Kidz Day 2026

by

Kidz Day is an annual event for the benefit of local at-risk youth at The Salvation Army Red Shield Community Center in South Modesto.

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED AT THE RED SHIELD

Remembering Alvin Prasad:

A Loyal Volunteer Whose Service Shined Through His Final Days

Alvin Prasad was a generous, loyal, and deeply valued volunteer of the Salvation Army Red Shield. His kindness, steady presence, and genuine heart touched countless lives and strengthened our mission in ways that will never be forgotten. We are profoundly grateful for the time, care, and compassion he shared so freely with our community.

“Selling papers on the corner for KIDZ DAY was truly a passion for Alvin Prasad with RE/MAX Executive. ‘It’s all about helping the kids,’ he said. Even though he was battling cancer, he always showed up with the biggest smile and worked his corner,” said Lisa Braden with RE/MAX Executive. Alvin lost his battle with cancer on February 7, 2026. Thank you, Alvin, for the light you brought to others. Your legacy of service will continue to inspire us always.

— Cecilia and Pete Michelini

Volunteers with The Salvation Army Red Shield gather during a past KIDZ DAY fundraiser, an event close to the heart of longtime supporter Alvin Prasad. Prasad, known for selling papers on his corner with a smile even while battling cancer, died Feb. 7, 2026. His dedication and kindness continue to inspire the community he served. VOLUNTEER & SPONSORSHIP

CONTACT INFORMATION

THE SALVATION ARMY

MODESTO RED SHIELD COMMUNITY CENTER 1649 LAS VEGAS STREET ◆ MODESTO, CA. 95358

P.O. BOX 580480 ◆ MODESTO, CA. 95358 (209) 538-7111

WWW.REDSHIELDMODESTO.ORG

MODESTO RED SHIELD CENTER

FACEBOOK: THE SALVATION ARMY MODESTO RED SHIELD CENTER & CORPS ◆ INSTAGRAM@ MODESTO_RED_SHIELD

MODESTO RED SHIELD CENTER

INFO@REDSHIELDMODESTO.ORG

Corner of Hatch & Crows Landing Roads

Modesto, CA

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COMMUNITY EFFORT TO RENOVATE LONG-STANDING GYM

For more than 55 years, the gym at the Modesto Red Shield has served as a cornerstone for youth and families in South Modesto, offering a safe, climate‑controlled space for recreation, athletics and community connection.

Now, Red Shield leaders are launching a community effort to renovate the gym so it can continue supporting future generations.

Located at 1649 Las Vegas St., the gym has long hosted basketball programs, youth boxing training and other activities. Its last major renovation came in 2011, when the original tile flooring was replaced with a sport‑court surface. After more than 15 years of heavy use, staff say

the flooring now needs a full upgrade.

“This gym has always been more than just a place to play,” staff said. “It’s a safe environment where kids can stay active, build confidence and be part of something positive.”

Demand for the space has grown in recent years. Along with basketball and boxing, the gym now supports volleyball clinics and leagues, and interest is rising in pickleball, badminton, futsal, athletic training classes and dodgeball. The increased use has placed additional strain on the facility.

The proposed renovation would transform the gym into a modern, multi‑sport space. Plans include installing a new

multi‑use sports floor and adding six adjustable basketball backboards that can be raised to accommodate volleyball and other sports. The redesign would allow for two volleyball courts and a main competition court with spectator seating.

Red Shield leaders say the project is about investing in the future of South Modesto.

“Our goal is to prepare this space to serve the community for the next 55 years,” staff said.

The Modesto Red Shield is seeking community partners, donors and supporters to help move the renovation forward. Those interested in contributing or learning more are encouraged to contact the center directly. 

the 55-year-old facility, aiming to upgrade the worn sport-court floor and expand the space for basketball, volleyball and other growing youth programs.

