*This is a special feature from the City of San José, Department of Parks, Recreation and Neighborhood Services
March is Women’s History Month, a month dedicated to reflecting on and celebrating the impactful contributions of women throughout history. This March, we recognize a group of women making change happen in our San José communities through thoughtful programming.

The Female Intervention Team (FIT) is a Youth Intervention Services program within the San José Youth Empowerment Alliance that focuses on empowering at-risk and gang-involved young women in San José. Through meaningful mentorship, group activities, and introducing youth to new positive experiences, FIT is helping girls and young women in San José’s underserved communities unlock their full potential, gain confidence, and choose a better path for their future.

FIT doesn’t just provide skills—it offers a sense of belonging and a community of support. A program participant, Lynn Ho, describes the FIT program as inclusive and empowering. “They welcomed me with open arms even though I was shy at first, but from being in the program for a little bit, it has showed me new resolutions, new connections, and friends,” said Lynn. FIT helped Lynn overcome personal struggles and made her feel welcome, despite her initial shyness.

A group of young women participate in a meaningful discussion during a Girls Group activity.

One of the key elements of the FIT program is Girls Group, where participants come together to talk about topics like self-worth, healthy relationships, and decision making in a safe environment. The discussions help foster a supportive community where everyone can share and learn from one another’s experiences without judgement.

In addition to group programming, individual mentoring services provide each participant with guidance and allows FIT staff to celebrate even the smallest steps of progress for each participant, such as improved school attendance.

“Through various activities and mentorship, I've gained a deeper understanding of the world and my place in it. This program has inspired me to set ambitious goals and strive to be someone who makes a positive impact in life,” Ashley Tamayo shares about her experience participating in the FIT program.

The FIT program empowers young women like Ashley by expanding their horizons through new experiences. FIT staff organize outings to different neighborhoods, cultural events, and pro-social activities in San José. These experiences help the young women broaden their perspectives and be open to explore new opportunities that they may not have considered before.

Program participants showcase their artwork at a FIT group activity focused on self-worth and identity.

FIT also prioritizes education, encouraging the girls to stay engaged in school and rewarding their academic improvements, no matter how small. The emphasis on education is a crucial part of helping these young women feel empowered to build a brighter future.

The women running the FIT program come from diverse backgrounds, which helps them connect with and support each participant in unique and meaningful ways. These women are role models, advocates, and mentors who genuinely care about the growth of the girls and young women in the program. They work hard to help participants recognize their own strengths and build the confidence to reach their personal, academic, and career goals.

As we wrap up Women's History Month, it’s important to honor the women in our communities who are working hard each day to make a positive difference in the lives of others. This team of women is dedicated to giving other young women the tools they need to build their futures. The Female Intervention Team is not only changing the lives of young women in San José—it’s creating a lasting impact in our neighborhoods and future generations through community support.

To learn more about the Female Intervention Team and other Youth Intervention Services programs, visit the San José Youth Empowerment Alliance website.

The ActivateSJ Strategic Plan is the City of San José's Department of Parks, Recreation and Neighborhood Services (PRNS) plan to maintain, improve and expand our facilities, programs, and services. The plan guides how we care for and develop a diverse park system and an abundance of recreation programs and services for all in San José.

ActivateSJ’s mission is to connect people through parks, recreation, and neighborhood services for an active San José. To learn more about our department’s plan and vision to move forward, visit activatesj.org.