Jared Pacheco

Santa Ana
10th grade student at Valley High School

How did you become involved with KidWorks?

I joined KidWorks in 4th grade. Now as a high school student I serve on KidWorks Youth Leadership Team, provide clerical support to the volunteer department and tutor 3rd and 5th grade students. Last year I volunteered over 100 hours at KidWorks (but who’s counting?).

Share the most meaningful experiences you’ve had at KidWorks? What made them impactful to you?

Volunteering at KidWorks has helped me become a leader. Serving on the Youth Leadership Team has helped me to stand up and speak for myself and to interact with all types of people. Attending Campus Crash is also helping me mentally prepare for life in college.

Can you talk about some of the biggest obstacles KidWorks' programming overcame when you were involved?

I want more people to get involved with KidWorks. We need help spreading the word so more students can participate.

What does KidWorks mean to you? Looking back, how did KW help to shape your life? How did KW help to influence the person you are today

Kidworks is all about people - I met so many friends and mentors that have influenced me and I’m grateful for all of the amazing opportunities I’ve been given.

What are your dreams for KidWorks over the next 10, 20, or 30 years?

I hope to see more students at KidWorks and more centers across Santa Ana.

Anything else you would like to share about KidWorks?

Without KidWorks I wouldn't have become the person I am today.