LILLIAN AND MALIA’S POSITIVE VOLLEYBALL JOURNEY

What began as a first‑time volleyball experience has grown into a source of confidence, friendship and routine for sisters Lillian and Malia at the Modesto Red Shield.

The girls joined the program last year and quickly discovered what keeps kids returning: an active environment, supportive coaches and friendships that extend beyond the school day. Their older sister, Isabella, 13, who plays volleyball and basketball at Vanguard, inspired them to give the sport a try. For Lillian, the highlight is learning the fundamentals in an encouraging setting — practicing serves behind the yellow line, laughing with teammates and gaining confidence with each drill. She credits the coaching staff, including Coach PJ, for creating a space where

beginners feel supported.

Malia remembers the moment her first serve cleared the net, a milestone many young athletes celebrate. Spiking is still on her list of skills to learn, but she and her sister say they can see steady

progress each week.

Volleyball is their main organized sport outside school, but it has sparked interest in trying more activities. Their parents plan to sign them up for softball next.

Lillian has also become an informal

ambassador, telling classmates about the Red Shield and its programs. One of her friends, Aliyah, attends the same facility for boxing.

Families describe the Red Shield as welcoming and team‑centered — a place where coaches know the kids, effort is recognized and friendships form naturally. The sisters hope to continue playing and are already considering future sports, from basketball to softball.

Beyond athletics, the Red Shield offers additional youth programs, including an upcoming Vacation Bible School.

Stories like Lillian and Malia’s reflect what many parents seek: a safe, supportive environment where kids can try something new, build confidence and feel part of a community. 

PURPOSE & COMMUNITY THROUGH RED SHIELD SPORTS

What began as a search for a better baseball program for his son has grown into a calling for PJ Cervantes, who now serves as the sports coordinator at The Salvation Army Red Shield.

Cervantes first walked through the Red Shield doors in 2023 after becoming frustrated with how his son’s school baseball program was run. A friend recommended the Red Shield’s youth leagues, praising the coaching and structure. Cervantes enrolled his son, Ponce — and quickly found more than a team.

“We’ve never looked back,” he said. Cervantes grew up in Tulare, where he was deeply involved in youth sports. He served as Umpire in Chief for softball, coordinated referees for soccer, coached high school softball and soccer, and officiated high school matches. After moving

to Stanislaus County in 2003, he struggled to find a program where he felt he could contribute. When Ponce was born in 2014, he began searching again — this time for a place where his son could develop the same love for sports that shaped his own childhood.

The Red Shield became that place. “Luckily, we found the Red Shield and became part of the Red Shield family — a place where I feel I belong and where I can help youth to the best of my abilities,” he said.

The impact, he added, has been personal and profound.

“It’s given me a family — something I felt I was missing — and a bigger purpose. It filled a void,” Cervantes said. “I love helping others and seeing our youth smile and have fun.”

He sees the gym as more than a

place to play. For many families, he said, it offers safety, support and connection — a space where kids can get homework help, build friendships and learn skills that carry into adulthood.

“It gives people a sense of companionship and freedom, freedom to express themselves and make new friends in the process,” he said. “With the programs we’re introducing, they’ll also learn lifelong skills.”

Looking ahead, Cervantes hopes to see the gym bustling from open to close, with activities ranging from volleyball and futsal to basketball, boxing, baseball, softball, kickball, pickleball, hockey and athletic training. He also envisions competitive leagues with other churches and Salvation Army facilities. 

