Yosely Ocampo has a special place at KidWorks: a cubby, etched with her name, inside the preschool classroom on Chestnut Ave. This tiny remnant of Yosely’s time in preschool is a testament to her almost 20 years with KidWorks.

But Yosely wasn’t always sure that she’d find a community for herself in Santa Ana.  

Yosely grew up on Myrtle St. to hardworking parents who’d immigrated to the neighborhood from Mexico. In 2007, she was invited to enroll in preschool at KidWorks, but her mother was hesitant to accept. 

Like many other immigrant community members, Yosely’s mother sacrificed the life she’d built in Mexico to build new opportunities for her family in Santa Ana. Her oldest son was still back home. The possibility of returning to Mexico loomed over the family’s opportunities to establish roots locally. 

Despite the uncertainty, Yosely attended her first day of preschool at three-years-old. She was a friendly, outgoing, and intelligent student who quickly found her way around the classroom. 

KidWorks helped me not be shy. Everything that KidWorks did…opened more opportunities for me to explore the world around me and connect with people.”

Yosely Ocampo

Yosely wasn’t the only person to explore new horizons via KidWorks –– her mother joined in on the opportunity to build community inside the classroom. She prepared lunches for her daughter’s preschool classmates. She’d join the class on field trips. 

The tender moments Yosely shared with her mother at KidWorks’ preschool kept her excited to play and learn, but this routine soon fell apart. 

During her first year of preschool, Yosely’s maternal grandmother fell ill and required day-to-day care. Her mother made the difficult decision to relocate to Mexico and care for her mother in the final days of her life. 

For over a year, Yosely lived alone with her father in Santa Ana. This sudden disruption to her life at home impacted her ability to engage at school. She felt alone, wanting nothing more than to have her mother back by her side. 

The teachers at KidWorks’ preschool provided crucial support during this difficult transition, especially Alma Magaña, Early Learning/Family specialist. 

“I was able to build relationships at KidWorks preschool, especially with Ms. Alma. Even now that I’m in college, I reach out to her for support and she will guide me through any trouble I run into, whether it be coursework or a personal experience.”

Yosely Ocampo

Yosely posing for a picture with Ms. Alma and the rest of the preschool team at KidWorks.

When Yosely’s mother returned to the United States, everything seemed to fall back into place. until another big change shifted the dynamic at home. 

At four-years-old, Yosely met her older brother for the first time. He was 14, new to the United States, and often clashed with their parents as he navigated his transition to the U.S. from Mexico.  

Yosely had always been the only child at home. Her family dynamic was now permanently altered: she was a younger sister with a brother 10 years her senior. 

Despite these big changes, Yosely no longer retreated into herself like she’d done before. She turned to KidWorks for emotional support and navigated this transition via KidWorks programming. 

“Growing up, I was eating, sleeping KidWorks –– my whole world was KidWorks. I loved it so much that I let myself open up. I was comfortable. There were people that I knew since preschool up until high school. I was so comfortable knowing staff and the people in class that it motivated me to volunteer and take advantage of every bit of KidWorks programming from camping to college programming.”

Yosely celebrating her graduation from KidWorks’ preschool in 2008.

Campus Crash introduced Yosely to her future campus: California State University, Northridge (CSUN). She was excited to move away for college, but she was nervous to leave the community she had built at KidWorks. 

Clarisa Vargas, College & Career Director, ensured that KidWorks continue to provide Yosely with the resources to succeed at CSUN:

“Since I’ve known Yosely, she has participated as a PA from the SAY program with our summer programs, interned for Carrazco Law, and a part of our College & Career programs, where she receives the Gap Scholarship, a care package every fall, and a postcard/gift card every spring. I speak with Yosely every month. Through these chats, I have gotten to know Yosely personally and professionally. I have seen her through the good moments, and the tough ones too, but despite it all she always is positive and has a smile on her face. I love hearing about her life in college and helping her work through challenges related to classes, grades, financial aid, and life post-college. I know wherever life takes her, KidWorks will always be here cheering her on and she’ll be an incredible role model for our community.”

This month, Yosely joined the CSUN class of 2026 with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Criminal Justice. As a graduate, she’s eager to carve a new space for herself in Santa Ana. 

There’s an opportunity for a career in city government. Or perhaps, law school –– a field she’s excited to explore after interning with Carrazco Law, KidWorks’ esteemed partner in Orange County. 

