La Familia Counseling Center Launches 'Juntos Afuera' Program

La Familia Counseling Center launches the "Juntos Afuera" program, offering its first bus trip to over two dozen elderly individuals for a recreational visit to Golden Gate Park in San Francisco. This is the first of several planned trips serving the Sacramento community over the next three years.

Through the Juntos Afuera Program, La Familia will provide residents of Sacramento, from children to older adults, the opportunity to participate in outings and excursions, experience healing in nature, and become better stewards of our environment.

"La Familia Counseling Center is delighted to have received a grant from the state to provide opportunities for community members who traditionally lack access to our region's beautiful parks and recreational areas," said Rachel Ríos, Executive Director of La Familia Counseling Center.

Over the next three years, La Familia will offer more than 49 days of activities and over 26 local trips for the community, benefiting hundreds of individuals.

The program's goal is to improve our community's quality of life by offering activities that benefit their health and well-being. For older adults who eventually lack dignified opportunities such as a simple walk or recreational time, it is imperative to provide them with the opportunity to dedicate leisure time, come together, and enjoy these programs that not only have physical, social, and emotional benefits but also enhance creativity, foster interpersonal relationships, social bonds, and self-esteem.

"Juntos Afuera allows us to provide activities for our community, including older adults, to improve their health and well-being through outdoor recreation. California's majestic landscapes, the peace of nature, and togetherness are the perfect formula to encourage families to disconnect from their busy schedules and reconnect with nature," said Ríos.

In addition to the many benefits for older adults, these programs also present an opportunity for younger individuals to engage in professional and volunteer opportunities, fostering unity, becoming better stewards of our environment, and participating in various roles such as community translators, youth outreach ambassadors, video and social media content producers, becoming community members as tour guides/presenters and group leaders.

"We are working towards a more united community, with recreational program opportunities within reach of older adults that facilitate an improved quality of life and contribute to the development of healthier and more autonomous lifestyles at this age, with the best health and well-being outcomes," said Ríos.