For some, the Red Shield is just a gym. For others, it becomes something much more. For Sergio Velasquez, now a sports coordinator at The Salvation Army Red Shield, the building has been part of his life since 1986, when he first walked through the doors at age 4. His parents signed him up for T‑ball, not knowing the impact it would have. What followed was an experience that shaped his love for sports, his values and his sense of community. The coaches he met taught him integrity, teamwork and respect — lessons that stayed with him long after the games ended. What made the Red Shield special then, Velasquez said, is the same thing that makes it special today: its heart. The gym has always opened

A PLACE THAT FEELS LIKE HOME

its doors to everyone, regardless of race, religion, gender or financial situation. Inside, he learned far more than sports. He played baseball and basketball, swam in the pool and discovered simple joys like ping pong and billiards. Most importantly, he found belonging. The gym became a second home, a place where he spent countless afternoons with friends who still joke, “Remember how we basically lived at the Red Shield?” Together, they learned the importance of community and encouragement — values Velasquez now works to pass on to the next generation. Today, he sees the gym playing that same role for families. It brings people together, rain or shine, giving children a safe place to play,

next generation of young

learn and grow. Parents watch their kids try new sports or discover passions they didn’t know they had. “It’s more than recreation — it’s connection,” he said.

Velasquez hopes the gym continues to evolve to meet the needs of future generations. He envisions updated flooring, retractable basketball hoops and technology that supports classes, training and learning. A flexible space that can shift from basketball to volleyball, futsal, pickleball or fitness — always ready for the next child, the next season and the next opportunity.

Velasquez now supports the basketball and futsal programs revitalized last year by Program Aide Ricky, helping launch two basketball seasons and new futsal and athletic training classes. 

We are proud to support the Red Shield Center. Every year, G3 and our employees join forces to make a real difference in the community. Contributing to over 50 charities locally and nationwide, we donate our time and financial support in a variety of ways. As a family-owned company, we know the family and community go hand-in-hand.

The Women’s Auxiliary works with The Salvation Army to support their programs and activities in Modesto.

You are invited to join us at 9:00 a.m. on the second Monday of every month, September through May.

For more information, please call 209-522-3209

On a typical afternoon at The Salvation Army Community Center, the boxing room fills with the steady rhythm of jump ropes, quick footwork and gloves snapping against heavy bags. For 14 year old Chelsea, those sounds have become a kind of reset button — a routine that helps her feel stronger, calmer and more sure of herself.

Chelsea and her family have long been familiar faces at the center, taking part in programs ranging from homework support to fitness classes. Their routine shifted during the pandemic, but when she returned, she found something that made her want to stay: boxing. It started with a cousin’s recommendation. Chelsea was curious but hesitant, unsure how she would fit into a sport where she didn’t see many girls her age. She worried about being judged. But once she stepped into the ring, the workouts, coaching and encouragement began to add up.

“It’s really the best thing that’s happened to me,” she said.

Nearly a year later, Chelsea says boxing has helped her grow more confident and more comfortable speaking up and meeting new people. She describes the sport as a steadying force during a difficult period. “Boxing helped me with my

mental health,” she said, calling it “peaceful” and a way to clear her mind.

Chelsea credits the center’s coaches — especially Coach Juan and Hawk — with creating a structured, safe environment where beginners can learn fundamentals: footwork, conditioning, discipline and respect for training partners. That structure helped her stick with the program and helped her form friendships along the way. She describes the gym as a place where young athletes push each other to improve and celebrate progress together. Right now, only three girls participate in the boxing program, including Chelsea. She hopes her presence — and her progress — will make it easier for the next girl to walk in the door and try. Her family has been watching her grow. At first, Chelsea said, her dad wasn’t sure she would take boxing seriously. Over time, that doubt turned into pride. His work schedule doesn’t always allow him to attend events, but he follows her progress closely and encourages her goals. Her mom, she said, is protective and wants to make sure she’s training the right way — support Chelsea sees as grounding as she takes on bigger challenges. As of February 2026, Chelsea has

been training for nearly a year and has already stepped into official competition twice. She won one bout and lost another — results she says motivated her to keep learning, listening and showing up. She remembers feeling nervous before the bell, then focused once the match began. The experience taught her resilience: how to work through fear, take feedback and improve one

round at a time.

For Chelsea, the community center has become more than a gym. It’s a welcoming place where staff and peers look out for one another — support she believes can make a real difference for young people.

“If you’re thinking about it, just try it,” she said. “Don’t worry about what people think.” 