Yosely knows that her life has many paths ahead. It’s hard to know which way to go, but KidWorks is her compass. 

Thank you Yosely for being part of the KidWorks story for nearly 20 years! We are cheering you on as you forge through this new chapter of your life. 

Yosely joins the class of 2026 at CSUN!

Because of the generosity of donors and partners, like Carrazco Law, Yosely grew up with more opportunities than she could have imagined.  When you support KidWorks with a financial donation, you are directly supporting students, like Yosely, in their journey to college and career success. Give today at kidworksoc.org/donate.

By Bryanna Paz, KidWorks Marketing & Communications Assistant

Monserrat Santillan Silva is used to letting life run its course. 

She’s a track star — captain of Century High School’s track & field team and a local celebrity recognized for her athletic performance during last year’s track season.  

In 2024, Monse ranked 53^rd at the CIF Southern Section Cross Country Championship. She knew there was room for improvement.  

Driven and disciplined, Monse leaned into her favorite aspect of her sport: the opportunity to do better with each run.  

Her efforts raced her to the top of the leaderboards her junior year. In 2025, Monse took 1^st place at the CIF Southern Section championship.  

It was a full circle moment — her proudest accomplishment yet. And it was only the first in her long list of accolades.  

Monse competed in the 5000-meter race at the 2025 CIF State Cross Country Championship, ranking her as one of the top 10 runners in California.   

Now, in her senior year of high school, Monse has committed to the University of Southern California (USC) on a full-ride athletic scholarship. She’ll join the school’s official track & field roster this upcoming year.  

During KidWorks’ College Apps Academy celebration, the Class of 2026 received their college sweatshirts!

Monse’s life might be fast paced with big changes around the corner, but there’s always someone waiting for her at the finish line.  

Parents, siblings, coaches, and her relationship with KidWorks staff at our Bishop Manor spoke center.  

For over 12 years, Monse has lived in the Bishop Manor neighborhood. She began attending KBM programming in kindergarten.  

From fun activities to field trips to academic support, Monse enjoyed having a safe place to study, play, and get support from mentors in her community.  

When KBM closed in 2020, Monse felt the loss of her support team at KidWorks.  

“It felt strange because KBM had been part of my routine for so many years. I missed seeing my friends and mentors regularly, and it changed the sense of connection and consistency I was used to after school. It was hard realizing something that had been such a big part of my childhood was ending,” she says.   

KBM’s initial closure was not the end of Monse’s relationship with KidWorks, however.  

She stayed in contact with Eva Ochoa, KidWorks alum and now KBM Site Supervisor. The two have cultivated a special bond throughout the years.  

Eva met Monse when she was just a toddler. The two share a lot in common.  

They both grew up in the same neighborhood. Their parents are from the same region in Mexico. Their older brothers attended KidWorks programming together. Now, the two share something else in common: Eva and Monse are outstanding KidWorks alumni with strong ties to KBM.  

KBM reopened in 2025, and Monse returned to the center along with her three younger brothers.  

But a lot has changed for Monse since KBM’s brief closure. Her schedule is a lot different than from when she was a child; there’s less time to jump in the pool or play with her friends on the playground.  

What hasn’t changed is her support system at KidWorks. Monse is a busy student-athlete, but Eva’s carved a special place for Monse at KBM.  

“Since I’ve known Monse since she was younger, I’ve always wanted KBM to continue feeling like a safe and welcoming place for her, even as life has gotten busier with school and sports. I try to check in with her personally and make sure she knows she always has a community at KBM that supports her,” Eva says.   

This April, Monse celebrated her commitment to USC at “Pickleball for a Purpose,” where she was highlighted as the event’s student speaker. The KidWorks Women Committee was honored to send Monse off with praise and prayer for her next journey through college.  

Monse shares her story to track & field success with the KidWorks Women at Pickleball for a Purpose

Monse will soon be a step closer to her first semester at USC. But even as Monse prepares to transition into college, she knows that there’s a home for her at KidWorks.  

“KidWorks continues supporting students even after high school graduation. Knowing there are still people checking in, offering guidance, and helping students succeed in college is really meaningful to me. It makes my transition into a new chapter feel less overwhelming.” 

