FLA Testimonials

The peer-to-peer networks formed at camp, and the accessibility of positive role models every step of the way, builds resiliency in youth and helps them accomplish their educational goals. Below are what some of the youth have said about their experience in FLA.

Jacqueline Limon, 15 years old, Chino, CA

"It was one of the greatest experiences of my life. It was very touching and I think that everyone should go through this program, especially if you are Latino. Since I got home from camp I became president of a club at my school. I wouldn't have done that if I didn't learn how to handle a meeting and lead people in the brainstorming process. Next year, I want to start an FLA club when I get more people from my area involved. I found out about the camp through my cousins who made it to Berkeley and Stanford because of the help they got in FLA."

"I'm so motivated to tell people about FLA. The camp didn't only focus on leadership. FLA also talked about family values and how we should eat at the table together once a day with our real families at home. My parents were really impressed when I told them about it so now we talk a lot more. My parents really liked how friendly the FLA alumni were with them at the parent orientation and also after the camp when they picked me up. They still can't believe how much I changed because of FLA. I'm so glad to be in it and now I want to go back every year. I don't care how hard it is to drive to all the events but I'm sure my parents will take me to them so I can be A-team at the next camp!"

Antonio Hernandez, 22 years old, Pittsburg, CA

Antonio Hernandez, FLA-East Bay participant since age 14, comments:

"I never thought that I could get into a four-year university. I remember going on a fieldtrip in the 5th grade to Los Medanos College and that's were I thought that I would go. No one in my family went to college, but it was FLA that inspired me to apply to a four-year university. It felt good to know what classes to take to get there, and that other people like me where making it at big universities like Stanford and UC Berkeley. I knew that I had peers that would help me out when it was time for me to apply. I was one of three FLA'ers at San Francisco State and we supported each other through the hard times. We also formed committees to put on programs for high school students back home."

Lauren Bouchereau, 14, San Fernando Valley

"When you get into your camp "family" at first, you don't know anyone. Then after the first session you really get close. It's so cool how you can get so close to people in just a few days. We tell each other everything. The great thing that I like about my camp family is that I can say outrageous things and they still get what I mean. They accept me like I am. I can say what I want to say."

"In your cabin, you also become a second family. The girls are great. We get to know each other and tell them anything. It's so cool to live with them at night like a second family!!! My mom signed me up without telling me but then she asked me to write an essay before she told me about FLA! Can you believe it? I thought it would be bad but its really not. I am sooooo glad my mom signed me up because I would have missed out so much! The lady at my mom's work is so cool for telling her about the camp. She is an FLAer and speaks really well and works well. I want to be like her."

-Lauren shared her thoughts while at Leadership Camp in August 2003.

To join FLA, contact: ProgramDirector@latinoleaders.org