WHAT DO YOU LIKE ABOUT RED SHIELD?

What the Red Shield Gives Us: Youth Voices From a Community That Feels Like Home

A Family’s Story: Why the Red Shield Feels Like a Second Home

For five years, the Red Shield has been a place where this family’s three boys stay active, learn new skills and build friendships. What started with a school field trip quickly grew into a routine filled with baseball, soccer, basketball and agility classes.

Parents appreciate the welcoming staff, affordable programs and the chance to work out while the boys practice. The family also loves pool days, game nights and seasonal events. Each child has a favorite sport, and all agree: “There’s always something positive happening.” 

Caleb Kiana Emmalee

Emmalee “Emily”

Gonzalez: Overcoming Shyness on the Basketball Court

Emmalee “Emily” Gonzalez joined the Red Shield basketball program in winter 2024, hoping to try something new. Shy at first, she quickly felt at ease with teammates who welcomed her and coaches who made learning fun. PJ and Coach Danny helped her improve her passing, communication and ability to get open — and helped her fall in love with the game. Emily now looks forward to practices, friendships and the energy of the gym after school. She enjoys other sports, but basketball is where she feels happiest. “I just love being here,” she said. 

For 15‑year‑old Caleb Hernandez, boxing at the Red Shield became more than a sport — it became a turning point. He joined looking for an outlet for anger and found structure, mentorship and emotional growth under Coach Juan. Boxing taught him discipline, self‑control and resilience.

Caleb has competed in six bouts, earning four wins and learning from every match. He values the friendships and family‑like support in the gym. Inspired by older athletes, he now dreams of going pro at 18. “You make friends fast,” he said. 

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Three years ago, Kiana Madero discovered volleyball through a Red Shield summer camp, and it quickly became her favorite part of the week. She’d played at school, but joining the center’s team in 2025 changed everything. With Coach PJ’s patient guidance, she learned overhand serves, spiking and court coverage — skills that boosted her confidence on and off the court. What she loves most is the atmosphere: teammates who laugh together, coaches who support beginners and a gym where everyone feels welcome. “It’s just fun,” she said. 

BUILDING SKILLS, CONFIDENCE AND COMMUNITY

At The Salvation Army Red Shield, two young athletes — 13‑year‑old Sergio Velasquez Jr. and 11‑year‑old Ponce Cervantes — are finding confidence, friendship and a sense of belonging through the center’s growing baseball program. For Velasquez, baseball is part of a family legacy. His father, Sergio Velasquez, grew up playing at the Red Shield, and his son has followed the same path. Velasquez Jr. first joined the center at age 7, trying boxing before discovering his stride on the baseball field at 9. Now in his fifth season, he plays multiple positions but gravitates toward shortstop and pitcher.

“I love it,” he said. “It’s fun because you get to meet new people, and it’s just fun playing baseball.” He hopes to play in college and dreams

of joining the Dodgers one day. He credits his parents for encouraging him to stay active and appreciates how the Red Shield keeps sports accessible. “It’s a community, and they do a lot for you. You get a lot for a little bit,” he said.

Velasquez Jr. often invites classmates to join him and hopes to one day give back as a coach or mentor.

Ponce Cervantes shares that same enthusiasm. His family first heard about the Red Shield through friends, and although he arrived for basketball, he quickly found a home in baseball. Three years later, he’s active in soccer, futsal and basketball as well.

Ponce enjoys third base and occasionally pitching, but what stands out most is the camaraderie.

“Getting to know teammates,

playing, having fun and learning the basics of baseball,” he said. He describes the sport as “amazing” and values the friendships he’s made outside of school.

Before joining the Red Shield, Ponce said sports didn’t feel as enjoyable. The difference, he believes, is the coaches — people he describes as caring, communicative and committed to helping kids grow. He often asks his parents when he can return. “I really just enjoy being here,” he said.

