When St. John Bosco founded the Salesians in 1859, his mission was clear and simple: to be a friend - a friend to kids who were poor, kids abandoned, kids at risk - and, in so doing, to be a friend to Christ. Today, this Catholic religious organization continues doing the work of the Lord in the spirit of its founder - with over 40,000 Salesian priests, brothers, sisters, and lay people working in 120 countries all over the world. Whether in Colombia, South America - or in Columbus, Ohio - the goal of the Salesians is the same: to give kids in need a chance at a full life. Don Bosco (Italian for Father Bosco) left a legacy of love that is as strong today as it was over 100 years ago when he said, "It is enough that you are young for me to love you!" • A special concern for the welfare of young people wherever we are. • Loving kindness and a welcoming attitude – lived out in openness, cordiality, readiness to make the first approach and to put others at ease with our friendship, respect and patience. • Optimism and Joy. There is no place for discouragement in the face of difficulties, but a calm and serene acceptance of whatever is good. • Work and temperance or learning how to balance tireless energy and hard work with simplicity and moderation. It also means knowing how to control the promptings of the heart in order to remain even-tempered and serene. • Acceptance of daily routine with cheerfulness. “Here we make sanctity consist in doing our duty cheerfully.” • Creativity and flexibility - hallmarks of Salesian presence in our works among the young. • A realistic perspective on life coupled with our attentiveness to the promptings of the Spirit manifested through the signs of the times. • Our educative method - ‘The Preventive System’ – is a system based entirely on reason, religion and loving kindness, a unique spiritual and educational experience of working with and through the young for their and our salvation. • Deep trust in God and a constant listening to His will are the spiritual foundations of our work. In this way we strive to keep alive our collaboration in God’s creative and loving action in history. To know more on the Salesians of Don Bosco visit: www.salesianvocation.com