IYT Rio Calaveras Impact Update: November 2025
- Kevin Akins
- Dec 26, 2025
- 3 min read
November in Review: Growth & Responsibility
This month at Rio Calaveras was defined by two powerful forces: looking outward and looking inward. Our students looked outward during an inspiring trip to UC Berkeley, envisioning a future where they belong on a university campus. Simultaneously, they looked inward during our violence prevention workshops, taking personal responsibility for the safety and culture of their community. Whether raising GPAs or setting standards for peer behavior, our Brothers proved this November that they are ready to lead.
College Access: The Berkeley Experience
Envisioning the Future at Cal
IYT students from Rio Calaveras had an incredible opportunity to explore college life up close at UC Berkeley!
Twenty-three students toured the historic campus, enjoyed a meal at the dining commons, and even caught an exciting basketball game. The highlight of the trip was hearing inspiring stories and advice from IYT alumni currently attending the university.
Experiences like these help our young scholars see firsthand that college is within reach. This hands-on exposure motivates them to set ambitious goals and imagine the vast possibilities that lie ahead.
Academic Achievement: Progress Over Perfection
Spotlight on Brother Ashaz
Brother Ashaz is our Mentee of the Month for his remarkable determination and commitment to growth. In just one semester, he raised his GPA from a 1.1 to a 2.9, proving that resilience and showing up every day truly pays off.
Ashaz continues to push himself, ask for help, and stay focused on his goals. He is setting an inspiring example for his peers that it is never too late to turn things around. Kudos to Brother Ashaz for this amazing achievement—keep shining!
Workshop Spotlight: Each One, Teach One
Students Leading the Charge on Community Safety
Last month, our students led a powerful workshop on preventing violence in our community. Centered on the theme “Each One Teach One,” the session encouraged students to not only make positive choices for themselves but also to share those lessons with at least one other person.
Students set personal goals such as:
Choosing positive friend groups.
Staying engaged in school activities.
Walking away from conflict.
They also brainstormed solutions for the broader community, discussing how to create safer spaces for youth and the importance of speaking up when something isn't right. Our students are proving that real change starts with them—and they are choosing peace on purpose.
Brother of the Month
Brother Julian
8th Grade
Brother Julian has stepped into the IYT community with impressive focus, enthusiasm, and leadership beyond his years. Though he is new to IYT, you wouldn’t know it by the way he consistently shows up and stays fully engaged.
He already embodies IYT’s core values through his effort, positive attitude, and respect for others. In just a short time, Brother Julian has become a strong advocate for his peers and an emerging student leader on campus—proving that commitment and character shine no matter when you start.
Leadership Update: Central Valley Board of Advisors
We're thrilled to announce our new Board of Advisors for IYT Central Valley! These dedicated individuals are deeply committed to moving the needle forward for young men of color.
Featured Advisor
Diane Ornelas
Social Services Case Manager, SUSD
"As a parent of a current IYT member, I have seen first-hand the impact the program makes on our youth."
Program Directory & Schedules
Program Manager: Nicole Davidson
Phone: 209-203-2876
Rio Calaveras Elementary School
Programming & Study Hall: Tuesdays (3:05 - 5:00pm), Wednesdays (1:55 - 5:00pm), & Alt. Fridays (3:05 - 5:00pm)
Study Hall: Tuesdays & Thursdays
Mentor & ParentEngagement
Parent Engagement Sessions: 120
Mentor Sessions: 73