Together, Velasquez Jr. and Cervantes represent what many families find at the Red Shield: a place where young athletes can try new sports, build confidence and feel part of a community that celebrates effort as much as skill. 

RED SHIELD POOL OPENS FOR SUMMER

Opening with Expanded Programs and Community Events.

The Salvation Army Red Shield Community Center is gearing up for another busy summer as its newly replastered pool opens for the season, offering expanded programs and a full lineup of activities for families across South Modesto. With depths ranging from 3 to 9 feet, the pool is designed for swimmers of all ages — from beginners learning to float to experienced swimmers looking to get in laps or cool off during the Central Valley heat.

This year, the Red Shield plans to increase its swim lesson offerings after several seasons of high demand. Registration opens in mid May, and families are encouraged to follow the summer aquatic calendar for class schedules. The pool will also host youth swim time during

summer day camp, waterfitness classes, and designated family swim hours. Special event features, including a slide and volleyball net, will return for birthday parties, friendly competitions and weekend gatherings.

Family Nights — sponsored by Turlock Irrigation District — will take place once a month in June and July, offering a free or lowcost evening for families to swim, relax and connect with neighbors.

The Red Shield’s pool has been a cornerstone of the center for more than 55 years, serving generations of Modesto residents. Beyond recreation, the aquatic program emphasizes water safety, teaching skills that have helped community members respond confidently in emergencies at home pools, reservoirs and other waterways.

Additional offerings include aquatic fitness classes, Jr. Lifeguard training, swim teams, public swim sessions and rentals for school and community groups. For many families, the pool remains a summer oasis — a place to learn, exercise and build memories together. As temperatures rise, the Red Shield hopes to once again be the community’s goto spot for safe, affordable summer fun. 

LEFT: Lifeguards stand ready on deck during summer training at The Salvation Army Red Shield Community Center pool in Modesto. The newly replastered facility is preparing for a busy season of swim lessons, family swim hours and community events, continuing a 55-year tradition of providing safe, affordable aquatic programs for local families; ABOVE: Participants take part in an aqua-fitness class at The Salvation Army Red Shield Community Center pool in Modesto. The newly replastered facility is offering expanded summer programming this season, including water-exercise classes, swim lessons and family swim hours as part of its long-standing commitment to community wellness and water safety.

Linda Martinez’s Lasting Impact on the Red Shield Senior Program

A LIFETIME OF SERVICE

More than 30 years ago, Linda Martinez walked the streets of South Modesto, knocking on doors and sharing the resources available at The Salvation Army Red Shield. What began as a job quickly became a lifelong calling rooted in service, faith and community — a commitment that continues today. Over the decades, Martinez invested her time in nearly every corner of the Red Shield. She supported women’s ministries, youth programs, food distribution and church activities, but her heart was especially tied to the Senior Program. As Senior Coordinator, she helped create a welcoming space where older adults could gather, connect and feel valued. Her leadership shaped the program for years, and even after retiring, she never stepped away. Martinez remains an active volunteer and a dedicated Soldier at the Corps. At Senior Program gatherings, she’s often the first to greet newcomers, the one encouraging participation and the person quietly ensuring everyone feels included. She continues to support fundraisers, offer ideas and strengthen the sense of community that has defined her work from the beginning. Her story reflects what many longtime members say about the Red Shield: it’s more than a building. It’s a family built through consistency, kindness and people who keep showing up. Martinez’s steady presence is a reminder of the impact one person can make when service becomes a way of life. 

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Convoy responds to disasters by delivering food, water, and essential supplies to survivors when they need it most. Beyond disaster response, Convoy partners with communities to create lasting change.

Through the Children’s Feeding initiative, more than 677,000 children receive a nutritious meal every school day. Women’s Empowerment provides training and seed capital to help women support their families, while Agriculture initiatives equip farmers to strengthen their harvests. Together, Convoy of Hope has served more than 350 million people worldwide — bringing hope where it’s needed most.

