Foothills parents and youth have a lot to be proud of this holiday season: Flintridge Prep, Crescenta Valley High and Flintridge Sacred Heart Academy each qualified teams or individuals to the CIF cross-country championships, the CVHS mock trial team placed third in this year’s competition, student musicians and vocalists from Crescenta Valley and La Cañada high schools were honored with national merit awards and invitations to perform in honors ensembles, and the CVHS Falcons are the CIF state football champions!

Watching the celebratory cheers as the football team rolled down Honolulu Avenue during the Montrose Christmas Parade, I could not help but feel incredibly blessed, blessed to represent beautiful and diverse communities in Southern California and work with some of the most inspirational people I have ever met.

Not a day goes by in our Assembly District that I don’t hear another amazing story about how our citizens are fighting for a better, safer world for our children. Among those unsung heroes are the volunteers who support The Fire House Youth Center and Prom Plus.

The Fire House is a drop-in center for youth, located right here in the Crescenta Valley, where teens can connect with their peers while enjoying food, recreational activities, study space with tutors to assist with homework and college/job applications, and a diverse group of mentors.  Several months ago, the Fire House hosted a girl’s empowerment summit to talk about issues of bullying, internet safety, body image, and academic success. I’m excited to be working closely with the Fire House to organize a similar summit for boys in the coming months.

Like the Fire House, Prom Plus provides Crescenta Valley High School students a safe, drug- and alcohol-free space for students to go after prom. Partnering with the Crescenta Cañada YMCA, volunteers and supporters from across the Crescenta Valley host a party, complete with a mechanical bull and zip line, for more than 400 students who attend each year. Last month, at my community coffee in Montrose, I was happy to present a check for $500 to Prom Plus in support of their prom night festivities.

As we gather with our neighbors, friends, and family members to celebrate the holiday season, I encourage you to take a moment to reflect on the young people in our community in need of a helping hand, and the many adults who work tirelessly to help them succeed.  Working together, we can help ensure that every child achieves their full potential.

I wish you a safe, healthy, and joy-filled holiday season. If there is anything I can do to assist you or your family, please do not hesitate to contact my district office at (818_ 558-3043.

  Mike Gatto