The Homicide Survivors Support Group offers a compassionate space for those affected by violent loss. Together, we share our grief, support one another, and honor our loved ones. Our mission is to foster healing, resilience, and hope in the face of
Monday, September 7, 2026
Friday, September 4, 2026
How Youth Programs Can Help Build Stronger Communities
Strong communities don't happen by accident. They are built when people invest in one another—and that investment can begin with young people.
Youth involvement provides children and teens with opportunities to develop confidence, leadership skills, friendships, and a sense of belonging. When young people have positive places to spend their time and adults who encourage them, they gain more opportunities to make healthy choices and envision a positive future.
This idea is central to the legacy of Matt Garcia. Matt believed in supporting youth and creating opportunities for young people to become active participants in their communities. His vision included bringing people together and helping create a culture where individuals feel connected and responsible for the place they call home.
Programs that involve young people can take many forms. Sports, mentorship, educational opportunities, community events, leadership activities, and service projects can all help young people discover their strengths.
Perhaps just as importantly, these experiences teach young people that they have something valuable to contribute.
Community involvement is not only about preventing negative outcomes. It is also about creating positive ones. A teenager who discovers a passion for helping others may become a future volunteer. A young person who learns leadership skills may eventually become a community leader. A child who feels supported may grow into an adult who supports someone else.
That is how positive change spreads.
Investing in youth is an investment in the future of the entire community. When families, organizations, schools, volunteers, and community members work together, young people have more opportunities to learn, grow, and make a difference.
Monday, August 31, 2026
What is depression? - Helen M. Farrell
Depression is the leading cause of disability in the world; in the United States, close to ten percent of adults struggle with the disease. But because it’s a mental illness, it can be a lot harder to understand than, say, high cholesterol. Helen M. Farrell examines the symptoms and treatments of depression, and gives some tips for how you might help a friend who is suffering.
Lesson by Helen M. Farrell, animation by Artrake Studio.
Friday, August 28, 2026
Fairfield, CA: Fun Facts You May Not Know About Fairfield
How well do you know Fairfield, California? This Solano County community has more history and personality than you might expect!
Fairfield was founded in 1903 and was named by Robert H. Waterman, a prominent local landowner, after Fairfield, Iowa, his hometown. Today, Fairfield sits conveniently between San Francisco and Sacramento, making it an important part of the region.
One of the area's most recognizable attractions is the Jelly Belly Visitor Center. Fairfield has been home to Jelly Belly's West Coast operations since 1986, making the colorful candy a pretty big part of the community's identity.
Fairfield is also located near the Suisun Valley, an area known for agriculture, vineyards, and beautiful open spaces. The combination of city life, farming, food, and recreation gives the area a personality all its own.
And here's another fun fact: Fairfield is the county seat of Solano County.
Whether you've lived here for decades or recently made Fairfield your home, there's always something new to discover. At [Business Name], we're proud to be part of the Fairfield community and to serve the people who make this area such a great place to live and work.
Here's to Fairfield—and all the fun facts that make it unique!
Direct: 707.372.4160
Email: info@ffinest.org
Website
Tuesday, August 25, 2026
10 Fun Facts You May Not Know About Fairfield, California
Fairfield, California, is more than a convenient stop between Sacramento and the Bay Area. This Solano County community has its own history, personality, and plenty of interesting stories.
Whether you've lived in Fairfield for decades or are relatively new to the area, here are some fun facts that may make you look at the city a little differently.
1. Fairfield Is the County Seat
Fairfield serves as the county seat of Solano County. That gives the city an important role in local government and the region's history.
2. The City Was Named After Fairfield, Connecticut
Fairfield's name came from Fairfield, Connecticut. The city was officially incorporated in the early 20th century, although its roots in the area go back much further.
3. Fairfield Is Part of a Major California Region
Its location puts Fairfield within reach of several major Northern California destinations. Residents can enjoy access to the Bay Area, Sacramento, Napa Valley, and other communities without being directly in the middle of the hustle and bustle of a major metropolitan area.
4. Travis Air Force Base Is Nearby
One of Fairfield's most recognizable neighbors is Travis Air Force Base. The base has played an important role in the local economy and community for decades.
