Hi! My name is Joshua Paez Scamardella, and I just moved here from Orlando, Florida. This is my family’s first base, so everything was super new to me — new school, new house, new everything! At first, I was nervous because I didn’t know anyone here. I really missed my friends and family back in Orlando. I also think a lot about Venezuela, where my family is from, and how different things can feel sometimes.

Then I started going to the Youth Center, and that’s when everything started to get better — all thanks to Mr. Jay. He’s awesome! He’s the one who created really fun programs like Fear Factor Camp and Club Torch. Fear Factor Camp was crazy fun — we had to do all kinds of challenges that were a little gross but super cool! Club Torch is awesome too because we get to do activities that make us think, help others, and work as a team. Mr. Jay is super kind and funny, and he makes everyone feel like they belong. He helped me feel welcome from the first day.

Now I actually look forward to going to the Youth Center all the time. I’ve made new friends, and I feel like this is my place now. I’m really glad I met Mr. Jay and got to be part of what he built here. He makes the Youth Center more than just a place to hang out — it feels like a second home. Thanks, Mr. Jay, for everything you do and for making kids like me feel at home!