Kids Club is all about giving kids an alternative to joining gangs. We organize fun activities that capture children’s imagination. We tap into that natural creativity that all children have. We show older kids and adults how to be good mentors and we make sure that kids learn what the world has to offer.

Barrios Unidos began as a community based peace movement in the violent streets of urban California in 1977. Incorporated as a non-profit in 1993, Santa Cruz Barrios Unidos established the mission to prevent and curtail violence amongst youth within Santa Cruz County by providing them with life enhancing alternatives

The Uniqueness of Barrios Unidos' Programs is our approach to the dilemma of youth violence. Our belief is that community workers who have experienced and overcome the challenges facing young people today are best able to assist them in choosing life affirming behavior. We focus on building positive self-esteem and cultural pride through meaningful activities, education and job training.

  1. " When we are really honest with ourselves we must admit that our lives are all that really belong to us. So it is how we use our lives that determines what kind of people we are. It is my deepest belief that only by giving our lives do we find life. I am convinced that the truest act of courage...is to sacrifice ourselves for others in a totally non-violent struggle for justice ."- Cesar Chavez


Barrios Unidos Kids Club

  1. ”The Beach Flats Community Center is the spirit and culture of  the neighborhood. When violence struck and kids died senselessly on the street, the center organized to bring people together. Using shovels, paint brushes and brooms as their weapons they planted trees and flowers, cleaned up garbage, organized kid’s art projects  in the park and painted beautiful murals on the walls. The center has brought new life to the Beach Flats. It is home grown. Our young people see adults organizing dances, preparing food for their neighbors, and reading to their children at night. The center challenges everyone of us to be the best that we can be.”

  2. --Nane Alejandrez, Barrios Unidos