For this September’s “Faces of FACCES”, we’re highlighting Davida and her son, Daniel, whose experience with the FACCES Life-Ready Teen (LRT) Program has helped him grow in confidence, communication, and leadership.
Daniel has been an active participant in the LRT Program, regularly engaging in activities like the monthly T.A.L.C. Series where teens lead conversations based on what they care about or are interested in, and the youth-led Saturday Cafe, where LRT’s gain hands-on experience preparing and serving meals for community members.
Through the program, Daniel says he has noticed a difference in the way he communicates and expresses himself. “I feel like I’ve gotten a lot better at communicating, being able to express how I’m feeling about something, or being able to present an idea to someone,” Daniel said.
His growth is something his mom, Davida, has noticed, too. “I noticed he does learn a lot through the programming here… and he has opened up and come out of his shell a little more,” Davida said.
The Saturday Cafe has also become a special part of their experience. Davida enjoys seeing Daniel put his skills into action. “I enjoy coming in the Saturdays that I can to have at the cafe, I really enjoy that. I’ve come in and I’ve seen Daniel back there working in the kitchen and it’s nice. I’m proud of him,” she said.
For Davida, seeing Daniel become more confident and engaged has reinforced just how valuable the LRT Program can be for teens. “I would say that it is really beneficial for the kids to be in this program. It’s really benefitted him a lot and I would encourage other families to look into doing this program,” she said.
Daniel’s story is a reminder of what can happen when youth are given opportunities to learn, lead, and grow in a supportive community. Through programs like Life-Ready Teens, FACCES continues to create spaces where youth can build skills and confidence that extend far beyond the program itself.
