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Values in Action: Inspiration
Empowering Students to Be Kind to Themselves
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In May, students from Desert Sands High School participated in our Expect Respect – Be Kind to Yourself activity and Award Ceremony, where they explored the power of self-talk and how it shapes their thoughts, behaviors, and self-worth. In a brave and honest space, several students shared personal reflections on the impact of negative self-talk, touching on struggles with school performance, appearance, and peer comparisons. Through discussion and connection, they began to rewrite those internal messages with kindness and compassion.
Using A Window Between Worlds art therapy activity, students created mirror-themed self-portraits adorned with words and images that reflected what they value and admire about themselves. The transformation was visible—students began encouraging one another with uplifting affirmations, showing true growth in mindset. The event concluded with a moving award ceremony: eight students received certificates of completion and letters of recommendation, while seven more earned participation awards, recognizing their journey toward self-respect and resilience.
Valley Oasis served over 35 students this school year through our trauma-informed programs. We extend our deepest thanks to Britney Jimenez, Lead Counselor at Desert Sands; Eileen Monterrosa, our Advocate Coordinator, for leading the AWBW art therapy; and Ariana Ibarra, our Community Outreach and Education Coordinator, whose passion and dedication continue to inspire positive change in our youth. You are a shining example of the values we uphold at Valley Oasis.
| | Standing with Pride: Our Commitment to Inclusion | | | At Valley Oasis, inclusivity isn’t just a value—it’s a practice. As we celebrate Pride Month, we reaffirm our commitment to serving the LGBTQ+ community with dignity, respect, and compassion. Over the past year, our staff have completed LGBTQ+ cultural competency training, and our screenings reflect inclusive options for identity and expression. Whether through trauma-informed services or housing support, we strive to ensure every person, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity, feels seen, safe, and supported. | | | Caring Beyond the Campaign: Support Paw-sitive Hearts Today | Our Paw-sitive Hearts Initiative recently wrapped up its official campaign period, and we are deeply grateful to everyone who supported this meaningful cause. Through your generosity, we'll be able to provide essential supplies and emergency resources for the pets of individuals and families experiencing crisis or displacement. While the campaign has officially ended, the need continues—and so does the opportunity to give. Donations to the Paw-sitive Hearts Initiative are still being accepted and will continue to directly benefit the well-being of pets who bring comfort, stability, and companionship to those we serve. Thank you for helping us care for every member of the family—paws and all. | | Partner Spotlight: Faith in Action at Desert Vineyard | | | | | |
On May 22, Desert Vineyard Church generously hosted our Faith Leaders Workshop on Serving Our Unhoused Neighbors, uniting over 10 community partners and dozens of local faith leaders. The event empowered faith communities to respond to homelessness with compassion, strategy, and collaboration. Speakers from Victory Outreach, Desert Vineyard, LAHSA, and Valley Oasis shared faith-driven outreach models and funding insights, while a panel uplifted grassroots efforts like Meal and a Prayer and sack lunch programs.
Desert Vineyard has long been a steadfast partner, offering their space at no cost for resource fairs and now for this impactful workshop. We thank them and all participating partners for their commitment to supporting our unhoused neighbors. This workshop marked the beginning of a quarterly series designed to equip and connect faith leaders across the Antelope Valley. Desert Vineyard is located at 1011 E Ave I, Lancaster, CA, and can be reached at (661) 945-2777 or info@desertvineyard.org.
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Thrift Store Spotlight
Purpose in Every Purchase
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Our first-ever Memorial Day Lot Sale on Friday, May 23, 2025, was a huge
success—and it’s all thanks to YOU, our amazing community! In just a few hours
(1–5 PM), we raised over $1,040 in sales. Shoppers scored unbeatable deals on
clothing, shoes, baby items, furniture, and so much more. A huge thank you to
Tacos El Afro for donating $200.00 from the food sales made during the event—your support means so much!
Special shoutout to our incredible community partners who tabled with
us—AVPH, VOALA, MHALA, CCAV, NLSLA, Olive Support Services and Koinonia Family Services—thank you
for showing up and showing out!
If you missed it, don’t worry—we’re doing it again! Round 2 of our Lot Sale is
happening, and the deals are even better (and hotter) than last month’s. You don’t
want to miss out on this next wave of savings, community, and fun!
3030 E. Palmdale Blvd, Palmdale, CA 93550
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| | Advocate With Us: Stand For Homeless Services in the AV | | | | |
A looming 43% budget cut to the Coordinated Entry System (CES) will drastically impact how Valley Oasis serves individuals and families experiencing homelessness in the Antelope Valley. This funding reduction has already forced an enrollment pause in critical programs such as time-limited housing subsidies and prevention support.
Join us on June 18th at Legacy Commons in Palmdale at 5:30 pm to hear directly from our Chief Executive Officer, Sarah Perry, along with our Senior Director of Homeless and Housing Services, Angela Rai, and our Director of Communications and Community Impact, Elvia Aldaco Salazar and learn how you can help us keep our neighbors housed and safe—RSVP Today!
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