visit camp gonzales

Today we went to visit Camp Gonzales in Malibu. It was the annual Christmas Party with delicious "In and Out Burgers" served from their truck. The Unusual Suspects were there showing a bit of their theatre program- it was incredible to see these kids get up and goof off, come out of their shell and show who they are- kids. There was another program of writing, poetry, rap music and they were amazing! I was so moved to be able to see other programs have the experience we do with these minors in juvenile hall!

Today felt like one of the best days of the year for me! I am so grateful to be a part of working with kids in juvenile hall. Looking at the programs gave me a chance to see what we do too, and I am so touched and blessed. When I sat down to eat I looked at the kid behind me and I knew him from our yoga program at Central Juvenile Hall. He smiled and nodded, said "yeah" he remembered me. Then I saw a few boys wave and come up to talk to us. STILL- they were asking where they can get yoga when they get out!!!

AMAZING!!!

The picture is of Mary Newman at Central Juvenile Hall- taken by Ixel Madrigal in the summer.