Expectations

Executive Director

Hello, my name is John Norman. Over the past 16 years, I have held leadership positions within the non-profit youth development field for various organizations— YMCA, LEAPS After School Program, Hayward Parks & Recreation District, and the Boys & Girls Club. I am a graduate of California State University, Eastbay (CSUEB), I have obtained my undergraduate degree in Communications (2009) and my graduate degree in Leadership from Saint Mary’s College (SMC) in 2020. My passion stems from an unwavering belief that a strong systematic approach to youth development is the answer to the call-of-service for the 21st century, especially for youth at-risk. Our organization’s core values mirror my personal beliefs and my dedicated commitment to being an agent of change.

Additional Info: work cell (209) 361-6202 email jnorman@raisingyouthresilience.org, school site: Chavez

Initiatives: Rise Up Challenge & Virtual Step Show

Student Advocate and Site Coordinator

Hello, my Name is Albert Salazar. I had a very interesting upbringing. I was raised within a family of immigrants from Mexico, and my home life was dysfunctional and broken. The personal traumas I experienced as a youth, were a direct link to my at-risk behaviors. Something I always say, “Proving that one’s past never dictates their future”. I ultimately developed a passion for a career in law enforcement and discovered a passion for helping those, who like me, struggle with the dynamics of troubled youth.

Additional Info: work cell (209) 310-4003 email asalazar@raisingyouthresilience.org, school sites: Chavez High and Bush Elementary

Student Advocate/Mentor

Hello, my name is Kayla Mercado. I was born and raised in Stockton CA and graduated from Bear Creek High School. I played sports the majority of my life and earned a full ride athletic scholarship. I attended an HBCU in Oklahoma where I studied Criminal Justice and Psychology. I am currently in graduate school pursuing a dual master’s degree in counseling and forensic psychology. After about a year working in the juvenile justice system, I knew I wanted to work with children and families.

I’ve been working with youth and families for about 5 years now and I have successfully supported students who were struggling academically, emotionally or needed support with behavioral issues.

Additional Info: work cell (209) 905-6370, email kmercado@raisingyouthresilience.org, school site: Stagg High

Initiative: Mental Health Mentorship

Student Advocate/Mentor

Hi, my name is Sylvia Warner. I’m a proud wife, mother of four, and a passionate and self-motivated individual dedicated to serving my community. I have over ten years of experience working with children and families. I have also worked as a certified Group Home Administrator. I have extensive knowledge in mentoring, case managing and supporting youth in various environments including schools as well as level 14 group homes.

Currently, I’m a valuable team member in my community. As a mentor, I have extensive experience working with youth through 1 on 1 case management, hosting conflict mediations and facilitating social emotional learning groups. I always say, “I strive to be the caring adult our youth can always depend on”. I find that by meeting and greeting each youth with a smile, I can help them become the best that they can be.

Additional Info: Work cell (209) 905-6373, Email swarner@raisingyouthresilience.org, School site: Stagg High

Student Advocate/Mentor

Hello, my name is Alen Navarro was born in Mexico City, Mexico and raised in Stockton, California with my parents, two brothers and sister. I obtained a Bachelor’s degree in psychology while also enjoying the beach and forest at UC Santa Cruz. While in college, I realized my passion for helping others out in any capacity, including youth within my communities. I strongly believe that “the youth are our future ” and desires to be a catalyst for change in the lives of the young people I work with.
I also worked on the school campuses of Franklin High School in Stockton, Montezuma Elementary, and was also a Facilitator and Case Manager for an after-school program at the Kennedy Community Center.

My strong qualities make me a good fit to handle the social emotional development of the youth that I mentor. I am bilingual, being a native Spanish-speaker. I am very adaptable as shown in my commitment of transition, working from the elementary level to the high school level. In addition, I have excelled at facilitating groups, which is an integral component to the work done in the school campuses. Without a doubt, I think students would describe me as very approachable. I do so by putting myself out there, being a young vibrant soul, very relatable and takes the initiative in handling students’ needs when needed.
My favorite food is chicken wings, and I enjoy traveling and I’m a big fan of Marvel comics.

Additional Info: work cell (209) 905-6345, email anavarro@raisingyouthresilience.org, school site: Stagg High

Initiative: RYR Latinx Corner