Urban Scholars Alumni Attend 2018 Big Bear Winter Retreat

Every year SJLI’s Educational Equity team coordinates alumni retreats to remain connected with our Urban Scholars alumni, and support them as they navigate through life after high school. Retreats integrate activities that focus on camaraderie,  goal-setting, building community, developing trust and socio-emotional support. SJLI’s Alumni Retreats exist to provide youth with a newfound appreciation of nature outside of Los Angeles, and to take a break from the fast-paced lifestyle in the city to focus on their health and well-being. SJLI continued this aspect of our services, as we hosted an alumni retreat in Big Bear from January 26-28, 2018. The opportunity to continue serving youth that we have developed close relationships with allows staff to continue to offer supportive services provided and create opportunities for healing and personal growth. Alumni participated in a wide range of activities from skiing and snowboarding to conversations about race, class, gender and addressing trauma.