Improving the Life Chances of Vulnerable Youth
Dear AES Friends and Family,

Thank YOU! As 2018 comes to an end, we want to take a moment to thank you! All of our successes, the positive impact made, the lives of young people that have improved - it is only possible with the support and participation of people like you. So thank YOU for empowering young people and being a part of our AES family.

And get ready for 2019! We are thankful for the growth and success of our programs in 2018, but even more excited for what is to come in 2019. Recruitment of more young people to join SYA. More graduates from the DLA. Connecting more adult mentors with youth. Get ready! Together we will improve the life chances of vulnerable youth!
DLA Participants Prepare to Graduate
Davitto Leadership Academy (DLA) participants continue to bond with their adult and peer mentors as they create plans to address community issues. As shared by Evan, one of our DLA Peer Mentors, "It is gratifying to see my peers pass on the knowledge we have accumulated to help our mentees create their passion projects. This has been an overwhelming opportunity to see youth eager to create change in their communities."

DLA Level 2 is Almost Complete!
In early January, participants will practice public speaking skills and learn how to dress professionally. They will receive a $125 gift card to purchase professional clothing to wear to the Graduation Event on January 19th, where they will present their passion projects. As shared by Ana, our DLA Coordinator, "I am overjoyed with excitement to witness the amount of growth and progress within each of our Participants, Mentors, and Staff. The DLA will continue this momentum in the upcoming year!"
SYA Advocates and Celebrates
In October and November, the Sacramento Youth Alliance - Community Action Team (SYA-CAT) focused on engaging and educating young voters. The Ballot Ready voter engagement tool was used to inform young voters about candidates, voting centers, and mail in ballot procedures. SYA-CAT members also educated voters about Measure U and how it can impact funding for youth programs.

In early December, the SYA-CAT celebrated their 2018 accomplishments with a holiday party. Members celebrated, reflected on their year, and discussed plans for 2019.
AES Attends National OYU Conference
Earlier this month, AES took a team of 6 to the Opportunity Youth United 2018 National CAT Convening in Washington, DC. Taylor, our outgoing SYA-CAT Coordinator, and Erica, our incoming Coordinator, presented the accomplishments of our SYA-CAT from this past year. Our team connected with CATs from across the nation and set local and national priorities for 2019 to help improve the life chances of youth living in poverty.

As shared by Erica, "I am beyond excited to transition into the SYA Coordinator position. I am ready to be the stepping stone for youth to use to their greatest advantage. I was able to feel the national movement our SYA-CAT is a part of at the OYU conference in DC, and it made me 100 times more excited!"
Thank You to Our Generous Donors
Thank YOU to everyone who gave to the 27 Year
Celebration Campaign!
Scott Anthony
Bill Au
Gwen Ayliffe
Bette Berg
Steve Blades
Derrick Booth
Jake Brymner
Anthony Carter
Bertha Carter
Charles Carter
Theo Claire
Bernie Davitto
Sheila Davitto
Bill Dendle
Cat Doggett
Patrick Dowlen
George Eastham
Glenn Freitas
Kathy Foster
Lisa Foster
Penelope Amiri Ghaemmaghami
Steve Goldstein
Jeff Green
Jennifer Halford
Deanna Jarquin
Randall Jarquin
Richard Jonas
Stephan Jonas
Orissa Kruse
Phil Littman
Chuck Mason
Michelle McDonald
Paul Mehling
Tom Phillips
Ellen Read
Susan Ryan
Shane Snyder
Ana Taukolo
Aaron Thao
Maikhou Thao
Gerald Turner
Tamara Walters
Your generosity raised over $8100 to support AES programs!
Volunteer with AES
Want to empower youth?
No matter how much time you have to give, you can make a difference! AES is looking for volunteers to help with our programs - and we want YOU to join us! Sign-up today and join our volunteer team!
Your Support Positively Impacts Young People
Pipeline and my Pipeline Mentors are honestly the best thing that has ever happened to me. They taught me that no matter where you come from, what you look like, or who your family is, you can be successful.

- San Juan high school student,
Pipeline to College Program
When I am around my SYA family, I really feel like I can make change. They are helping me build my voice while making sure it gets heard. People of my generation are so passionate, and SYA helps them gain the skills to express and achieve their vision.
- Natomas Charter high school student,
SYA Member and DLA participant
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