FROM LONG ODDS TO NEW BEGINNINGS

Mannuel Barragan Valencia’s story began with uncertainty. He spent his first three months in an incubator, and his family was told he might not survive. He did—and that early fight became a defining theme of his life. Raised by a young mother as her third child, he grew up in a home shaped by instability. His biological father was largely absent and later served an eight year prison sentence on drug related charges— an experience that left Manny determined to choose a different path.

When he was 4, a stepfather entered the picture. The family had what they needed at times—food on the table and a roof overhead—but the household also faced the volatility that comes with involvement in drug sales. “There were highs and lows,” he said. “Some days we shopped at

Payless; other days we were at the mall.”

He says he didn’t find a steady father figure until he walked into The Salvation Army Red Shield for recreational basketball. What started as a place to play quickly became a place to belong.

There, he met one of his first spiritual mentors, Salvation Army Officer Lieutenant Dustin Rowe.

Manny describes Rowe as a devoted husband and father whose example helped him embrace a faith centered life. “He showed me the love of God,” Manny said. “That changed everything.”

Today, he says keeping God at the center of his life has strengthened his spiritual well being and helped him stay focused on his health, goals, and finances. He is quick to give credit where he believes it’s due: “God is

the reason I’ve been able to keep moving forward.”

Now 26, Mannuel Barragan Valencia is engaged and preparing to welcome his son, Messiah. He also says he owns a home, invests, and operates two businesses—milestones he once struggled to imagine during his childhood.

He sums it up simply: “All glory to God.”

He hopes others will find the same kind of support at the Red Shield that he did. He points to the staff, programs, and practical resources available there, and he encourages community members to get involved—especially local youth looking for a safe place to grow. “The Red Shield has been a blessing,” he said. “Come by, hang out, and be part of what’s happening on the south side.” 

Mannuel “Manny” Barragan Valencia, 26, stands at The Salvation Army Red Shield in Modesto, the place he credits with helping him find stability, mentorship and a faith-centered path after a turbulent childhood.

A LIFE OF SERVICE AT THE RED SHIELD

After retiring from a 30‑year career in hospitality, Nancy Pope didn’t expect to spend her days coordinating fundraisers, hauling trays of food and rallying volunteers. But when friends from the Red Shield Committee told her the organization needed help, she recognized a familiar rhythm: plan, serve, show up, repeat.

“I had just retired from the hospitality business I had for 30 years — catering and party planning right up my alley,” she said. “I thought I could share my knowledge and expertise with them. Boy did that come in handy.”

Her involvement began with a nudge from committee members Roxanne Nelson, Joeanna Basi, Michele Beaty and Travis Heilman, who knew Nancy could turn good intentions into workable plans. Today, she helps organize the fundraisers and annual events that keep programs running for families in need — work that

blends logistics with compassion. Nancy says the real reward comes in the everyday moments the public rarely sees: children arriving after school, looking for a safe place to land. Along the way, she has gained something she didn’t expect — friendships built through shared purpose. “The close bonds I’ve formed with the other committee members is priceless,” she said. “I know I have made friends for life.”

For Nancy, the Red Shield gym is the heart of it all — a “beautiful hub of constant activity for all ages.” It hosts games, boxing events, family nights, tournaments, banquets and volunteer celebrations. It’s also where daily snacks and balanced meals are served, sometimes the only meal a child receives that day.

Major outreach days transform the gym into a one‑stop support center, offering clothing, backpacks, supplies, shoes,

Nancy Pope, a longtime Red Shield volunteer and former hospitality professional, stands inside the Modesto community center where she now helps coordinate fundraisers, events and daily support for local families. After retiring from a 30-year career, she brought her planning skills and steady presence to the Red Shield, becoming known for her warm spirit, dependable service and the macaroni-and-cheese trays that made her a favorite among after-school kids.

socks, haircuts and lunch, with take‑home food to help families stretch their budgets. “If you are sad when you get there, your spirit will for sure be lifted,” Nancy said.