5. Agriculture Is Part of the Area's History
Solano County has a strong agricultural tradition. Farming has long been an important part of the region, and agriculture continues to shape the surrounding landscape.
6. Fairfield Has a Connection to the Jelly Bean
One of the area's most famous attractions is Jelly Belly's Fairfield-area operation. For candy lovers, that makes Fairfield an especially sweet destination.
7. Fairfield Has Plenty of Open Space
Although Fairfield has grown significantly, the surrounding area still features agricultural land, hills, parks, and open spaces. That combination gives the community a distinctive Northern California feel.
8. It Has a Unique Location
Fairfield sits in a location that offers access to both urban and rural environments. You can enjoy restaurants, shopping, businesses, and entertainment while still being relatively close to vineyards, farms, and open countryside.
9. The Weather Has Personality
Like much of Northern California, Fairfield experiences warm, dry summers and cooler, wetter winters. If you're new to the area, summer temperatures can definitely make you appreciate a good air conditioner!
10. There's Always More to Discover
One of the best things about living in Fairfield is that the community continues to evolve. New businesses, restaurants, neighborhoods, and community activities add to a city that already has a fascinating history.
Whether you're a longtime resident or someone discovering Fairfield for the first time, there's always another local fact, landmark, or story worth learning about.
That's part of what makes a community feel like home.
Sunday, August 23, 2026
How miscommunication happens (and how to avoid it) - Katherine Hampsten
Explore why miscommunication occurs so frequently, and how you can minimize frustration while expressing yourself better.
--
Have you ever talked with a friend about a problem, only to realize that he just doesn’t seem to grasp why the issue is so important to you? Have you ever presented an idea to a group, and it’s met with utter confusion? What’s going on here? Katherine Hampsten describes why miscommunication occurs so frequently, and how we can minimize frustration while expressing ourselves better.
Lesson by Katherine Hampsten, animation by Andrew Foerster.
Wednesday, August 19, 2026
Monday, August 17, 2026
8 Fun Facts You May Not Know About Fairfield, California
Every city has its stories, but some places have more interesting history hiding in plain sight than others. Fairfield, California, is a great example.
Located in Solano County between the San Francisco Bay Area and Sacramento region, Fairfield has a history that reaches back much further than many people realize. Here are a few fun facts about the city.
1. Fairfield Was Named After Another Fairfield
Fairfield was laid out in 1856 by Captain Robert H. Waterman, a clipper-ship captain who had traveled around the world multiple times.
He named the California community after his hometown of Fairfield, Connecticut.
2. Fairfield Has Been the County Seat Since 1858
Fairfield became the Solano County seat in 1858 after voters approved moving the county seat from Benicia.
Waterman donated 16 acres for county buildings, helping establish Fairfield's role as an important center of government.
3. Fairfield Wasn't Incorporated Until 1903
Although the town was established decades earlier, Fairfield wasn't formally incorporated as a city until December 12, 1903.
That means the community had already been around for nearly half a century before officially becoming a city.
4. The Area Has Thousands of Years of History
Artifacts discovered in nearby Green Valley have been dated to thousands of years ago. The area was home to Indigenous communities long before Fairfield became the city we know today.
5. Fairfield Is Closely Connected to Travis Air Force Base
Travis Air Force Base was established east of Fairfield in 1942 and has played an important role in the area's economy and history ever since.
The base later became Travis Air Force Base and was annexed into Fairfield in 1966.
6. Jelly Belly Calls Fairfield Home
Yes, those colorful little jelly beans are part of Fairfield's story.
Fairfield is home to the Jelly Belly Candy Company, whose factory has become a well-known attraction for visitors.
7. Fairfield Is Close to Wine Country
Fairfield sits near Suisun Valley and Green Valley, areas known for vineyards and wineries.
So Fairfield residents don't have to go very far to enjoy Northern California wine country.
8. Fairfield Sits Between Major California Destinations
Fairfield's location puts it roughly between San Francisco and Sacramento, while Napa Valley is also nearby.
Its location along major transportation routes has helped Fairfield grow into an important community for residents and businesses.
