CENTRAL VALLEY TRAINING CENTER
GAZETTE
March 2026
News from across our programs
For every day to be meaningful, inclusive and empowered.
COVER STORY · STOCKTON WEST
Becoming More: Building Growth, Confidence, and Connection at CVTC
Pictured above: Stockton West Instructors
Becoming more, reflects CVTC’s mission to support individuals in reaching their full potential, both participants and staff alike. Our team plays a vital role in fostering an environment where growth, confidence, and personal milestones are recognized and celebrated, no matter how big or small. Through team building experiences, staff strengthen the patience, encouragement, and consistency needed to support participants as they try new things and build independence. Creating opportunities for connection and reflection allows our team to grow both personally and professionally in a friendly and FUN environment, which is why team building at Stockton West remains an essential part of what we do at CVTC. Check out one of our recent team building activities; our instructors’ smiles say it all.
Written by: Crystel L., Program Manager, Stockton West
IN THIS ISSUE
MESSAGE FROM THE CEO
“When we work together — sharing observations, celebrating improvements, and adjusting plans as needed — outcomes improve and confidence grows on all sides.”
Bud Mullanix, Chief Executive Officer
Building Progress, Purpose, and Possibility — Together
As we move forward into this season of growth, I want to take a moment to speak directly to our staff, the individuals we serve, and the families who trust us each day.
Our Behavior Management Day Programs are more than a service. They are communities built on dignity, structure, patience, and belief — belief in growth, belief in resilience, and belief that every individual can make meaningful progress when supported with the right tools and the right team.
To Our Participants
You are the reason we are here.
Every skill practiced, every goal achieved, every challenge worked through is a step toward greater independence and confidence. Progress does not always happen in big leaps. Sometimes it happens quietly — in small choices, calmer reactions, stronger communication, or trying again after a difficult moment.
Those steps matter. They add up. And we see them.
Your courage to show up each day and keep working toward your goals inspires us more than you may realize.
To Our Families
Thank you for your partnership and trust.
Behavior management is not a quick fix — it is a journey that requires consistency, collaboration, and compassion.
We recognize the strength it takes to advocate for your loved one, to stay engaged in the process, and to work alongside us in implementing strategies both at home and in the community.
We are committed to transparent communication, individualized planning, and measurable progress. When we work together — sharing observations, celebrating improvements, and adjusting plans as needed — outcomes improve and confidence grows on all sides.
To Our Staff
What you do is skilled, demanding, and deeply meaningful work.
Behavior support requires patience and perseverance, calm in the face of escalation, and professionalism rooted in evidence-based practices. It requires empathy balanced with structure, and compassion paired with consistency.
You are teaching coping skills. You are modeling regulation. You are reinforcing independence. You are building futures.
That is not easy work — and it matters profoundly.
Our Commitment Moving Forward
As an organization, we remain focused on: • Delivering individualized, data-driven behavior support • Maintaining safe, structured environments • Strengthening staff training and professional development • Partnering closely with families and support teams • Celebrating measurable progress and personal victories
We will continue investing in tools, training, and leadership development to ensure our programs reflect best practices and uphold the highest standards of care.
A Shared Mission
At the heart of behavior management is one simple but powerful belief: behavior is communication. When we respond with skill instead of judgment, with structure instead of frustration, and with consistency instead of reaction, growth becomes possible.
Every day, in every classroom, every session, and every interaction, we are shaping outcomes that extend beyond our program walls. We are building skills that strengthen homes, relationships, workplaces, and communities.
Thank you for being part of this mission.
Together, we are not just managing behaviors. We are building confidence. We are strengthening independence. We are creating possibility.
With gratitude and determination,
Bud Mullanix
Pictured from left to right: David, Kenney, Elizabeth, Angelica
SACRAMENTO
Giving Back, Growing Stronger
Sacramento’s satellite classroom has been volunteering at a local fish hatchery and learning what it means to give back to their community. During each visit, Kenny, Elizabeth, Angelica, and David help with cleaning and organizing while building responsibility and confidence. With support from CVTC staff, they are developing teamwork skills and growing more independent as they take pride in making a positive impact.
Written by: Emilia A., Case Manager, Sacramento
FRESNO
Becoming More at the Fresno Animal Shelter
Pictured: Top left: Carlos and Skylar. Top right: Carlos and Mario. Bottom left: Pete. Bottom right: Pete and Carlos at the Fresno Animal Shelter.
After months of thoughtful conversations and planning, Fresno West launched a new partnership with the Fresno Animal Shelter, creating paid internship opportunities for individuals who have a genuine interest in working with animals. Program Manager Arlena helped build the relationship through persistence and a shared commitment to inclusive employment in the community. What began as an opportunity for growth quickly became an opportunity for impact. With guidance from Job Coach Luis R., alongside Carlos, Pete, Skylar, and David B., interns help organize supplies, restock dog treats, and replenish blankets and the shelter has shared that they are no longer running low on essential items thanks to their consistency and dedication. This partnership reflects growth in action: building confidence, strengthening workplace skills, and making a real difference for animals and the community.
Written by Syrena G., Vocational Lead, Fresno West
MODESTO NORTH
Love Was in the Air at Modesto North’s Valentine’s Celebration
Modesto North recently hosted a festive Valentine’s celebration that transformed the program into a multi-room experience filled with fun, creativity, and connection. Each space offered participants a different way to celebrate the day, allowing everyone to find an activity that matched their interests and energy.
