Last month at our Mid Valley Family YMCA in partnership with California Volunteers, we hosted the California Men’s Service Challenge Launch Event.
Governor Gavin Newsom announced the investment of $5 million to create new paid service opportunities. Over the next two years, California Volunteers will combine these opportunities with thousands of existing paid California Service Corps positions and volunteer opportunities, asking 10,000 young men to step up as mentors, coaches and tutors.
This initiative highlights the urgent need for men to serve in California, and will encourage thousands of young men to volunteer and help make our communities thrive.
“Across California, young men face disconnection and uncertainty, yet they hold immense talent and leadership potential. Through service, we can help them find purpose, build careers and make a real difference. We’re calling on 10,000 men to lead and on organizations to join us as an investment in the next generation of mentors and coaches.”
Josh Fryday, GO-Serve Director and California Chief Service Officer
“Now more than ever, there is a need for boys and young men to feel a sense of purpose and connection. As the Center for Community Well-Being across the LA region, the YMCA of Metropolitan Los Angeles knows the power of service in shaping healthier, more connected communities and has long been a source of great mentorship and volunteerism. The LA Y is proud to partner with the California Men’s Service Challenge to call on our male Californians to join in, inspire service, and to foster roles that inspire leadership, resilience and build brighter futures for all.”
Victor Dominguez, President and CEO, YMCA of Metropolitan Los Angeles
Special thanks to our guest speakers,
California Chief Service Officer, Josh Fryday
Senator Caroline Menjivar
Assemblymember Jesse Gabriel
Assemblymember Mark Gonzalez
Youth Speaker, Jeff Diaz
Ameri-Corps, Nick Taxera
Following the public addresses, we held a Food Distribution activation. Our President and CEO along with Josh Fyday, and all event speakers participated in distributing food to Van Nuys community members, leading by example of giving service.
To learn more about the Men’s Service challenge, visit the official website at,