A City With More Stories Than You Might Expect
Fairfield may not always get the same attention as San Francisco, Sacramento, or Napa, but that's part of its charm. Its history combines agriculture, transportation, military influence, food, wine, business, and a diverse community.
Sometimes the most interesting places aren't the ones with the biggest headlines—they're the ones with the best stories.
Thursday, August 13, 2026
How to manage your emotions
Explore the framework known as the Process Model, a psychological tool to help you identify, understand, and regulate your emotions.
--
After a week of studying, you feel confident that you'll ace your exam. But when you get your grade back, it's much lower than you expected. You’re devastated, and the disappointment is hard to shake. Should you be trying to look on the bright side? And is controlling your emotions even possible? Explore techniques to help you identify, understand, and regulate your emotions.
Directed by Daniel Stankler.
Monday, August 10, 2026
2nd Tuesday of Every Month
The Homicide Survivors Support Group offers a compassionate space for those affected by violent loss. Together, we share our grief, support one another, and honor our loved ones. Our mission is to foster healing, resilience, and hope in the face of
Friday, August 7, 2026
Tuesday, August 4, 2026
The benefits of daydreaming - Elizabeth Cox
Enter the mind of a bored teenager to discover what happens in the brain when we daydream and find out what purpose it serves.
--
On a daily basis, you spend between a third and half of your waking hours daydreaming. That may sound like a huge waste of time, but scientists think it must have some purpose, or humans wouldn’t have evolved to do so much of it. So, what exactly happens in the brain while you daydream? Elizabeth Cox takes a closer look at the science of daydreaming through the mind of a teenager.
Lesson by Elizabeth Cox, directed by Biljana Labović.
Saturday, August 1, 2026
Wednesday, July 29, 2026
Quote of the Month
"Sometimes life is bumpy & blue, filled with gobs
of goo-gunk & sticky-ick stew.
But you'll find your way & you'll pull yourself through.
You're stupendously strong!
But, mostly, you're YOU!"
-DR. SEUSS
Sunday, July 26, 2026
What's a Food Allergy -- and What's Not? | Body Stuff with Dr. Jen Gunter | TED
People often mix up food allergies and food intolerances, even though they require completely different medical treatments. Dr. Jen Gunter explains how allergies quickly trigger the immune system, while intolerances disrupt digestion and can sometimes take days to show up. Learn how to spot the difference and get a better understanding of how your body reacts to food.
Thursday, July 23, 2026
Tuesday, July 21, 2026
Thursday, July 16, 2026
Tuesday, July 14, 2026
2nd Tuesday
The Homicide Survivors Support Group offers a compassionate space for those affected by violent loss. Together, we share our grief, support one another, and honor our loved ones. Our mission is to foster healing, resilience, and hope in the face of
Saturday, July 11, 2026
How the food you eat affects your gut - Shilpa Ravella
The bacteria in our guts can break down food the body can’t digest, produce important nutrients, regulate the immune system, and protect against harmful germs. And while we can’t control all the factors that go into maintaining a healthy gut microbiome, we can manipulate the balance of our microbes by paying attention to what we eat. Shilpa Ravella shares the best foods for a healthy gut.
Wednesday, July 8, 2026
Sunday, July 5, 2026
Health and Safety Corner
Mental Health Awareness
July is National Minority Mental Health Awareness month. According to the Stop Mental Health Stigma Organization, Black, Latino, Caribbean, and Asian American communities often face more hurdles in getting mental health care.
Some of the biggest obstacles include:
- Lack of access to quality or affordable care
- Cultural stigma and fear of being judged
- Language barriers
- Mistrust of the medical system
- Not enough providers who understand their backgrounds
For more information, visit: https://www.stopmentalhealthstigma.com
Friday, July 3, 2026
Monday, June 29, 2026
Friday, June 26, 2026
Last Saturday Community Service Day
When: Saturday, June 27, 2026
Time: 9:00am – 11:00am
Where: Matt Garcia Foundation Office, 717 Texas Street, Fairfield, CA 94533
The Matt Garcia Foundation will provide gloves, garbage pickers and buckets for collecting the trash.