Three seniors at KidWorks Bishop Manor are graduating in May 2026

Thank you, Monse, for being a part of the KidWorks story! The KidWorks team wishes you all the best in your new journey. Don’t forget about us when you become an all-star at USC!  Here’s a final note from Eva to you!

“Monse, I am so proud of the person you have become. You have worked incredibly hard and balanced so much with determination and grace. As you move into this next chapter, I hope you continue believing in yourself and all that you are capable of achieving. 

Never forget where you came from or the community that supports you. Keep challenging yourself, stay open to new experiences, and do not be afraid to step outside of your comfort zone. No matter where life takes you, KBM and KidWorks will always be cheering you on. I know you are going to do amazing things” – Eva.  

By Bryanna Paz, KidWorks Marketing & Communications Assistant

When you support KidWorks with a financial donation, you are directly helping to provide a path forward to an advanced degree for high school seniors, like Monse. Please click this link for more ways to give.

They’re headed to a college or university!

One of the most consequential decisions our students and their families make is selecting a college or university to attend following high school graduation.

Our College Apps (i.e. Application) Academy was introduced in 2021 because so many factors go into making those choices.

Many of our students are the first in their family to attend a college or university and the College Apps Academy provides essential guidance that might not otherwise be available.

To date, 135 KidWorks high school graduates have gone through the academy since 2017.

College Apps runs from September in one year, concluding around College Decision Day on May 1 the following year.

That’s why we invite you to join us in celebrating the 24 KidWorks students who have completed their 25-week College Apps Academy journey this season and have selected a college or university to attend beginning in the spring or fall.

“The College Apps Academy provides high school seniors with much-needed guidance through the college application process, including support with college and financial aid applications, scholarships, admissions essays and tips on how to have a successful transition into college,” says Clarisa Vargas, our College & Career Director.

“Completing the program and taking their next step towards higher education is a huge accomplishment for the students and their families,” Clarisa adds.

Clarisa also thanked Leslie Martinez, our former College & Career Coordinator, who recently left KidWorks for another opportunity.

“Leslie made so many valuable contributions to the College Apps Academy and to Campus Crash and we wish her all the best,” Clarisa said.

Before leaving, Leslie expressed her joy in helping make College Apps such a success these past months.

“A big part of making the College Apps Academy relevant is using wording that our students actually understand,” Leslie says. “We are also very proactive with each student and keep checking in with them. Plus, we give them space to just be seniors.”

She adds, “Parents are new to the process as well, so I wanted to create space for them to ask questions and receive reassurance that even though the process can be scary, it’s going to be okay.”

Here is what a few of the students who completed the latest 25-week experience say, long with their intended major at a university/college.

Stephany Alvarez, Godinez Fundamental High School (legal/business): “The College Apps Academy provides so many resources and helpful advice. Plus, I was able to meet new people and become more independent.”

Jose Arevalo, Valley High School (plumbing): “I learned not to be afraid to ask questions. Learning new skills was very exciting for me.”

Angelly Balam, Godinez Fundamental High School (music education): “I’m excited to get to experience a new environment, with new people and more opportunities, as not only a student, but also as a young adult who is learning about what the world is actually like. KidWorks provided me the support that I needed for my college application process. KidWorks also gave me moral support for my college audition.”

Chris Flores, Mater Dei High School (business): “KidWorks really guided me. College Apps Academy helps make sure students are on track to being successful.”

Shaila Jimenez, Godinez Fundamental High School (diagnostic medical sonography): “KidWorks has helped me so much by providing a mentor and also having one-on-one talks about life and outside of school. The academy helped me stay motivated throughout school.”

Jennifer Martinez, Valley High School (public health): “Having tutors showed me that people care about my future. I really appreciate the fact that not every student everywhere receives these resources and help.”

Brandon Valdez, Godinez Fundamental High School (art/digital media): “I’m excited because the academy will mean I’m the first in my family to go to college. The academy helped me to be more social, less dependent on others and use my resources better. The experience was very helpful in my development.”

Caleb Vazquez, Godinez Fundamental High School (HVAC): “I learned the importance of staying on top on my work. Making new friends and trying out new things was fun, too!”

Clarisa described what takes place during the 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. once a week meeting:

• The session begins with healthy snacks and social time.
• This is followed by presentations on a variety of topics centered around the next steps towards higher education.
• Students then work on their personal portals, which includes documenting next steps, financial considerations, scholarship opportunities, evaluating whether to pursue a university away from home or attend locally, etc.

