Chestnut Center’s presence, people, and the service have made my life in Berkeley so much more meaningful. I got introduced to Chestnut when I was a freshman, and at first, I valued going there because I felt like I was being valued and recognized by people living and going to the center. That meant a lot to me being a student surrounded by very competitive students. Over time, I have gotten so much out of the center’s generosity and availability that include mentorship, weekly circle, meditation, recollection, and retreat, on top of fun events such as breakfast hangouts and movie nights. The formation I get out of the Chestnut Center is very solid and intellectually stimulating, especially learning about virtues and how to use it in daily life to become a better Christian has made my life change in a much more meaningful way. Chestnut Center is my second home and a community that is very valuable.

-Hannah, UC Berkeley student

Chestnut Center has been a fundamental part of my university experience. The formation I underwent and continue to go will stay with me throughout my life, and continue to grow my spiritual development. Chestnut offered a space of truly incorporating the spirit of the Work - God’s Work - through circles, spontaneous invitations to breakfast, long, deep conversations, and being centered in a community that truly cares about me, Kateri, as a person and daughter of God. I’m excited for the next step of my life in my pursuit of graduate school, and having the discipline that was honed in by my formation will catapult me into continuing to pursue God and His Will, and to not stop when I’m tired, but to stop when I’m done.

-Kateri, San Diego, California

I came to Chestnut as a freshman, knowing no one in Berkeley and just knowing San Josemaria by name. Because of Chestnut and all the amazing women that take care of the formation at the center, my faith grew; I developed meaningful friendships, and my college struggles gained meaning. Most importantly, I could discern my vocation and find my vacation within the work. Over the years, I have received formation and been to college activities, daily mass, and retreats, which have genuinely changed my life.

-Annai, EL Paso, Texas

Chestnut Center is a very special place. My daughter and I are truly blessed to be able to participate in the amazing classes, symposiums, mother's exchange, and Christian doctrine classes that Chestnut Center offers. I often tell people that Chestnut Center is my happy place.

-Mariana, Walnut Creek, California

I have been receiving formation from Chestnut Center for over 30 years. Chestnut inspired me and other moms to start and maintain personal initiatives such as Camp Monte Stella Leadership Camp, Leadership Clubs, Book Clubs, Service Projects, Fundraising, Teens Hospitality Forums and mentorship. Thank you, Chestnut Center, for your support to me, my family and my friends.

-Sue, Concord, California

Chestnut Center has been a second home for me for many years now. Through different life stages, I have benefited immensely from their various formation activities. But, perhaps more importantly, Chestnut Center is such a happy place! I always feel happier and more optimistic after I visit. The joy there is palpable and contagious – a true mark of excellence.

-Amada, Concord, California