After-school, Summer Science Project, & Alive Outside Adventure Series
Richard Tejeda, founder of Saved By Nature and one of the original members of the Levin Clubhouse in South San Jose, exemplifies the power of community and leadership. For over a decade, he has partnered with Fred McCasland, the Director of Program Services for the Boys & Girls Club of Silicon Valley, to create impactful programs that champion environmental and social justice. Together, they’ve developed education and resource initiatives that empower young people and families, enhancing access to enriching activities for those who need it most. Their collaboration continues to make a lasting difference in the community.
The Story Behind Richard’s Inspiration
Growing up on the other side of the train tracks, Richard’s life was forever changed when his mom introduced him to the Boys & Girls Club at age 10. Working at the Davis Jr. High cafeteria, she brought him to the South Side Boys & Girls Club, where Unit Director Fred McCasland created a safe, vibrant space for neighborhood kids. Despite limited resources, Fred’s dedication ensured the children had a positive environment, even stepping in to protect them from negative influences like gangs and drugs.
Richard fondly recalls running excitedly to the club, where Fred’s leadership led him to play flag football, softball, basketball, and even become a champion ping-pong player. At Christmastime, Fred brought joy by taking the kids to dinners and giving them gifts from Santa. One summer, Richard attended a camping trip at Yosemite’s San Jose Family Camp—an experience so transformative that he vowed to one day return with his own family.
By eighth grade, Richard faced growing pressures from peers, his neighborhood, and even family. Fred, having firsthand knowledge of street life from his own Eastside San Jose upbringing, took Richard aside, warning him about the consequences of his choices and encouraging him to stay involved with the club. Despite Fred’s wisdom, Richard gradually drifted away, and Fred’s warnings unfortunately came true.
Now, years later, Richard has come full circle. For more than a decade, he has dedicated himself to providing opportunities for youth through month-long summer day camps, after-school programs, science clubhouse visits, and the launch of the Summer Science Project.
When asked why he pours his heart into these initiatives for the Boys & Girls Club, Richard reflected, *“Through the years I have realized that I grew up in a low-income community, the fact that I still had a decision, and that I made the wrong one. I do this because I want to be part of providing a choice to the kids, like Fred did for me.”*
Richard’s story is a testament to the power of mentorship and the lasting impact of providing young people with choices and positive influences.