Parents are also integral to the entire process and are fully involved. They take part in workshops centered around financial aid and career education.

The College Apps Academy is one of KidWorks’ two major growth strategies:

Key Growth Strategy: Strengthening College & Career Success

This growth strategy focuses on strengthening and expanding our college and career success programming—preparing more young people to become competent, confident, and career-ready adults.

Key enhancements include:

• Additional support for our Transfer Program, which assists students who begin at community college and later transfer to four-year universities;
• A more robust Mentor Program; and
• Expanded workforce readiness programming that equips students with practical skills and a strong work ethic valued by employers.

The other key growth strategy is expanding our network of spoke centers (there are now three in addition to our main Dan Donahue Center).

“What makes the KidWorks’ College Apps program so vital is that it changes the mindset of students who may never have considered a college or university in their future,” Clarisa says. “At the same time, KidWorks absolutely respects that college or a university might not be a fit for 100 percent of our students. Pursuing a trade, starting a business or serving in the military can be exactly the right choice for some.”

Please join us in celebrating the college seniors who this month completed their College Apps  Academy curriculum and are now enthusiastically anticipating their college/university experience.

By Glenn Leibowitz, volunteer writer

When you support KidWorks with a financial donation, you are directly helping to provide a path forward to an advanced degree for high school seniors. Please click this link for more ways to give.

If you are a parent or high school student interested in learning more about the College Apps Academy, please visit https://kidworksoc.org/college-career-success-initiatives/college-apps-academy/.

April marked the 19^th time KidWorks hosted high school students during our annual Campus Crash event. Campus Crash provides students with an in-person taste of college and university life, with the goal that they pursue higher education.

Campus Crash is part of our College & Career Programs, formally known as CCSI (College & Career Success Initiative). The initiative prepares first generation college students for higher education beyond high school and includes our College Apps Academy, Campus Crash, engagement with our college counselor, care packages for our college students and more.

From April 6 through April 10, 30 KidWorks high students and 25 KidWorks’ middle school students from all four of our locations and six from the Lighthouse Community Center experienced in-person visits to:

• California Baptist University
• California State University, Chico
• California State University, Monterey Bay
• California State University, Sacramento
• University of California, Davis
• West Coast University

Clarisa Vargas, our College & Career Director, says that experiencing campus life is what Campus Crash is all about.

“The students tour the campuses, meet with professors and other campus staff, explore the inside of a typical college dorm room, have lunch in the dining halls and sit in on lectures and labs,” she says.

“It makes the possibility of attending a college or university real to them in a way that only in-person visits can,” Clarisa adds.

Clarisa also thanked Leslie Martinez, our former College & Career Coordinator, who recently left KidWorks for another opportunity.

“Leslie made so many valuable contributions to the College Apps Academy and to Campus Crash and we wish her all the best,” Clarisa said.

Before leaving, Leslie expressed her joy in helping make Campus Crash such a success.

“The students we work with typically don’t travel nor go out of their hometown,” Leslie says. “Being able to give students an experience like a hotel stay or a trip on a charter bus is meaningful, even beyond the campus visit experiences.”

Leslie adds, “We also showed students that they don’t have to wait until they’re older to travel and see beyond their neighborhood. For example, we took them to the famous San Francisco pier and across the Golden Gate Bridge.”

Over the years, many KidWorks students have reported that Campus Crash was the key determining factor in deciding to definitely attend a college or university.

Here is what Shaila Jimenez, a high school senior enrolled in our programs since preschool, had to say about her 2026 Campus Crash experience:

“Being able to experience new campuses that were farther from home than I’ve ever been helped me get out of my bubble. Making memories with the KidWorks staff and other students was special before I embark on my next journey.”

Campus Crash was also meaningful for KidWorks’ staff who were present from start to finish during the various campus visits.

Here’s how Rachel Cervantes, our Volunteer Manager, puts it:

“This year’s Campus Crash was wonderful for so many reasons. Taking the youth on an extended Campus Crash had not been possible since before the COVID-19 pandemic. It was also great to be on a charter bus with the students There was plenty of laughing, snacking, sleeping and great conversations on the road between campuses.

