CalSAC's Trainer Network builds the training and facilitation skills of out-of-school time professionals and connects them to a vast network of their peers, organizations and resources to help them develop professionally and deepen their impact on the children and communities they serve.  In turn, these individuals provide training and support to staff working in a variety of youth development programs across the state.  When individual providers increase their skills and confidence, it benefits not just the young people they work with, but the strength of the out-of-school time field as a whole.

Professionals who join the Trainer Network hone and deepen their:

  • Training and facilitation skills

  • Ability to deliver effective technical assistance

  • Leadership capacity

  • Knowledge and connection to the statewide out-of-school time field

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How to Become a Certified Trainer

CalSAC Apprentice Trainers complete an 8-month certification process where they participate in a three-day intensive Training of Trainers Institute, implement CalSAC's on-site training curriculum to programs in their community, and receive ongoing mentoring from a Senior Certified Trainer.  

The Training of Trainers Institute (ToT) is the beginning of the trainer's journey, and is foundational to the CalSAC trainer experience.  This multi-day, rigorous professional development experience prepares participants to deliver high-quality training and thrive as members of the CalSAC Trainer Network.  Participants leave the ToT equipped with a range of resources, new contacts and a deeper connection to the out-of-school time community.

Applications to join the CalSAC Trainer Network are currently closed. For information on how to become a Trainer in the future, please contact Hannah Davidman at hdavidman@calsac.org or 510-444-4622 ext110.

Trainer Testimonials

Trainer Testimonials
Leslie Grier, Trainer since 2007
Leslie Grier, Trainer since 2007

"I have gained more information about how to work effectively with children, and more in-depth knowledge about important topics such as the development of English Language Learners, and the application of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) in Out-of-School-Time programs.  Also, I have met wonderful people and colleagues through the Trainer Network!" 

Katherine Rodrigues, Trainer since 2015
Katherine Rodrigues, Trainer since 2015

"My involvement with the Trainer Network has helped me connect with other professionals in the field as far north as Eureka to as far south as San Diego.  It's truly amazing to gain new comrades who are either just beginning or well seasoned in out-of-school time programming.  I learned that we all share a common "fire", which is to impact the lives of those who cross our paths, whether the lives of participants, families or [people in the] communities we serve.  In this alone I've gained the hope I needed...to know that I'm not alone.”

Enrique Villagrana, Trainer since 2016
Enrique Villagrana, Trainer since 2016

“Being part of the Trainer Network has opened up doors to unique opportunities like Science Action Club and being a Training of Trainers lead, allowing me to grow personally and professionally.  The Trainer Network has connected me to hundreds of committed and dedicated professionals all over California.  I am truly a part of something bigger than myself!”

Donna Frey, Trainer since 2015
Donna Frey, Trainer since 2015

"I love to train and would do it full time if I could. I believe that front line staff are often placed on the job without the skills, knowledge, and tools necessary to be successful. I believe that it is just as important to work with your staff and help them grow as it is for our students. By doing this we are creating leaders who can take the skills and knowledge gained and provide quality programming to other youth work in the future. If we don't take the time to invest in our staff, who will?"