Children from Phoenix's Latin community recently participated in a two-day workshop at the Church of Scientology of Phoenix, where they learned practical principles for leading moral and responsible lives through the book The Way to Happiness.
The workshop, delivered by volunteers from the Church of Scientology, introduced participants to the precepts contained in The Way to Happiness, a nonreligious guide to better living written by author and humanitarian L. Ron Hubbard. Through interactive discussions and activities, the children explored practical concepts such as caring for oneself, respecting others, telling the truth, setting a good example, and contributing positively to their communities.
The program was organized in partnership with Salud en Balance (Health in Balance), a community organization founded by educator and community advocate Teresa Sosa to empower underserved youth and families through education, leadership development, and community engagement.
The workshop comes at a time when many communities continue to seek effective ways to provide positive guidance for young people. According to crime statistics, Phoenix recorded nearly 39,000 property crimes and more than 13,000 violent crimes in a recent year, with overall crime rates exceeding state and national averages. Additionally, juvenile detention admissions in Maricopa County increased from 1,705 in 2023 to 2,300 in 2025.
After becoming acquainted with The Way to Happiness and learning about the success achieved by organizations that have used the book in youth and community programs around the world, Ms. Sosa saw it as a valuable resource for the families she serves. She partnered with volunteers from the Church of Scientology of Phoenix to make the workshop available to local children.
Guided by L. Ron Hubbard's statement, "Today's children will become tomorrow's civilization," participants spent the two-day program discussing how everyday decisions affect themselves, their families, and their communities. The children actively participated in group exercises and conversations designed to help them understand how simple acts of honesty, kindness, respect, and responsibility can contribute to happier, more successful lives.
"The principles in The Way to Happiness are practical and easy for young people to understand," said a workshop volunteer. "When children learn to make responsible choices and treat others with respect, they become better equipped to succeed in school, at home, and in their communities."
The Church of Scientology supports community initiatives that promote education, character development, and humanitarian values. Workshops based on The Way to Happiness are part of the Church's broader humanitarian efforts to help individuals build stronger, safer, and more harmonious communities through common-sense moral principles.
The Way to Happiness has been translated into more than 110 languages and distributed in tens of millions of copies worldwide. Its 21 precepts provide practical guidance intended to help people of any culture, religion, or background live happier lives. Find out more on the The Way to Happiness online website.
