Putting Train-the-Trainer Into Practice: MSW Intern Doris Sanchez’s First Co-Facilitation Experience
posted on: August 4, 2026
category: Community Spotlight
This past July, I had the privilege of co-facilitating my very first Open Doors Core Training alongside seasoned facilitators, Kat Besse and Francisco Valverde, in Yuba City, CA.
Our hosts, the Sutter County Probation Department, welcomed us so warmly into their space, where we had the opportunity to train about 28 adults working in a variety of roles — including juvenile probation, behavioral health, and local schools.
Many of our participants had worked with youth for more than eight years. Throughout the day, I was deeply inspired by the passion, genuine interest, care, and commitment they brought into the room. We had attentive listeners, thoughtful questions, and meaningful moments of reflection as we acknowledged the frustrations and barriers that can come with working alongside youth.
Our attendees arrived ready to learn and eager to strengthen their connections with the young people they serve each day.
As an MSW intern with Open Doors who recently completed the Train-the-Trainer program, this opportunity deepened my gratitude for every person who works with youth.
Seeing the attendees’ passion was a powerful experience that I will treasure for a long time. I connected with this community through our shared belief in young people and our commitment to personal growth as a way to strengthen the relationships we build with them.
Throughout the training, I felt a genuine sense of care and connection in the room. Naming needs, validating challenges, and creating a safe space where we could be vulnerable, reflective, and curious was incredibly empowering.
I applaud every individual who invests their time, energy, and self-awareness into showing up genuinely and with love for their communities… and, most importantly, for our youth.