Her favorite memory is simple: arriving with “a huge tray or two” of macaroni and cheese for the afterschool program. The kids crowded around, shouting “YUUUUMMMM!” She still hears it when she walks in — “It’s the Mac‑and‑Cheese lady!”

Nancy hopes the committee continues bringing in “more young blood” and that the well‑used gym receives needed updates. But she doesn’t talk about her role in grand terms. She talks about teamwork, meals, laughter and second chances — and the quiet power of consistency.

Because at the Red Shield, she said, “we literally have the power to change a child’s life for good.” 

AFTERSCHOOL IS MORE THAN HOMEWORK

For many families, afterschool programs mean a quiet place to finish homework.

At The Salvation Army Red Shield in Modesto, afterschool is so much more— it’s a safe, welcoming space where youth are nourished, supported, and inspired every afternoon.

Each weekday beginning at 2:30 p.m., students are greeted with a healthy snack and caring staff ready to help them unwind after a long school day. These early moments set the tone for the afternoon, offering youth positive conversations, encouragement, and a sense of belonging.

By 3:00 p.m., homework hour begins. Youth receive help with assignments, school projects, and grade‑level worksheets. Computers are available for educational use, and a well‑loved library invites children to discover the joy of reading. Twice a year, the library is refreshed, giving youth the opportunity

to take books home—helping literacy extend beyond the walls of the center. While some students focus on academics, older youth and teens arrive ready to be active learning computer skills and on the move. Pickup games of basketball or futsal in the gym provide a healthy outlet for energy, teamwork, and friendship. It’s a place to connect with peers, relieve stress, and simply enjoy being a kid.

As the afternoon continues, the center fills with activity. Around 4:30 p.m., youth are served a hot, balanced meal— often the most substantial meal of their day. Monday through Friday, meals introduce many children to foods they may not regularly experience at home, ensuring they leave nourished and ready for the evening.

The early evening hours bring even more excitement. From STEAM activities and SAY Scouting troops to computer

literacy, crafts, games, kickball, typing/ coding classes and kid‑friendly bingo, every day offers something new and engaging. The Red Shield buzzes with creativity, laughter, and learning. Friday nights are especially meaningful.

From 6:00 to 8:00 p.m., Teen Night provides a positive supervised environment for at risk teens during the hours they need it the most during critical high risk hours. Through fun, supervised activities, teens build connections, confidence, and community in a place where they know they are valued.

At The Red Shield, after school isn’t just about homework—it’s about building strong, healthy, and hopeful futures. Families are encouraged to stop by, explore the daily and monthly schedules, and see firsthand how The Red Shield is making a difference, one afternoon at a time. 

Students work on a hands-on LEGO robotics project during after-school programming at The Salvation Army Red Shield in Modesto. Each weekday, youth receive homework help, computer access, STEAM activities and a hot meal, creating a safe and supportive space where learning, creativity and connection thrive long after the school day ends.

AT A GLANCE — RED SHIELD FUNDING NEEDS

AFTER SCHOOL HOMEWORK

Many of our children have no resources at home to help them to learn and complete their homework. Our staff and volunteers work with them every afternoon to help them learn and excel at school in our homework and literacy assistance program

COMPUTER LAB

Our computer lab helps children develop and learn basic computer skills, research for homework as well as introduction to coding and IT world of opportunities.

STEAM ACTIVITIES

Youth experience a variety of activities throughout the year from science to art to music. Activities they might not have access to any other way..

TEEN PROGRAM

The teen program is crucial after school program that offers teens a safe environment during peak hours of crime. Youth find a space designated for them to do homework, make friends, play games or engage in activities that are positive.

FIELD TRIPS

Educational field trips are planned throughout the year to allow youth to experience different fields and possibilities for future job opportunities.

