Over a year ago, Stephanie Vargas was concerned about her 13-year-old son, Salvador. He was being bullied at school and is on the autism spectrum — a combination that made an already challenging time even harder. Recognizing that he needed someone he could talk to, she turned to Community Medical Centers for help.
Today, Salvador receives consistent care from West Lane Associate Social Worker Napoleon Anzar. Over time, they have built a trusting relationship that has helped Salvador open up and take an active role in his care.
“I have watched Salvador develop a really beautiful relationship with Napoleon,” Stephanie says. “He actually reminds me. He says, ‘Mom, hey, did you schedule my appointment with Napoleon?’ ”
For Stephanie, finding that connection wasn’t guaranteed. In the past, she found seeking care with non-CMC providers frustrating and overwhelming.
“I’ve had experiences where it’s very difficult to navigate the system to find the appropriate care,” Stephanie adds. “We really want our adolescents to know that there is a safe space, there is someone you can go and talk to. You don’t have to hide. You don’t have to struggle. It’s been a blessing to know Salvador is open to having those conversations with someone and being able to express himself.”
Working at a behavioral health facility that serves adults, Stephanie has seen firsthand what can happen when individuals don’t get the help they need early in life.
“If we reach our adolescents at the right time and provide the right supports, we may see fewer of them needing mental health treatment as adults,” she says. “If we address these needs now and let them know help is there, it can truly make a difference for the future.”
In Salvador’s case, that difference is already clear. Appointments now begin with a brief check-in together before Salvador spends time one-on-one with Napoleon.
“And when Salvador comes out, he’s all smiles,” Stephanie says. “He tells me it was a great session. And then he reminds me, ‘Make sure I have my next appointment with Napoleon.’ ”
Community Medical Centers (CMC) is building momentum toward the completion of Stockton’s first Adolescent Health Center, a first-of-its-kind facility designed specifically to meet the needs of teens and young adults.
Currently under construction in downtown Stockton, the center will bring together primary care, behavioral health, dental services, and supportive resources in one location—making it easier for young people to access the care they need.
With $8 million already secured, CMC is working to raise the final $1 million needed to complete the project and open its doors.
Addressing a Critical Need
Adolescence is a pivotal stage of life, when lifelong health habits take shape. Yet many young people face barriers to care—especially for sensitive issues like mental health, substance use, and reproductive health.
The Adolescent Health Center is designed to address these gaps by creating a welcoming, youth-focused environment where patients feel comfortable seeking care and asking questions.
“Adolescence is when lifelong health patterns take shape,” said CMC CEO Greg Diederich. “Creating a center focused specifically on their needs allows us to bring services together in one place and better support their future health.”
Designed with Youth in Mind
What sets this center apart is not just the services offered, but how it was designed. Members of CMC’s Youth Advisory Committee played an active role in shaping the vision—ensuring the space reflects what young people actually want and need from a healthcare experience.
For many teens, traditional healthcare settings can feel uncomfortable or unwelcoming. The new center aims to change that by creating a space where young people feel seen, heard, and supported.
Community Support Driving Progress
The project has already received strong backing from community leaders, foundations, businesses, and individual donors. That support has brought the campaign within reach of its final goal.
Completing the remaining $1 million will allow CMC to fully realize the vision for the center and expand access to comprehensive, whole-person care for young people across the region.
Looking Ahead
Once complete, the Adolescent Health Center will stand as a major investment in the health and well-being of the next generation—providing coordinated care during a critical stage of life and helping young people build a healthier future.
To learn more about the project or how to support the campaign, visit the project website or contact Jennie Rodriguez-Moore.
STOCKTON — Community Medical Centers and Tuleburg Press are bringing poetry, performance and storytelling to San Joaquin Delta College from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. in a free, community-centered event that explores behavioral health, substance use and today’s social justice issues.
The WordsOutspoken Literary & Resource Fair will connect audiences with local writers, offer opportunities to engage with the literary arts, and highlight creative expression as a tool for healing and community dialogue. The event will take place at Delta College’s Dawn Mabalon Forum and feature an impressive lineup of poets and authors:
Alongside the live performances, Delta College’s Dolores Huerta Plaza will host a Community Poetry Wall inviting attendees to contribute their own words and reflections; a KidsLit Corner offering storytime, free books and fun activities for children; and an Open Mic tent providing attendees a chance to express themselves onstage. Booths featuring local artisans, small businesses and food vendors will fill the plaza.
“This event is unique because it combines the arts with healing, wellness and community engagement,” says Jennie Rodriguez, CMC Director of Development. “We’re celebrating community voices through poetry and performance, exploring topics like community trauma, social injustice, substance use, and behavioral health, while also connecting attendees with local resources.” Email WordsOutspoken@cmcenters.org for more information.
