A Publication of San Gabriel Valley Habitat for Humanity | Issue 6.6
April 2013
Shantytown 2013 educational segments and being advocates for those who need affordable housing. They took that challenge and exceeded my expectations,” stated Steve Solis, Youth Programs Coordinator.
“I really liked that we had a bigger part in the decisions this year for Shantytown. I felt like we had more of a role in organizing and leading the event.” —Lindsay, Youth United Leadershi p Committee member
It was a cold Saturday night in March. Most teenagers in the City of Pasadena were probably in the comfort of their own homes watching TV or socializing online. But not all of them. An estimated 125 teens took part in the Third Annual “Shantytown” overnight fundraiser at La Salle High School in Pasadena. Shantytown is a movement to build awareness of housing needs around the world and local solutions. Six high schools throughout the San Gabriel Valley area participated in the experience by building a cardboard city and staying overnight to advocate for affordable housing. Participants helped raise money for San Gabriel Valley Habitat for Humanity with all proceeds going towards the future Desiderio Build. For weeks preceding the event, the Youth United Leadership Committee (YULC) devoted time and effort to plan the event. They raised funds, secured approvals, made arrangements
for chaperones, obtained local food trucks and organized games and educational presentations. They also promoted the event through texts, facebook and other social media channels. Traditional promotional methods such as handing out flyers and pinning up posters about the event at their schools were also used. “YULC did a magnificent job with this year’s Shantytown. Their passion for raising awareness was evident in their commitment of time and energy. I had complete confidence in them taking on a bigger role not only with the details of organizing and promoting the event, but with presenting
The night was filled with plenty of activities, games and educational presentations. Students had food choices from participating food truck vendors (Fresh Fries, The Lobos Truck, Surf Taco and Mustache Mike’s Italian Ice. There was also a bake sale provided by participants to help raise funds for SGV Habitat builds. “You feel good when you help people. You don’t need to get high to feel happy. You just need to help people. And I’m so thankful to The LORD and to Habitat for Humanity.” Sandra Naccarati, SGV Habitat Homeowner. A highlight of the event was a family presentation by the Naccaratis who purchased a Habitat home in Monrovia. “We need people willing to help. Helping people is good. It’s beautiful how people can do this”, Sandra Naccarati told the students. “We’re really grateful. I thank God every day for people who helped us build our home. Thank you,” said son, Marco Naccarati (17 years old). Special thanks go to all the chaperones, volunteers, parents, La Salle High School Staff, SGV Habitat staff, and supporters of our affiliate. We couldn’t have done it without you. God bless you all!