Students can earn community service hours. Lunch provided after the cleanup.
For more information www.FFINEST.org
To receive updated information on volunteering opportunities, sign up for our text alerts. Text: 81010 | Enter: @mgfv
Tuesday, June 23, 2026
What lack of sleep does to the teenage brain - Wendy Troxel
Dig into how sleep deprivation affects the teenage body and brain, and what can be done to help adolescents get enough sleep.
--
Sleep deprivation among American teenagers is an epidemic. Only about 1 in 10 teens gets the 8 to 10 hours of sleep per night recommended by sleep scientists and pediatricians. So, what’s going on? And what changes can be made to address this issue? Wendy Troxel shares how early school start times and public policy are depriving adolescents of sleep at a time when they need it most.
Directed by Laura Jayne Hodkin.
Sunday, June 21, 2026
Wednesday, June 17, 2026
Sunday, June 14, 2026
Thursday, June 11, 2026
How stress affects your body - Sharon Horesh Bergquist
Our hard-wired stress response is designed to gives us the quick burst of heightened alertness and energy needed to perform our best. But stress isn’t all good. When activated too long or too often, stress can damage virtually every part of our body. Sharon Horesh Bergquist gives us a look at what goes on inside our body when we are chronically stressed.
Lesson by Sharon Horesh Bergquist, animation by Adriatic Animation.
Monday, June 8, 2026
Friday, June 5, 2026
2nd Tuesday of Every Month
The Homicide Survivors Support Group offers a compassionate space for those affected by violent loss. Together, we share our grief, support one another, and honor our loved ones. Our mission is to foster healing, resilience, and hope in the face of
Tuesday, June 2, 2026
How to make smart decisions more easily
Explore the psychology of decision fatigue, what kinds of choices lead us to this state and what we can do to fight it.
--
Everything our bodies do— whether physical or mental— uses energy. Studies have found that many individuals seem to have a daily threshold for making decisions, and an extended period of decision-making can lead to cognitive exhaustion. So, what kinds of choices lead us to this state, and what can we do to fight fatigue? Explore the psychology of decision fatigue and ways you can avoid fatigue.
Directed by Jolene Tan.
Saturday, May 30, 2026
Volunteer Clean Up, TODAY!
When: Saturday, May 30, 2026
Time: 9:00am – 11:00am
Where: Matt Garcia Foundation Office, 717 Texas Street, Fairfield, CA 94533
The Matt Garcia Foundation will provide gloves, garbage pickers and buckets for collecting the trash.
Students can earn community service hours. Lunch provided after the cleanup.
For more information www.FFINEST.org
To receive updated information on volunteering opportunities, sign up for our text alerts.
Text: 81010 | Enter: @mgfv
Wednesday, May 27, 2026
The benefits of a good night's sleep - Shai Marcu
It’s 4am, and the big test is in 8 hours. You’ve been studying for days, but you still don’t feel ready. Should you drink another cup of coffee and spend the next few hours cramming? Or should you go to sleep? Shai Marcu defends the latter option, showing how sleep restructures your brain in a way that’s crucial for how our memory works.
Lesson by Shai Marcu, animation by Javier Saldeña.
Sunday, May 24, 2026
Outstanding Youth
Spotlight on Je'lon Steward
From the beginning of his internship, it was clear that Je’lon Stewart was someone special. He stood out right away as smart, dependable, focused, and committed to doing things well. He shows up on time, handles his responsibilities carefully, completes paperwork correctly, and follows through on what is expected of him. He is someone the team can truly count on.
What makes Je’lon even more impressive is the way he uses his strengths. His critical thinking, attention to detail, and ability to work well with others have made him more than just a strong intern. He has become a real asset to the team and someone whose presence makes a difference.
Beyond his skills, Je’lon brings maturity, purpose, and heart to everything he does. He is a joy to be around and a joy to have on the team. He approaches his work with intention, and that says a great deal about the kind of person he is becoming.
Je’lon is absolutely someone to watch. He does not just have talent. He uses it with care, character, and determination, and that combination will take him far.