“On a personal note, the students who attended this trip were my students in the after-school program in years past when I was a program assistant. Seeing how much they’ve grown and being able to partake in this special trip allows them the unique opportunity to see new places, ask questions and dream about their future; it’s such a blessing.”

“The Campus Crash overnight trips are a time to bond with the students on a deeper, more personal level outside of the classroom,” says Maria Ruvalcaba, our Youth Leadership Development Coordinator. “Genuine conversations take place about their hopes and goals for the future. We have the privilege of guiding them through these important life decisions.”

Maria adds, “As we experience new colleges and sightseeing areas together, it builds memories that we all hold dear to our hearts. That keeps us connected to the work we do and reminds us how important events like Campus Crash are.”

Isabel Rivas, KidWorks’ College & Career Associate, was also moved by the positive impact of this year’s Campus Crash event.

“Seeing the lessons and values we instill at KidWorks revealed on a larger scale, such as Campus Crash, is incredibly rewarding, especially as students begin to see themselves as part of something greater,” Isabel says.

She adds, “I’m mindful to remember that we are creating memories for students that they will carry with them for the rest of their lives.

“As an alumna who participated in the last Northern California Campus Crash trip in 2019, returning to this experience as a staff member brought back many of the same emotions and memories I once felt as a student. Witnessing those moments now through the students’ eyes reaffirmed the lasting impact of these experiences.”

Javier Oliver, Site Director for the Ignite Youth Leadership Program, longtime KidWorks’ partners, whose parent company is Unite Health Share Ministries (UHSM), says:

“It’s always a blessing to participate in Campus Crash with KidWorks. What made this year unique for me is that it’s the first time Campus Crash was extended to a three-day, two-night experience. The word ‘experience’ is perfect because it’s what our youth fully took part in.”

He adds, “The students were very engaged in the tours, always asking questions. I loved every minute spent building relationships with them.”

As expected, the details and coordination required to make Campus Crash a success are enormous. KidWorks thanks all those who made Campus Crash possible, including:

• Cory Alder, President of Nexus Development and former KidWorks’ Board Chair
• Darnell Lee, Coordinator, Black Students Resource Center at California State University, Chico
• Fast Deer bus charter
• Dale and Ann Fowler, who generously provide scholarships to KidWorks student attending California Baptist University
• JFK Transportation
• David Pyle, Chief Executive Officer of American Career College and Executive, Chairman of the Board of West Coast University, who supports KidWorks in countless ways, including providing a dental fair for our preschoolers.
• REACH Program/Jessica Dietrich, program coordinator
• The “Tribe Project” women from St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church of Newport Beach, who provided hygiene kits for students who participated in the overnight trips.
• West Coast University/Seram Lee

We also thank all the other supporters—out front and behind the scenes—who make Campus Crash an event our younger students hear about and look forward to with great anticipation.

By Glenn Leibowitz, volunteer writer

Events and programs like Campus Crash plant the seeds that lead to lasting academic and career success for our students. Your financial support and partnership with us make this possible. Find out more about how you can donate to programs like Campus Crash here: https://kidworksoc.org/donate/

Our highly motivated May 2025 KidWorks “Volunteer of the Month” launched her own company in July 2023: CodeLegacy (https://www.mycodelegacy.com), which she describes as “a site where people can book a software programming coaching session.” She donates proceeds to KidWorks.

Avnit also founded a club in high school named Girls Who Code. 

“The purpose of Girls Who Code is to spark girls’ interest in computer science,” Avnit said.

For the past two years she’s made Girls Who Code part of KidWorks University, volunteer-led workshops in areas such as careers, art, science, technology, cooking, writing and more.

Avnit has conducted Girls Who Code workshops for the past two years at KidWorks; both boys and girls can participate. Each session has welcomes up to 30 students. She’s also volunteered as a tutor for three years in our after-school programs.

“The workshops focus on game development, using Java Script and Python Programming,” Avnit says. “The students use coding and software to create their own games.”

“Avnit’s coding workshops introduce students to different types of careers and skills,” says Haide Gutierrez, Site Supervisor of our Townsend Street center. “In school, they hear about Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) and coding all the time, but it’s incredibly difficult for them to obtain in-depth experiences to the degree that Avnit offers our students.”

She adds, “I see firsthand how excited our students are to play the games they’ve personally coded. These experiences motivate our students to consider STEM-based careers.”

