CENTRAL VALLEY TRAINING CENTER
GAZETTE
June 2026
News from across our programs
For every day to be meaningful, inclusive and empowered.
COVER STORY · FRESNO EAST
Off to the Shore but We Will Miss Her More at Fresno East
Pictured: Program Manager Moriah G., former Program Manager Brionna H., Program Director Tou L., Program Manager Jonsebastian G. Second photo: Rafaela P., Brionna's bread and butter
Our dearest former Program Manager, Brionna H. has left half of her heart at Central Valley Training Center as she is now chasing her dreams of living in the Central Coast in the lovely city of Cambria. Brionna was with the company for 10 years and has left a lasting impact on not only the staff but her "muffins" aka the Participants. Brionna poured her heart into CVTC and the Participants. Her lasting impact will be continuously felt here at Fresno East. Brionna mentioned that it was a hard decision to make due to loving the Participants with all her heart. However, all of Fresno East was extremely happy that Brionna was able to follow her dreams. Us here at Fresno East pinkie promise to take care of your muffins, Brionna, and we will make sure to follow all the specific instructions you have demanded we continue to do.
This isnt a goodbye, but we will see you later on the Central Coast.
Written by Moriah G., Fresno East Program Manager
IN THIS ISSUE
MESSAGE FROM THE CEO
“I believe we can reach 1,200 and beyond while continuing to maintain the quality, compassion, and heart that define CVTC.”
Bud Mullanix, Chief Executive Officer
As we move quickly through the first six months of the year, I’m reminded just how fast time passes. I encourage each of you to take time to enjoy your families, appreciate the moments that matter most, and maintain balance in both your personal and professional lives.
At CVTC, we continue to experience exciting growth. Growth brings new opportunities, professional development, and expanded possibilities for our staff and organization. But what excites me the most is not simply getting bigger — it's the impact that growth allows us to make. Every new participant we serve represents another life we can help enrich, another individual we can encourage, support, and empower with meaningful choices and opportunities.
Our mission has always been about people first. Watching our participants grow, achieve goals, build relationships, and experience fuller lives is what drives everything we do. That is the true measure of our success.
As many of you know, one of our major organizational goals has been reaching 1,000 participants served. Thanks to your dedication and hard work, we are on pace to achieve that milestone very soon. And once we do, we will continue pushing forward. Why stop at 1,000? I believe we can reach 1,200 and beyond while continuing to maintain the quality, compassion, and heart that define CVTC.
I want to sincerely thank each and every one of you from the bottom of my heart for your commitment, effort, and passion. The work you do every day truly matters. Let’s continue striving to enjoy what we do, support one another as a team, and most importantly, always remember to love and care for our participants.
Together, we are making a difference.
Pictured: Sweeping J. M., vacuuming Andrea J., cleaning windows Brandon K.
JACKSON
CVTC Jackson Participants Gain Hands-On Vocational Training
Here at CVTC, we strive for success and growth. We recently had the opportunity to provide vocational training for our participants by having them assist with cleaning and preparing our new CVTC building at the Valley Springs location. This hands-on experience allowed participants to build valuable job skills while contributing to an exciting new space for our program.
Written by: Janet R., Jackson/Valley Springs Program Director
MODESTO NORTH
Team NOVA's Woodshop Success at Modesto North
Team NOVA's woodshop class has quickly become a participant favorite! What began as a special project to create handcrafted items for June's Art Hop, including beautiful planter boxes and a large outdoor chair for the raffle, was such a success that the team decided to make woodshop a permanent class. Since then, participants have continued to build their woodworking skills while creating meaningful projects, with their most recent accomplishment being a custom wooden garden sign for their raised planter box. This ongoing class gives participants the opportunity to learn new skills, express their creativity, work together as a team, and take pride in the lasting projects they build. We can't wait to see what creative projects Team NOVA dreams up for our September Art Hop!
Written by: Courtney K., Modesto North Program Director
Photographed: Tomas E., Jared G., Javon P., Gloria M., Manny B., Stephanie V., Hilario L., Savann N., and Jaheim T.
FRESNO WEST
Fresno West Shines at Special Olympics Bocce Ball! Team CVTC Avengers
Pictured: CVTC Team Avengers
Excitement, teamwork, and determination were on full display as our Fresno West participants James N., Richard C., Jabrell M., and Danny C., stepped onto the bocce court for this year’s Special Olympics competition!
Guided by their dedicated coaches, Justin L. and Lucy L., the team brought their A-game, demonstrating incredible focus, sportsmanship, and unity throughout the event. Their hard work truly paid off as they proudly secured second place, bringing home the silver medal!
From strategic plays to encouraging one another every step of the way, this team exemplified what it means to compete with heart. Their achievement is not only a testament to their effort but also to the strong support system behind them.
A special shoutout goes to Ellis A. for coming out to cheer on the team; your support made the day even more meaningful! And a huge recognition to Program Manager Lidia S., who was the team’s biggest cheerleader, alongside many other amazing supporters who truly showed up and showed out, filling the day with encouragement, energy, and pride for our athletes.
We couldn’t be prouder of our Fresno West athletes and coaches. And the best part? They’re already gearing up and excited to come back even stronger next year! Way to go, Team Fresno West!
