Mar Vista Family Center

By youth for youth (byfy) program:byfy offers a one-of-a-kind peer focused, parent engagement program based on the shared responsibility model that features an array of activities for children and youth from socioeconomically disadvantaged backgrounds. Participants have access to a safe space with tutors, mentors, peers, internet, and computers. Activities include after-school tutoring, preteen groups, college prep services, leadership development, stem, and creative arts alongside health, including mental health, and wellness programming. Participants lead activities for younger children, providing them opportunities to develop leadership skills in a supportive environment. The program successfully engages youth and their families by providing the tools for them to make healthy choices as well as enhancing confidence, personal development, and youth empowerment.

Community program:the community program facilitates the personal growth and life skills development of local residents through use of the shared responsibility model so they can contribute to a safe and vibrant environment for themselves, their families, and their community. Mvfc facilitates monthly community meetings, where participants discuss issues affecting them and find solutions together. Community members work together with mvfc to plan a variety of community events like neighborhood clean-ups, festivals, and health education workshops. Families from the community maintain and make decisions on what they grow in the community garden at mvfc. Mvfc also provides case management and referrals to mental health and other partner organizations as needed to support the growth and change community members seek.

Early childhood education program:the early childhood education program is divided into two sub-programs: baby & me and preschool. Baby & me serves children 0-3, the first step in guiding individuals in early learning and developing their socio-emotional and motor skills. The preschool program welcomes children ages 3-5, following a comprehensive and integrated curriculum that enables children to obtain and use skills in all areas so that they continue to successfully develop. Children, parents, and other caregivers are introduced to and begin participating in the shared responsibility model as well as health and wellness programming. In addition, parents and caregivers serve as assistant teachers weekly and are provided with training, support, and peer learning.