Thursday, May 21, 2026
Tuesday, May 19, 2026
What percentage of your brain do you use? - Richard E. Cytowic
Two thirds of the population believes a myth that has been propagated for over a century: that we use only 10% of our brains. Hardly! Our neuron-dense brains have evolved to use the least amount of energy while carrying the most information possible -- a feat that requires the entire brain. Richard E. Cytowic debunks this neurological myth (and explains why we aren't so good at multitasking).
Lesson by Richard E. Cytowic, animation by TOGETHER.
Saturday, May 16, 2026
The Matt Garcia Foundation: Supporting Students in Fairfield, CA
The The Matt Garcia Foundation helps students in Fairfield and surrounding communities reach their educational goals. Founded in memory of Matt Garcia, the organization focuses on scholarships, mentorship, and community support for young people who want to build a brighter future.
Through fundraising events and local partnerships, the foundation provides financial assistance to students pursuing college, trade school, and other educational opportunities. The organization also encourages leadership, community involvement, and personal growth.
Families, businesses, and community members can support the foundation by donating, volunteering, or attending local events. Every contribution helps students continue their education and achieve long-term success.
Tuesday, May 12, 2026
2nd Tuesday of Every Month
The Homicide Survivors Support Group offers a compassionate space for those affected by violent loss. Together, we share our grief, support one another, and honor our loved ones. Our mission is to foster healing, resilience, and hope in the face of
Saturday, May 9, 2026
How do you know you’re not dreaming? - Daniel Gregory
Bizarre things happen in dreams: you fly, or conjure an all-you-can-eat buffet out of thin air, or get chased by witches through the halls of your school. But the strange things that happen in dreams don’t seem strange at the time. So, how do you know you’re not in a dream right now? Is there a way to prove that you're awake? Daniel Gregory digs into the philosophical theories of wakefulness.
Lesson by Daniel Gregory, directed by Daniel Stankler.
Wednesday, May 6, 2026
Orange Creamsicle Protein Smoothie
5 ingredients and 5 minutes is all that is standing between you and this dreamy Orange Creamsicle Protein Smoothie. It's bursting with orange flavor and is incredibly creamy.
PREP TIME: 5 minutes
TOTAL TIME: 5 minutes
Ingredients
1/2 cup orange juice
1/2 cup almond milk
1/4 cup greek yogurt
1 scoop vanilla protein powder
1/4 banana
1/2 cup ice
Instructions
1. Add all the ingredients to the blender.
2. Blend on high for 30 seconds.
Sunday, May 3, 2026
Wednesday, April 29, 2026
Outstanding Youth of the Month
Emily Reyes Rubio
Emily brings light and positive energy into our after-school program every single day. She is charismatic, supportive, funny, and incredibly hardworking, which makes her a wonderful presence among both her peers and instructors. Her positive attitude and sense of humor help create a welcoming and enjoyable environment for everyone in the program. Her grades reflect not only how intelligent she is, but also how much effort and determination she puts into her work.
She approaches challenges with persistence and always strives to improve and learn more. Emily consistently demonstrates responsibility, focus, and a strong commitment to reaching her goals.
Saturday, April 25, 2026
Thursday, April 23, 2026
Last Saturday Community Service Day
When: Saturday, April 25, 2026
Time: 9:00am – 11:00am
Where: Matt Garcia Foundation Office, 717 Texas Street, Fairfield, CA 94533
The Matt Garcia Foundation will provide gloves, garbage pickers and buckets for collecting the trash.
Students can earn community service hours. Lunch provided after the cleanup.
For more information www.FFINEST.org
To receive updated information on volunteering opportunities, sign up for our text alerts. Text: 81010 | Enter: @mgfv
Direct: 707.372.4160
Email: info@ffinest.org
Website
Monday, April 20, 2026
Friday, April 17, 2026
PAL Pizza
This month, Raymond stepped in to deliver our Pizza 4 PAL to our friends at Fairfield PAL.
A special thank you to Andy, who faithfully delivers pizza each month and helps make this simple but meaningful tradition possible. It is always a blessing to continue showing up for our youth in ways that remind them they are seen, supported, and cared for.
