SANTA CRUZ, Calif.- Central Coast News believes in order to build a stronger community, you must invest in it. That's why we've created the One Million Dollar Community Investment. So we went to Santa Cruz to learn why a community center wants more young adults to know, there's always an alternative to a life on the streets.
Assistant director O.T. Quintero said Barrios Unidos is all about changing behavior and providing a safe haven to help kids and young adults avoid a life of crime.
"They're spiritually bankrupt, whether it be from neglect, abuse or just trauma and they have this gaping hole inside and they're looking, how do I fill it?" Quintero said.
Quintero said one way they're filling the need for positive energy is by giving some a chance to work. B.U. Productions is a silk screening business allowing these young adults to learn valuable life skills.
"It creates a place for youth to come in and really showcase their talent," Quintero said.
The center many other programs focusing on four areas, community outreach, youth development, community economic development and transitional help from incarceration through prison project. Quintero said they work with anyone who's willing to make some major life changes.
"And letting them know that there is a place that they can come, they're not going to be judged and we're gonna provide every support that we can, whether it be technical or whether it be personal," Quintero said.
Support from Barrios Unidos comes in many forms.
"Employment skills, employment opportunities, but most importantly, introducing them into the work culture, making them feel good about themselves and really contributing to the community," Quintero said.
Barrios Unidos opened it's doors 35 years ago and continues to help thousands in Santa Cruz County.