Participants could dance the day away at Cupid’s Groove Dance Floor, grab tasty treats at the Love Bites Bistro, relax in the Calm Collective, watch films in the Sweetheart Cinema, or step into the spotlight for some fun at the Spotlight Room Karaoke. The variety of rooms created an engaging and inclusive atmosphere where everyone could participate in their own way.
One of the standout moments of the celebration was the Calm Collective, which offered a quieter, sensory-friendly space. Here, participants enjoyed a relaxing paint-and-sip activity, creating beautiful artwork by candlelight. The peaceful setting allowed individuals to unwind, express their creativity, and enjoy a calming Valentine’s experience. The event was a wonderful example of Modesto North’s commitment to creating meaningful, inclusive activities that bring participants together while celebrating individuality and creativity.
Written by: Courtney K., Program Director, Modesto North
Pictured above: The Calm Collective with Michael, Ryan, and Tomas
FRESNO EAST
Don't Swap Until You Drop
Pictured: Juan "Panchito" & Daniel
"Panchito" and Daniel enjoyed their sunny day while walking around Fresno's Swap Meet, The Cherry Auction. The Participants at Fresno East enjoy when they can see the variety of items sold at Swap Meets as this can sharpen their money management skills. On this particular day, as they enjoyed watching a bubble machine create bubbles, they almost forgot to order their delicious food that they look forward to ordering. Panchito stated, "These bubbles make me happy Mija." Daniel just laughed the entire time and expressed he would like to return to the Swap Meet to see more bubbles. We love the independence and self-advocacy that Fresno East continues to promote.
Written by: Moriah G., Program Manager, Fresno East
MERCED
Customized Employment Service – Success Story
Pictured: Andrew
Merced’s Andrew quickly became an indispensable asset to the Bright Ideas team, evolving from an intern to a full-time hire by mastering the site's core operations. He didn't just 'process' reports; he took ownership of the data flow and streamlined the creation of high-impact information packets for both current and prospective clients. Whether he was maintaining a safe, organized warehouse environment or managing critical phone communications, Andrew’s versatility and 'can-do' attitude toward additional responsibilities ensured the location ran at peak efficiency.
Written by: Alicsa C., Program Director, Merced
AROUND CVTC
VISALIA
Stepping Into Spring with the Visalia Walking Club
The Visalia team is enjoying the sneak peeks of spring by embracing our walking club. As the weather begins to warm up, we are taking advantage of the sunshine and fresh air whenever we can. The walking club is a great way for our team to get back outside, get moving, and recharge during the day. Even a short walk can boost energy, improve focus, and support overall wellness. It has also been a great opportunity for staff and participants to get their steps in, contributing to their overall health goals! Moments like these help create a positive and supportive program for everyone.
Pictured: Visalia’s walking club
Written by: Crystal A., Program Director, Visalia
STOCKTON
Game Day Memories with the Stockton Kings
Jackson’s first outing to the Stockton Kings game was a wonderful experience, surrounded by friends and the excitement of live basketball. As they settled into their seats with snacks in hand, smiles all around showed just how much fun everyone was having. This memorable day marked the beginning of many more adventures cheering on the team together in the arena.
Pictured: Ashley, Hayley, Joseph, and Pierce
Written by Janet R., Program Director, Jackson
NEWS
Coming Soon...
CVTC continues to grow and expand its reach, bringing services to even more communities. Currently, CVTC Valley Springs, CVTC Tracy, and CVTC Stockton South are all under construction as part of the organization’s ongoing commitment to providing high-quality programs and support. This continued expansion reflects CVTC’s dedication to meeting the needs of individuals and families while creating more opportunities for connection, growth, and empowerment.
MODESTO SOUTH
Club Heartbreak Fills the Room with Confidence and Connection
Pictured: Mickel and Office Assistant Ashlee
Club Heartbreak took place at our Modesto South site on Friday, February 13th. The event filled the room with energy, color, and confidence. As the music started, friends gathered under glowing lights, forming dance circles, laughing together, and posing at the photo booth. The day was more than a celebration. It created space for connection, independence, and the confidence that grows in a safe and welcoming environment. Friends laughed together, invited others into their circles, and embraced the moment as a family.
That same spirit carried into our recent Advocacy Council election, where Matthew was elected President. As someone new to the program, stepping into a leadership role reflects meaningful personal growth. His willingness to lead shows what becomes possible when individuals feel supported and empowered.
Events like Club Heartbreak and the leadership emerging within our Advocacy Council reflect community in action. Growth appears in confidence, shared laughter, and the courage to step forward. At CVTC, celebration and leadership are both rooted in belonging.
Written by Zach D., Program Manager, Modesto South
STOCKTON EAST
Personal Milestones
Pictured: Jennifer
Jennifer has been a dedicated member of CVTC for many years. She has aspired to work and has advocated for herself to find a job to showcase her skills. She was hired in 2023 with CVTC as our trainee clerical assistant. She had an accident that had her unable to attend the program for many months. Jennifer pushed herself in physical therapy and with her nutrition to get herself back to optimal health. Jennifer met her milestone and received the clearance she was waiting for to return to the program and get back to her job. Jennifer kept pushing herself and frequently called to let us know her progress and how much she was ready to return to the program. Jennifer is officially back at day program and we couldn’t be happier.
Written By: Danielle H., Program Manager, Stockton East
