Josh Martinez, a junior at Montgomery High School in Otay Mesa, is a member of South Bay Youth 4 Change. SBY4C is urging more community empowerment and safety by promoting cleaner, healthier neighborhoods and reducing issues such as substance misuse and vandalism. The dedicated group of students is boosting civic engagement and social responsibility across South Bay communities.
Martinez said his inspiration came from a March cleanup event at the Otay Valley Regional Park.
“I think everyone should do their part for the community,” Martinez said in a press release.
“I understand that everyone has their struggles, their stress, and their own challenges, but I feel like it’s something magical and beautiful when so many people come together in one place to do some good, to make a change for the better.”
Efforts like cleaning the park follow the Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design principles to deter criminal activity, drug use and vandalism, while creating a more family-friendly environment. SBY4C is bringing these issues to the attention of the local community to get additional resources and infrastructure in the park to make it more accessible. Making a positive community presence will increase safety for visitors so they can feel more comfortable using the area for running, biking, hiking, picnicking and other recreational activities.
For parks, in particular, the CPTED approach aims to reduce feelings of isolation, maximize visibility, and limit areas of concealment. Park activation and social programming are also critical components of CPTED. As more people use parks, which serve as community gathering spaces, parks develop social capital that strengthens neighborhood ties, reduces crime, and makes people feel safer.
SBY4C’s mission extends beyond single events. The organization is dedicated to preventing drug and alcohol misuse and promoting safe and engaged communities. By encouraging residents to unite to enhance the local environment, SBY4C is fostering a culture of positivity and responsibility among South Bay youth.
