1. Toussaint Center for Teens without Homes Evolves into Academy of the Arts and Sciences
   By Martha Lepore
2. Looking at “A Children’s Village”
   By Bill Bolstad - Toussaint Youth Villages
3. Teens Compete During Trial Run at Being on Their Own
   By Jodi Cilley
4. A ‘Light’ for ALL
   By Michael Wall - Director of Planned Giving

Toussaint Center for Teens without Homes Evolves into Academy of the Arts and Sciences
By Martha Lepore

Like a train getting underway, the Toussaint Teen Center began slowly in 1992 in the heart of downtown San Diego as an emergency place to keep teens in need of a home safe, nurtured and in school. Over the years, the center has gained momentum, instilling in its 14 to 18-year-old residents a sense of pride in themselves and hope for a better future than just finishing school and getting a job.

September 30 will see the center hit full throttle when it is renamed the Toussaint Academy of the Arts and Sciences (TAAS). The milestone reflects the growth of the center’s ability to graduate residents who place 500 percent higher on standardized tests than in the past and are going to colleges in record numbers. This fall, for instance, graduates are attending National University, University of California Santa Cruz, Hofstra University and San Diego City College.

To mark the occasion, the public is invited to tour the Toussaint Academy of the Arts and Sciences on Thursday, September 30, from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m.  Those planning to come must make a reservation and will enjoy student-lead tours of TAAS, including an Art Walk featuring photos, paintings, clothing and furniture designs, and expressive performances by the teens. Bertrand of Bertrand at Mr. A’s and Mille Fleurs fame will provide delectable hors d’oeuvres as only he can.

To make a reservation, please contact Bill Bolstad: 619.446.2107 or bill.bolstad@neighbor.org.