Family Service Agency (FSA) of Santa Barbara County will host Youth Culture and Gang Activity in Lompoc, a virtual workshop to help parents understand more about gangs in the Lompoc community and what they can do if they suspect their child is involved with one.

Workshops in English and Spanish will take place via Zoom on Sunday, Aug. 16, 3-4 p.m. in English; 4:15-5:15 p.m. in Spanish. Participants can register online at BeTheDifferenceSB.org and attend the meeting using their phone, tablet or computer.

The workshop will include a keynote speech by Sgt. Chip Arias, who has 20 years of experience in investigations of gangs and narcotics. Other panelists are Ony Agbodike, Lompoc High School resource officer; Vanessa Connors, FSA’s Family Support Services program coordinator; and Christine Forbes, FSA’s School Services supervisor.

“It’s important for parents to understand the signs of gang involvement and the prevalence among local teens,” said Lyn Shirvanian, workshop coordinator. “We also want to provide them with concrete recommendations and resources so that they can take steps to reduce their child’s involvement and strengthen their family unit.”

The Youth Culture and Gang Activity Workshop is funded by a grant from Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) to provide youth mental health first aid and community education. Family Service Agency has partnered with Mental Wellness Center and the YouthWell Coalition in this effort called Be The Difference Santa Barbara.

For more information, visit BeTheDifferenceSB.org.
                                                                                                                                                                                                               
Family Service Agency of Santa Barbara County is a nonprofit social service agency serving Santa Barbara County since 1899. Operating as Santa Maria Valley Youth and Family Center in Santa Maria and Little House By The Park in Guadalupe, FSA helps the community’s most vulnerable children, families and seniors meet their basic needs while simultaneously addressing mental health needs.

All services are provided free or on a sliding fee/donation scale and no one is denied assistance because of an inability to pay. Visit fsacares.org or call 805-965-1001 for more information.