Grateful for our partnership with Fairfield PAL and for everyone who helps us continue creating these moments of connection and consistency for our community.
Direct: 707.372.4160
Email: info@ffinest.org
Website
Tuesday, April 14, 2026
Third Thursday Craft Event
There is something special about watching creativity bring people together.
Our 3rd Thursday Craft Day at the Matt Garcia Foundation was filled with smiles, conversation, and simple moments that matter.
This month our friend Dana brought little Josie, and she completely stole our hearts creating a special bag for each of her family members. She carefully made one for everyone, each with its own personal touch—a beautiful reminder of how much love can be poured into something handmade.
A special thank you to Vince and Sheila for being such faithful monthly participants and helping bring creativity and heart to our craft days at the Matt Garcia Foundation. Your presence and support help make these gatherings so meaningful each month.
These monthly gatherings are about more than crafts—they are about creating space for connection, kindness, creativity, and community for all ages.
We are grateful for every person who continues to show up, share time together, and help keep Matt’s spirit of love and community alive.
Join us every 3rd Thursday of the month at the Matt Garcia Foundation—we would love to have you with us.
Direct: 707.372.4160
Email: info@ffinest.org
Website
Saturday, April 11, 2026
Wednesday, April 8, 2026
2nd Tuesday of Every Month
The Homicide Survivors Support Group offers a compassionate space for those affected by violent loss. Together, we share our grief, support one another, and honor our loved ones. Our mission is to foster healing, resilience, and hope in the face of
Sunday, April 5, 2026
Friday, April 3, 2026
What would happen if you didn’t drink water? - Mia Nacamulli
Water is essentially everywhere in our world, and the average human is composed of between 55 and 60% water. So what role does water play in our bodies, and how much do we actually need to drink to stay healthy? Mia Nacamulli details the health benefits of hydration.
Tuesday, March 31, 2026
Health and Safety Corner
Drinking water is essential for your health!
According to the Centers For Disease Control, drinking enough water every day is important for health. Drinking water can prevent dehydration, which may cause unclear thinking, mood change, overheating, constipation, and kidney stones. Water has no calories, so replacing sugary drinks with plain water can help reduce caloric intake. Water is also in certain fruits, veggies and other healthy drinks (such as watermelon, oranges, spinach).
How much should you drink?
Women should drink about 2.7 liters daily and men should drink about 3.6 liters. Keep in mind, some of the daily required water intake can come from other healthy drinks and fruits. However, it is recommended to make sure that the majority of your daily fluid intake comes from pure water.
For more info visit: cdc.gov
Saturday, March 28, 2026
Wednesday, March 25, 2026
Rotary Club Good Character Youth Award
On February 25th, 2026, Karen Reygoza, one of our own members of the Matt Garcia Foundation, was one of 20 local high school youth to receive the prestigious Good Character Award! Karen was nominated by Fairfield Police Activities League (PAL) Director Heather Sanderson.
In addition to Karen, the other outstanding PAL youth members who also received the Good Character Award are: Italia Faatsui-Gi, Mohammad Ammar Ajmerwala, Enrique Garcia and Oscar Chavez.
The Rotary Club of Fairfield-Suisun honors youth who demonstrate exceptional ethics, kindness and community service. The award aims to foster good mental well-being, and encourages positive and responsible citizenship.
Karen Reygoza sets a great example by being active with the Matt Garcia Foundation, exhibiting kind behavior, and helping others. Way to go Karen, we are so proud of you and the other award recipients for 2026!!
Sunday, March 22, 2026
Outstanding Youth!
Georgia Marie Teat is a 8th Grader with the Matt Garcia Career and College Academy
Georgia is a hardworking and dedicated student who brings positivity wherever she goes. In our after-school program, she is known for always having a smile on her face and making others laugh. Georgia is consistently helpful to staff and peers, demonstrating kindness and a strong sense of responsibility. She shines during art activities, where her creativity truly stands out, and she also shows a wide range of athletic ability. Most importantly, Georgia has shown true determination in her academic work, striving to do her best and continually grow. She is a wonderful role model and a valued student in our program.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)