27 years ago, founder Ruben Vasquez began his journey in education in Los Angeles County, working primarily with middle and high school students.

In the early 2000s, Ruben collaborated with a teacher to support a new program designed for students who had disengaged from continuation school. This initiative, called the ‘Evening Alternative Program’, operated from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM. It was during this time that Ruben earned the nickname “Chubs,” a name that stuck and became part of the program’s legacy.

Later, Ruben played a key role in launching three alternative-to-suspension programs:

• STEP (Steps To Increase Peace)

• PATH (Pointing Adolescents Toward Health)

• STAY (Smoking Tobacco and You)

Thousands of students completed these programs over the years, with many staying in touch long after. What follows is a glimpse into the memories and impact of the program that gave rise to “Chubs.”