The continuation of our PALS (Peer Assistance Leadership and Service) program at Gus Garcia YMLA is off to an incredible start! Today, our campus proudly welcomed our very first visit from the LASA High School PALS, kicking off what promises to be an inspiring year of mentorship, growth, and connection.
Austin ISD’s PALS program has been empowering students since 1980, helping young people build confidence, strengthen communication skills, and embrace a servant-leader mindset. At YMLA, we are honored to carry this legacy forward through a powerful cycle of mentorship: LASA High School students mentor our YMLA PALS, and in turn, our PALS share that leadership with the younger students they support across the district.
Earlier this month, our young men visited Barbara Jordan Elementary, and the experience was a remarkable success. They returned to campus energized, motivated, and ready to serve. Now, after spending the day learning from their older peers at LASA High School, our PALS are returning with even more tools, strategies, and confidence to strengthen their work with elementary students.
Becoming a PALS member is both a privilege and a responsibility. Students must maintain strong academics, positive behavior, and good attendance, and participation requires both teacher and parent permission. If a student begins to struggle academically, we put learning first—but they still remain a valued part of the PALS community, contributing in meaningful ways while continuing to grow.
Today’s visit marks an exciting milestone in the continued expansion of YMLA’s PALS program. With the guidance of LASA High School mentors and the enthusiasm of our own student leaders, we are building a powerful chain of leadership—one that strengthens not only our campus, but our wider Austin ISD community.
A huge shoutout and heartfelt thank you to Mr. Saldana, LASA High School, for coordinating and bringing the LASA PALS to our campus!
Your support and dedication made today’s mentorship visit possible, and our young men benefited tremendously from the leadership, guidance, and positive energy the LASA PALS shared. Thank you for helping strengthen this powerful partnership and for investing in the growth of our YMLA PALS. We appreciate you!
We look forward to many more visits, many more connections, and many more opportunities for our young men to step into the leaders they are destined to become.
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