BOXING

Our Boxing Program has knowledgeable coaches providing quality instruction. The class offers basic boxing skills, physical fitness and sportsmanship.

BASEBALL/SOFTBALL

Our youth baseball program allows kids to learn baseball skill, teaches teamwork and sportsmanship.

BASKETBALL

Our basketball league is growing allowing kids to enjoy teamwork and meeting new friends.

SWIM LESSONS

Our full-size swimming pool offers a variety of activities during the summer months including life saving skills with swim lessons.

TROOP PROGRAMS

Our character building programs help children to develop skill building, goal setting, leadership development and Christian living.

JR. LIFEGUARDS

A class offered to youth to learn water safety and what it takes to become a lifeguard.

FITNESS

A fun aquatic class that offers low impact fitness during the warm summer months.

SOCCER

Clinics/Camps are set to help youth learn the basics of soccer.

FITNESS CENTER

Is an open fitness center with state of the art cardio and weight training equipment. Multiple programs use this facility with their workouts

SUMMER CAMP

Our summer over night camping program offers children the opportunity to attend an overnight camp at a low cost to families. This opportunity is a week long at The Salvation Army’s Camp Redwood Glen in Scotts Valley.

SUMMER DAY CAMP

A summer camp held at our facility from 8am-4:30pm Monday through Friday for youth 7yr-12yrs

PUBLIC SWIM

Two sessions are offered to allow families to come cool down in our beautiful pool.

COMPETITIVE SWIM

Is a fun class to strengthen swimmers skills and learn about water safety as well as prepping for Jr. Lifeguard classes.

FACILITY OPERATIONAL COST THERE WAS NO CONTENT IN THIS BOX

SUMMER SEASONAL FUN

When summer arrives in Modesto, The Salvation Army Red Shield becomes a hub of laughter, learning and activity as families look for safe, enriching options for their children. The center offers a range of programs designed to help youth grow, explore and thrive throughout the season.

Summer Day Camp:

Full‑Day Fun and Discovery

Summer Day Camp remains one of the Red Shield’s most popular offerings, providing full‑day care for families in June and July. The weekly program runs Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and is led by trained, caring staff. Each week features themed activities that keep youth engaged, including educational enrichment, creative projects, recreational games, sports and aquatic activities. Campers receive breakfast, lunch and a healthy snack each day, making it a convenient, all‑inclusive option for working parents. Space is limited, and registration is first‑come, first‑served.

Overnight Camp:

A Week in the Mountains

For youth ready for a bigger adventure, Overnight Camp at The Salvation Army’s certified camp in Scotts Valley offers a weeklong experience in the Santa Cruz Mountains. Held in June and July, the camp gives children the chance to disconnect from daily routines and connect with nature, new friendships and personal growth. Under the supervision of trained counselors and certified Salvation Army staff, campers participate in outdoor activities, team‑building challenges and character‑building programs. Red Shield staff transport campers to and from Modesto, and thanks to donor support, families pay a $50 fee with a $250 stipend applied upon successful attendance.

Scenes from The Salvation Army’s Redwood Glen Camp in Scotts Valley, where Modesto Red Shield youth spend a week each summer exploring the outdoors, swimming, and building friendships. The overnight camp—part of the Red Shield’s seasonal programming—offers a safe, supervised environment for adventure, personal growth and connection in the Santa Cruz Mountains.

Vacation Bible School:

A Summer Highlight

For many Red Shield youth, Vacation Bible School is the most anticipated week of the summer. The center transforms into a high‑energy space filled with music, games, skits, crafts and snacks. Each day features themed activities that help children learn about the love of Jesus in creative, memorable ways. The atmosphere is joyful and welcoming, drawing both kids and adults into the fun.

Join the Fun

From daily camp adventures to mountain getaways and faith‑filled celebrations, The Salvation Army Red Shield offers something special for every child. Families are encouraged to register early, as programs fill quickly. For details on dates and enrollment, contact the Red Shield Center and make this summer one to remember. 

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