“Avnit has a unique ability to be fully present and warmly inviting whenever she’s volunteering,” says Rachel Cervantes, our Volunteer Manager. “Her heart is magnetic and so beautiful.”

Rachel, adds, “We appreciate Avnit’s generosity and willingness to give so freely of  her time, talents and treasures. She juggles her school and life so well and is super consistent in her volunteering.”

Rachel notes that Avnit has been a volunteer since 2022, with over 107 hours serving as a tutor in our after-school programs, assisting with food preparation, leading workshops, attending our community events and providing financial support.

Jason Cruz, our Volunteer Coordinator, says that Avnit’s workshops exceed all expectations.

“These workshops provide students with key skills that foster an ongoing interest in coding, computer science and engineering,” Jason says. 

“Just as valuable is the positive impact the workshops have in encouraging problem solving, logic, creativity and so much more,” he adds. “KidWorks strives to deliver content to our students that lead to college and meaningful career paths; Avnit helps us immensely by creating a bridge for our students toward the tech industry. Her club’s representation of women in technology truly inspires.”

Serving our students is a family affair for Avnit and her siblings.

Her brother, Amitoj Singh, was our February 2020 Volunteer of the Month. He is now a junior studying computer science and business at the University of California, Berkeley.

Her brother, Arjit Singh, was our July 2023 Volunteer of the Month. He is now a freshman studying neuroscience at Johns Hopkins University.

“My brothers inspired me to give KidWorks a try,” Avnit says. “KidWorks does an amazing job helping students through afterschool program and by providing them opportunities to explore their passion in science, math and computers. I wanted to be part of this journey and contribute.”

Avnit also knows that life extends beyond the computer screen.

“I have very fond memories of KidWorks’ summer field trips,” she says. “The students look at me as a big sister and asked help in getting anything from popcorn to cotton candy.”

In her spare time, Avnit enjoys playing the harmonium, an Indian piano, at her temple.

“I also have a passion for singing and participate in my high school choir and at a senior living home,” Avnit says.

Avnit has invested deeply in our students through her generosity and knowledge. The pursuit of her own academic and career success is equal to what she desires for our students and their own bright futures.

By Glenn Leibowitz, volunteer writer

Editor’s note: From their first day enrolled in our state-licensed preschool all the way through college/university graduation, KidWorks walks alongside our students to pave the way for meaningful careers. In our new series, “Positive Outcomes: College Graduate Career Success Stories,” we’ll introduce you to the career successes our graduates have now achieved. Our valued donors, sponsors, volunteers and supporters make this all possible. Thank you!

Eveline Esparza is on her way to fulfilling a dream to design prosthetics or heart pumps that save lives.

A KidWorks student from fourth grade through high school graduation, Eveline earned her Bachelor of Science degree in mechanical engineering from California State University, Fullerton, in 2024. She is now a computer-aided design (CAD) drafter at EKN Engineering in Irvine, a company focused on civil and utility engineering.

“I always enjoyed working with my hands and in a way that involved math, so this career path is ideal for me,” Eveline says.

Her work at EKN is very rewarding, Eveline says.

“I bring a fresh perspective as someone newer to the team,” she says. “I’m encouraged to suggest ideas for improvements while also learning from others. What’s especially fulfilling about being part of this company is the positive work environment and a team that is so supportive and helpful.”

Eveline is one of the hundreds of our students who have benefitted from KidWorks’ College & Career Success Initiative™ (C&CSI). The initiative prepares first generation college students for higher education beyond high school and includes our College Apps Academy (guidance for high school students on how to apply for grants and admission to colleges/universities), Campus Crash (visits by junior and high school students to colleges and universities), engagement with our college counselor, care packages for our college students and more.

“Being the first young man or woman in your family to attend a college or university can be a bit overwhelming,” says Clarisa Vargas, our College & Career Director. “But the soon-to-be high school graduates in KidWorks’ programs have the drive to pursue higher education—and KidWorks is right alongside them, from applying to the institution of their choice to earning a degree.”

Instilling confidence for success after high school graduation—at a college/university and then in a meaningful career—has long been a key initiative within KidWorks.

Eveline embodies this spirit when she describes herself as “fun, kind, adventurous and brave.”

From the start of her KidWorks experience in fourth grade, Eveline says KidWorks was right alongside every step of the way.

