Alberto’s Story: Friendship and Confidence Through SUN
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For 13-year-old Alberto, SUN is a place to stay connected, active, and happy during the summer months. He first joined because his friends were participating, but quickly discovered much more. Through SUN, Alberto has met new people, played football, and joined Elevate, a class that combines learning with fun outings like bowling and trips to the Portland waterfront.
“On the last day of school I thought, ‘Dang, I have to go two months without anybody to talk to.’ But then I came here, and every day I got to wake up, talk to teachers, talk to students. It was just a good thing to do.”
Alberto has been part of SUN since elementary school, where he remembers Lego building projects that fueled his creativity. Now, as he prepares to enter eighth grade, he looks forward to football season and the chance to meet new classmates.
The program has given him not only friendships, but also confidence and a positive routine – proof that structured summer activities can make all the difference for students navigating transitions.
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- Volunteer with us and share your time, energy, and encouragement with students who need caring adults by their side.
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When we come together, we show our young people that their dreams matter—and that this community will always stand with them.