Written by: Sarah M., Fresno West Program Manager
Pictured: Armando G. and Daniel M.
MODESTO SOUTH
Acts of Kindness at Modesto South
When it comes to acts of kindness, participants at Modesto South are proud to share their good deeds. With weekly volunteer opportunities, they routinely put forth their best efforts to make differences in the lives of others. Whether they are serving others at the Gospel Mission, Salvation Army, or tending the local community garden, their smiles and hearts are truly changing the world.
Written by Ben W., Modesto South Program Director
STOCKTON EAST
A Valued Partnership in Participant Care At Stockton East
CVTC Stockton East wants to recognize Professor Peter Shin and his cohort of Delta College Psych Techs as the unspoken heroes that they are. Every year, they bring 1 to 2 cohorts to complete their externship. They bring a fresh perspective of clinical observation as they enhance their skills in crisis intervention, therapeutic rapport, and learn how to best support our participants with daily living skills. It has been an extreme pleasure to offer a space of collaboration as well as having students apply to work in our facilities once they have completed their studies. CVTC participants and staff hold tremendous gratitude for continuing to volunteer their time to support our participants in reaching their potential.
Written By: Danielle H. Stockton East Program Manager
Pictured: Professor Peter Shin and his cohort of Delta College Psych Techs
VISALIA
Everyday Heroes: Meet Alex at Visalia
Pictured: Alex B.
At our program, we are fortunate to meet many inspiring individuals, and Alex is truly one of our everyday heroes. Known for his creativity, kindness, and positive spirit, Alex brings joy to everyone around him.
Whether he is creating artwork, writing songs, or simply sharing a smile, Alex has a special way of brightening the lives of both staff and peers. His artistic talents and uplifting attitude make our community stronger and more connected.
Alex’s determination and accomplishments extend beyond the program as well. He proudly participated in the Special Olympics, where he earned a gold medal.
More than anything, Alex reminds us that being a hero is not just about winning medals, but about spreading positivity, encouraging others, and making the world a little brighter every day.
Written by: Gabriel R., Visalia Interim Program Manager
SACRAMENTO
Sacramento’s Volunteer Spotlight: Javon
Pictured: Javon J.
Javon continues to make a meaningful impact through his volunteer work with the local food bank alongside CVTC’s vocational team. Through his consistency, strong work ethic, and positive attitude, Javon has become a valued member of the volunteer team and was recently recognized as Volunteer of the Month by the food bank he helps support. Staff at the food bank continue to acknowledge Javon for his dedication and willingness to help wherever needed.
Javon’s success highlights the importance of community partnerships and ongoing support systems that encourage growth, confidence, and independence. With encouragement from the vocational team and his continued determination, Javon continues to build strong connections within the community while making a difference through his everyday actions.
Written by Emilia A., Sacramento Case Manager
NEWS
Growing With Purpose
CVTC continues to grow! As of May 26, we proudly opened our newest location in Valley Springs, expanding our ability to serve even more individuals throughout California. The growth doesn't stop there—new sites are also coming soon to Stockton South, Tracy, Dublin, and Fresno as we continue our commitment to providing quality services and creating opportunities in communities across the state.
Pictured: Merced Participants
MERCED
Advocacy Council Activism at Merced CVTC
CVTC Merced proudly celebrated Autism Awareness Month with an expanded April Autism Walk honoring individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder and raising visibility, support, and community connection. The event’s strong turnout was a meaningful reflection of the community’s shared commitment to inclusion, advocacy, and celebration.
Advocacy at the State Capitol
CVTC Merced and the Fresno West Consumer Advocacy Council also proudly represented their communities at the 2026 Disability Community Advocacy Conference, “DisCo at the Capitol,” in Sacramento, where advocates came together to champion essential disability services and advance inclusion, independence, and equal access.
Together, CVTC Merced and the Fresno West Consumer Advocacy Council joined advocates from across California to help ensure the voices of individuals with disabilities continue to be heard, valued, and represented.
Written by: Alisca C., Merced Program Director
STOCKTON WEST
CVTC Stockton West Participants Help Prepare New Stockton South Site
Exciting progress is underway at Central Valley Training Center as participants take an active role in helping prepare CVTC’s newest location, Stockton South, for its upcoming opening. CVTC is planning to open a third Stockton site, with a projected launch between July and August 2026. The new location will be located at: University Park 928 E. Rose St. Stockton, CA 95202.
As part of the preparation process, participants have been volunteering by helping clean, organize, move materials, and prepare spaces throughout the new site. Their hard work, teamwork, and positive attitudes have already made a meaningful impact as the program gets ready to welcome individuals and families into the new environment. Participants worked side by side with staff members, encouraging one another, sharing responsibilities, and taking pride in helping create a welcoming space for the community. These opportunities not only help prepare the site, but also allow participants to build independence, confidence, and valuable life skills through hands-on community involvement.
The new Stockton South location represents another exciting step forward for CVTC and its continued commitment to providing person-centered services and meaningful opportunities for growth, connection, and inclusion. Every box moved, area cleaned, and task completed reflects the heart of CVTC — a community built on teamwork, compassion, and individuals supporting one another to achieve great things together.
Written by: Donald M, Stockton West Program Manager
Photographed: Stockton West Participants at Stockton South
