Orange County Youth Organizers

“I’ve been involved for three years and I think within those three years I’ve grown more than probably the rest combined.” 
- Rachel, 2011 OCYO Graduate

Since I graduated from OCYO, its value has continued to grow clearer.  The lasting lessons I learned about communication, multiculturalism, nonviolence and leadership form a central part of my world view and work with diverse communities. 
Anson Stewart, Swarthmore College, Class of 2010, major: Engineering/Urban Studies

The Orange County Youth Organizers  (OCYO) creates a supportive environment for students to attain skills and knowledge so they may reach out to diverse communities of Orange County as part of a larger human relations and social justice movement.

OCYO is a year long internship designed to provide advanced human relations training to a diverse group of Orange County youth who are members of their school's BRIDGES Program.  Students meet monthly to discuss human relations issues, learn new activities and develop workshop and community presentations.  OCYO members further the mission of OC Human Relations by serving as youth representatives of the agency at community events as participants, presenters and facilitators.

In addition to monthly meetings, students in the program are invited to facilitate a number of presentations and workshops at local school and conferences. From emceeing in front hundreds of people to small workshops of 20, OCYO reaches hundreds of youth each year with their messages of respect, understanding and social resonsibility.

Each year approximately 20 students graduate from the program after meeting project and attendance requirements.    We invite you to read testimonials from OCYO graduates.

For more information about OCYO contact Maricela Jauregui at 714.567.7557