OUR MISSION

“Becoming World Changers”

Our Vision

The Youth Centers of Orange empowers children to become "World Changers" through character development, social interaction, and confidence-building. Serving underserved youth in Orange, the YCO provides a safe, supportive environment where children thrive. Programs focus on enrichment, academic support, and courage-building, addressing the needs of low-income families, many of whom face homelessness and other socioeconomic challenges. By fostering a sense of community and opportunity, the YCO helps children grow into confident, compassionate leaders.

Our Beliefs

  • We believe that by connecting youth with positive role models and opportunities to develop their character and follow their dreams we can build the future leaders that will continue the legacy of the City of Orange

  • We believe in fun with a purpose

  • We believe in and adhere to the time-tested youth development model of Belonging, Usefulness, Influence and Competency

  • We believe every child deserves the opportunity to follow their dream and we are committed to helping them achieve it

Our History

On April 2, 2017, we opened our doors to hundreds of eager youth and their families. Originally established as the Old Towne Boys & Girls Club in 2017, we opened in partnership with the Tustin Club, which had been running programs at Handy Park since 2013.

Then, in 2018, the Youth Centers of Orange was born, and became its own independent after school program serving the youth and families of Orange. By being Orange centered, "For Orange, By Orange, In Orange," we are ensuring this resource will be sustained for future generations in the city.

In June 2020 The Hub OC was able to come alongside the YCO to continue to help it grow and serve the families and youth of Orange!

Meet the Team

JOANNA FERMIN
Director of Operations
jfermin@ycorange.org

EDGAR GARNICA
Director of Programming
egarnica@ycorange.org

Founders & Board Members 

Founders:

  • The John & Liz Valentine Fund

  • The Peter & Mary Muth Trust

  • The Nancy Nelson Trust

  • The Community Foundation of Orange

  • Orange Rotary

  • Chapman University

Board Members:

  • Gary Remland: Owner of Remland Insurance

  • John Aust Ph.D: Owner John Aust Realty & CP Appraisers

  • Kevin Ritchie

  • Madison Aust: Madison is a licensed REALTOR and the Property Manager at John Aust Realty, as well as the Administrative Assistant for C P Appraisers, which are both located in Old Towne Orange