Can you believe Christmas and the New Year are almost here? It seems like just a few weeks ago we moved into our new corporate office. This holiday season is special because many of the youth we serve have never had a Christmas. Well, it's time for that to come to an end! Special thanks to our many Angel Tree sponsors. Because of your generosity you will provide everlasting memories this holiday season for the youth of KYJO. You all are truly a blessing. Many youth will finally experience what it is like to celebrate Christmas like a family. So on behalf of the KYJO youth I would like to say "Thank You!"

I want to also spotlight two guest speakers that took time out of their busy schedules and came to speak to the young men of KYJO during our "Becoming a Man" program.  Ricky White and Joe Boy Perez, like me, are also Fresno State football alumni that had to battle through trials and tribulations to get to where they are now. Although both lived different lives and had different story lines, the message was the same...Your outcome in life is your own destiny! Learn from your past mistakes and know that those mistakes/choices will mold your future. So make the right decisions! To learn more about these gentlemen and their organizations you can visit www.kyjo.org/spotlight. Thank you again fellas!

The residents also had an opportunity to have their very own holiday party at the Dante Club where they chose a Mexican style dinner. Special thank you to Jodi for putting the party for the residents together. This was also their night for recognition. The residents had an opportunity to vote for their house staff of the year for each house. It also included year-end awards for the residents that were voted by KYJO staff: Character Counts, Perseverance, and Academic Achievement. All three individuals who won well deserved their perspective awards. Congrats to them all!

Well it didn't stop there. Later that week KYJO staff had our holiday party and by far this was the best in KYJO history! This was truly a night of recognition for staff as well. But of course it wouldn't be a party without some entertainment lol. A "Big Thank You" to Lead Staff Decovan, better known as Mr. D, for providing us with some laughter while he performed his standup comedy. Yes, I was the butt of most of his jokes but it's ok because it was funny. The stand-up wasn't the only entertainment we had, Mr. D also battled Mr. Kenny on the dance floor! Let's just say it was entertainment filled and Kenny went out with a BANG! Thanks to all the staff sponsors and supporters who came out. KYJO truly appreciates you!

Our many wishes to Kenny as he will be leaving us to continue his education in Portland. Being that helping hand and being their through the years for everyone, you will truly be missed. We wish you well in all your endeavors. You will always be a part of the KYJO family!

With your continued efforts and support we can continue creating opportunities for the youth in our community.
Thank you and Happy Holidays!

Sincerely,

Kevin Jordan

Executive Director

• Ray Z's Trees:
• JC Orozco Reforestation:
• Rivas Family Quality Trees : 5211 W Shaw Ave Fresno, CA 93722
• Discount Trees: 5065 N Golden State Blvd Fresno, CA 93722