“Academically, KidWorks always provided help and resources to be able to succeed,” she says. 
“Socially, they helped me make friends that are still in my life years later.”

While from a young age she had a dream to attend college, Eveline says KidWorks offered the extra boost in helping to navigate the process once it was time to apply.

“KidWorks provided me with new opportunities and experiences that really shaped my life, from taking us on field trips during the summer that I would otherwise never experience to earning scholarships to help pay for the university,” she says.

Eveline adds, “I always knew a university was possible for me and KidWorks helped with the application process, college tours and financial aid,” she says.

Visiting campuses a part of our Campus Crash annual event also provided exposure to the higher education environment, including a trip to Northern California.

“We were even able to walk across the Golden Gate Bridge!” she says.

In addition to KidWorks, Eveline is also deeply grateful for the support of her parents, Jorge and Maria Esparza.

“They’ve always been my biggest supporters and have believed in me even when I didn’t,” Eveline says. “I would never have come this far without them.”

All of us at KidWorks are deeply proud of our alumni such as Eveline who serve as role models for our younger students and prove that meaningful careers can be part of everyone’s future.

Learn more about ways to support KidWorks students on their journey through higher education and onto meaning careers here.

By Glenn Leibowitz, volunteer writer

When she was five years old, Julie (Juliana) Villanueva first stepped into a KidWorks’ classroom as a preschool student.

Now a freshman business major at Orange Coast College, Julie overflows with gratitude and thanks for the journey she’s taken with us from childhood to young adulthood.

As we celebrate Thanksgiving this month, Julie perfectly exemplifies the true meaning of the holiday.

This is how she describes her KidWorks’ experience:

“I am incredibly thankful for KidWorks and all they have done for me and so many others. This program has been a life-changer, providing support, guidance and opportunities that have helped me grow both personally and academically.

“KidWorks provided me with tools to succeed and shown me that I have the power to make a positive difference in my community. I’m deeply grateful for the mentors, staff, volunteers and all the people behind the scenes who make this program possible.”

Recently, Julie shared her story with attendees at our October “Rosé on the Bay” fundraising event, an evening filled with food, wine and inspiration overlooking the scenic Newport Harbor.

She took the stage for an interview with Amanda Zimmerman, a commercial real estate development professional and Julie’s KidWorks’ mentor. Amanda was also our February 2023 “Volunteer of the Month.”

“KidWorks helped me with the opportunity to attend and graduate from Mater Dei High School, enroll in college, secure a scholarship and so much more,” Julie told attendees. “Never in my life could I have imagined dreams like this coming true for me.”

She added, “KidWorks taught me to overcome so many obstacles and to never give up, even when I didn’t believe in myself. I am forever grateful.”

Since 2022, Julie has been a dedicated volunteer during our after-school programs for both second and eighth graders.

“Julie gives our students so much to admire and look up to,” says Rachel Cervantes, KidWorks’ Volunteer Manager. “I’ve witnessed Julie’s growth over the years, having first met her when I was her fourth-grade teacher in our after-school program. The growth and maturity I see in her makes me confident that she will continue to succeed and strive for her dreams.”

“I help the students with homework, while being a positive influence and teaching good manners,” she says. “I also assist with administrative duties at the center. KidWorks has shown me the power of community and how one person can make a big difference in someone’s life.”

Anyone observing Julie can see how well she’s accepted and respected by our students as she volunteers in the second-grade classroom led by Fernando Estrada, a KidWorks program assistant.

Julie brings a mix of warmth and discipline that’s the result of her own time as a young student at KidWorks.

“I am able to look back to when I was a student and be more understanding of other students’ situations,” Julie says.

She adds, “Students are also able to feel more comfortable knowing that I was once in their shoes. It creates a bond of trust and understanding. They feel supported by someone who’s been there.”

Julie has big plans for her future as she considers the perfect career for her talents and interests.

“As of right now, I’m still trying to figure out exactly which career path I want to take,” she says. I plan to earn my real estate and notary licenses soon. I’m also considering attending law school after graduation.”

She adds, “Because of KidWorks, I’ve been able to dream bigger and work hard towards a brighter future.”

KidWorks is deeply grateful for Julie and the impactful ways she’s guiding our students on a path that’s just as inspiring as her own.

By Glenn Leibowitz, volunteer writer