{"id":462295,"date":"2026-09-13T05:18:48","date_gmt":"2026-09-13T05:18:48","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-ca\/462295\/"},"modified":"2026-09-13T05:18:48","modified_gmt":"2026-09-13T05:18:48","slug":"a-healthy-dose-of-confidence","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-ca\/462295\/","title":{"rendered":"A healthy dose of confidence"},"content":{"rendered":"

\"\"<\/a><\/p>\n

The Star-News offers audio versions of articles using Instaread. Some words may be mispronounced.<\/p>\n

For 11-year-old Gael Villegas, the free after-school program at Casa de Salud has been about more than simply having somewhere to go when the school day ends.<\/p>\n

During more than a year at the National City youth center, Gael has discovered a new talent, made progress at school and become more independent and sociable, according to his mother, Carmen Sepulveda.<\/p>\n

\u201cHe loves it when he has his drum classes and Casa Warrior. Drum classes were something new for him, and as a mom, I was amazed at his first performance. The skills he showed playing were excellent,\u201d Sepulveda said.<\/p>\n

Gael is among the young people taking part in Casa de Salud\u2019s Youth After School Program, which provides a free place for National City youth ages 8 to 17 to relax, socialize and participate in activities after school.<\/p>\n

Elyana Delgado, recreation supervisor with the city of National City\u2019s Community Services Department, said the program typically sees 10 to 15 youth participating on any given day. Activities include video games, arts and crafts, basketball, soccer and homework help from recreation leaders.<\/p>\n

The schedule varies depending on the interests of the group. Youth can also take part in other programs offered at the Casa de Salud Youth Center, including Casa Warriors, music, STEAM, film, theater, Tagalog and Youth Empowerment.<\/p>\n

Delgado said staff members do more than supervise the young people.<\/p>\n

\u201cStaff serve as mentors, offering fun activities and guidance,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n

The program is designed to give youth a safe and engaging place to spend their afternoons while connecting them with opportunities to develop new skills and interests.<\/p>\n

\u201cYouth develop confidence through social interaction and exposure to new activities. They expand their skills and knowledge by participating in various programs at the Casa de Salud Youth Center, fostering personal growth and educational improvement,\u201d Delgado said.<\/p>\n

Sepulveda has seen that growth in her own son. She said Gael has become more independent and sociable, and that his participation in the CASA Learners program has helped him with reading and comprehension at school.<\/p>\n

\u201cHis teacher was surprised by the progress he made thanks to the CASA Learners program,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n

For families, Delgado said, the program also provides peace of mind. Parents can relax, run errands or tend to other children while knowing their children are in a safe environment.<\/p>\n

For Sepulveda, that peace of mind comes without an additional financial burden.<\/p>\n

\u201cIt means a lot to know that my son is in a safe and productive place without having to pay extra costs,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n

She also praised the staff, describing them as attentive and patient.<\/p>\n

\u201cThey\u2019re like a big family,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n

The program also gives young people opportunities to experience activities they might not otherwise encounter. Delgado recalled one youth describing the experience during a school break program.<\/p>\n

\u201cI have had so many firsts thanks to Casa de Salud\u2014I went on my first hike and my first pool day!\u201d<\/p>\n

Sepulveda said she would recommend the program to other National City parents because it is safe, free and encourages children to explore sports and other interests.<\/p>\n

She hopes Gael continues building his confidence and independence, continues enjoying the things he is passionate about and takes away good memories and lasting friendships from the experience.<\/p>\n

\"\"Gael Villegas<\/p>\n

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