the Y.O.C., he is building a foundation that is preparing him for what lies ahead. M
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don’t settle for less
T
HE OASIS YOUTH Opportunity Center inspired me to keep on learning, to expand my horizons, and to seek opportunities available for me with the necessary tools needed.” These are just some of the inspiring words from the young man I interviewed on a sunny afternoon in the month of April. Noe Ortiz, an 18 year old male, is currently employed and has plenty responsibilities on his plate. Noe: Being the oldest I have to set a correct and positive example for my younger siblings.” From our interview I got some insight on what Noe’s life was like and was amazed at the answers he gave. M: Noe, is the Oasis the only education you are currently receiving? Noe: No, I’m actually attending Moreno Valley College as well to further my educational goals. This is wonderful, a young man setting a positive example for his younger siblings with his hard work and is attending college to pursue his career. Of course all of this was not achieved over night and most likely not an easy journey. Unlike many ordinary people, Noe has a disability that would most likely seem to impair others from doing their day-to-day jobs and activities. Not being able to utilize his right hand as most others can does not prevent him from doing all that he does such as playing sports and working at a car shop. Knowing this, Noe still entered the Oasis looking for that assistance he desired. Although we didn’t have a traditional face-to-face interview, we chose to go the alternate route and decided to give good ol’ technology a chance with an electronic interview via email. M: So how did you come about the center or how did you find the center? Noe: The way I found out about the Oasis Youth Opportunity Center was through a friend that started to go to the center to receive his High School diploma. He mentioned the center to me as he told me about a summer work experience program where they offered work opportunities to kids between the age bracket of 16–21. I then applied and enrolled in the program and now I’m a part of writing the center’s first newsletter to try and get more youth interested in the programs
By Marlon Mayen
that are offered at the center. M: How did your Y.O.C. impact your life? Noe: The Y.O.C. impacted my life by teaching me how to survive in the workforce at any level and not settle for less. It also helped me by giving me an Oasis from the “pressured feeling” of a college setting. The most important part was it was local. I rode my bike to the center to conserve money first of all and to keep the environment healthy. Definitely a perfect example for younger siblings to look up to, Noe Ortiz has yet to pause on his journey to excellence. Never giving up and never quitting is what this young man is all about. So, if one day you come across this inspiring individual, shake his hand, because Noe Ortiz is truly an inspiring individual who will light up any room. M
MūZ NEWS MAG | www.oasisyoc.org
16
stay humble
By Domonique Lipscomb
INCE A PICTURE IS WORTH a thousand words, how much is a conversation worth was the question running through my thoughts after my conversation with Charles Williams. Walking into the classroom I wondered what could he possibly say that would spark the interest of my audience? We mutually greet one another as is the custom. What would come of this interview? Receiving an unexpected gift, Charles answered with a crystal clear sense of self, “Project C.E.O. allowed me to interact with people from different races, religions, walks of life. Hearing their personal stories and backgrounds was comforting, and a breath of fresh air; to converse about the views we share or disagree on with life in general.” “The Y.O.C. is more than important because a lot of youth have this chance receive a better outlook on their life, careers and education.” “The things offered at the Y.O.C. motivated me, such as an internship, Roadtrip Nation, a C.N.A. course and the vibe most of all makes me feel like I’m family. You can learn something new every day. Just be open minded. That’s what I attempted to do, and succeed in learning. The Perris Youth Opportunity Center, does what they can to create an environment in with an individual can feel like family out of their house, but also offering a paid internship to those who so desperately need it, as well as a Certified Nursing Assistant course, in which upon completion the student is awarded a certificate and
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also receives a externship. In addition, Roadtrip Nation is a excellent course, that removes the person from their environment, status, education, career and encourages the individual to go out and seek a career in which they love doing as opposed to doing something for the money. It also gives the person a reality check on their life and direction.” I’m look at Charles Williams and myself in a deep conversation—is there anything at all that makes his story different from the rest of those people in his age bracket? The answer solidifying the question was no. Although he grew up, in south central L.A. and Compton—in some neighborhoods called “the Jungles” and “the Brims,” to name a few—his upbringing was no different from some of the individuals around his age that I run across. Still, he chose to change the direction of where he would statistically be headed in this society. He’s going to make of this life he has by helping more youth than he already helps, to better themselves. Charles’ story gives hope. If he can rise out of his environment and make something out of his life, then why can’t we? In the words of Charles Williams “Give respect to get respect, and always stay humble.” M
M큰Z NEWS MAG | www.oasisyoc.org 17
Inspiring YOU today for a greater tomorrow.
WANt tO LeArN
applicable work skills? ( . . . and have fun doing it?)
u J MP!
then you need to
JuNIOR MEDIA PRODUCERS
challenging young people to pursue vocational passion by learning skills in journalism in print and electronic media
Classes this summer through 2012 Contact your Y.O.C. Or emAiL Aude Cabaldon: aude@audesign.cc
, It s Your Career. Make It Happen! Riverside County Youth Opportunity Centers (YOCs) can help you with work readiness preparation, hands on paid work experience, secondary and post-secondary educational assistance, one on one counseling and mentoring, career awareness, county resources, leadership and life training. We can help the you create a road map to your future success!
Maria Flores, a Planet Youth participant, was presented with a Certificate of Recognition by the Mayor of Lake Elsinore, Melissa Melendez, in appreciation of the contributions she made to the community during her participation in the Mayor’s 2010 Internship Program. In addition to her volunteer work for the City of Lake Elsinore, she completed her work experience at the Boys & Girls Club of Southwest County. Maria graduated from Elsinore High School in June 2010.
Abraham Garcia, a Rubidoux YOC participant, was a high school dropout. He started at RCOE’s “Come Back Kids,” a YOC high school credit recovery program and soon began his work experience at Cold Stone Creamery. After two weeks, he was hired for a part-time position. Abraham then began our YOC program “Step Into College,”that directs disconnected youth to college with the help of a mentor. June 2010, Abraham graduated from high school and will attend Riverside Community College in the summer.
Marta Pineda joined the Empower Youth Program in September 2009. In October 2009, Martha started her work experience at Anchor Blue Clothing Store. Martha is currently the president of the Empower Youth Council. She graduated from West Valley High School on June 2010. She earned a $2,000 scholarship from the Hemet Unified Governing Board and was awarded a full scholarship from UC Riverside. Martha plans to major in sociology at UCR to become a social worker.
www. RivCoYouth .com www. .com Congrats JuMP’sCool in creating a publication to help our youth find success:
LeapRC Magazine rocks!