November 2025 Update:
On October 22, SASF, in partnership with Sacramento Youth Center (SYC), concluded a five-week workshop, "8 Dimensions of Wellness," to help young people find their voice, manage their emotions, stay healthy, and build resilience in the face of life's challenges. The program was led by SYC's Clarissa Sainz and assisted by Ted Fong.
14 students from several Elk Grove Unified School District schools — including Monterey Trail High School, Franklin High School, and Toby Johnson Middle School — participated in the workshop. They discovered the importance of self-awareness, reaching out for help, and communicating openly about their struggles. For many, the workshop became a life-changing experience that reshaped how they view themselves and their potential.
Students wrote essays to address perseverance, self-discovery, and healing in their lives.
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My Journey Without Him
By Edyan Firth*, Monterey Trail High School, October 22, 2025
For me, one of my biggest obstacles in life was my father. In times of need, he never showed up and always made false promises. Read essay
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Basketball on My Mind
By Emmie Lee*, Toby Johnson Middle School, October 22, 2025
My mind was always racing and running, and it didn't want to stop. The thoughts would flood my head, screaming, "Why can't you be like them?" Looking around, I saw people who were so much better than me. I wished that I could be just like them. Read essay
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ABCs of Growth
By Sam Carr*, Franklin High School, October 22, 2025
When I entered high school, the difficulty with my workload increased drastically, and I was confronted with the reality of studying for the first time in Advanced Placement classes. Read essay
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Forced to Grow
By Ryan Fabrelli*, Monterey Trail High School, October 22, 2025
My mom is my life and more. Last year, she was diagnosed with cancer. It was a difficult moment in my life as well as hers. It was a time when I didn't know what to do, other than support her. Read essay
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The Pursuit of Knowledge
By Sky Lee*, Franklin High School, October 22, 2025
I’m still uncertain about my future career, but I hope that I continue with lifelong learning. I know that the more knowledgeable I become, the better I will become at any job, allowing me to branch into whatever field I want to pursue. Read essay
* A pseudonym
With programs like 8 Dimensions of Wellness, SASF Strive for Strength continues to provide a safe, inclusive environment where students can share their stories, connect with others, and grow in confidence. We teach that wellness is not about perfection, it's about making progress and having the courage to keep going.
If you would like to attend Strive for Strength or become a volunteer, please join our interest list.