Kimberly's Story

Once upon a time, Kimberly's journey began at KidWorks Preschool, marking the start of an extraordinary chapter in her life. Thriving alongside her peers, she created lasting memories and deep connections with the staff. Kimberly embraced various life-changing experiences, such as joining the Youth Leadership Team, participating in College and Career classes to discover her major, and conquering her fear of heights at Yosemite Sierra Summer Camp. KidWorks became her sanctuary—a place filled with happiness, care, and respect for the past 14 years.

August 2023 ‘Volunteer of the Month’:  Stephan “Buddy” Joe

On a recent Monday in late June, nearly 100 students in grades kindergarten through fifth gathered during our 2023 summer program at the Dan Donahue Center to sing a worship song titled “Fruit of the Spirit.” Volunteer Stephan “Buddy” Joe joined in with just as much enthusiasm as those raising their voices in praise.

30 Faces of KidWorks - Monica Mendoza

We often say that supporters are the lifeblood of KidWorks. Monica Mendoza is a perfect example. She’s walked alongside us and those we serve since 2006. Monica’s been a mentor to our youth, a classroom volunteer and overall supporter. A number of churches over the years have partnered with KidWorks; their members often grow deep connections with us. Monica’s journey with KidWorks began that way through RockHarbor Church in Costa Mesa. Monica has worked alongside many of our legacy leaders over the years. She’s also seen us grow in impact, the size of the population we serve and in the number of centers we’ve established. As a 17-year volunteer, Monica’s been with us for over half of our history so far.

30 Faces of KidWorks - Ava Steaffans

As KidWorks’ former President and Chief Executive Officer, Ava Steaffens was one of the most influential leaders of KidWorks during her tenure of August 1999 through March 2015. This legacy leader is now Strategic Partnerships Director for California at World Relief. “In the summer of 1999, I got a call from Larry Acosta, asking if I’d take a job as office manager in the small office from which he operated the Hispanic Ministry Association,” Ava says. “At the time, I was still a practicing lawyer, but I knew God was calling me to do something different, like a global mission. In 2002, KidWorks spun off as a separate, non-profit community development corporation. At the time, I never dreamed that KidWorks would provide so much redemption to so many lives. The impact has been astronomical in so many lives, including my own. It shows that God is faithful; God cares for all of us.”

30 Faces - Glenn Leibowitz

Glenn Leibowitz first volunteered at KidWorks in late 2005. “KidWorks has never wavered from their focus on Christ, academics, leadership, well-being and meaningful careers for their students over the nearly 18 years since I first walked through the door at the Dan Donahue Center,” Glenn says. A professional writer for over 50 years, he’s been honored to work on hundreds of stories and communications projects since then.

30 Faces - Rachid Chamtieh

When he was honored as our March 2022 “Volunteer of the Month,” Rachid Chamtieh said: “I’m a big believer in the notion that the course of our lives is largely impacted by life opportunities, those that come naturally and those that are presented to us by people who go the extra mile.” Going the extra mile truly defines the leadership and commitment Rachid has provided to KidWorks for nearly 15 years. With exceptional and gifted leaders like Rachid serving on our Advisory Council, we believe anything is possible for KidWorks and the thousands of students and families we serve.

30 Faces of KidWorks - Antonienta Pintor

The KidWorks’ Parent Advisory Council is a remarkable group of moms and dads who’ve done so much to bring others to our centers, improve the community and support those we serve in numerous ways. Antonienta Pintor is a longtime member of the council—and one its most dedicated and effective members. She’s been an engaged parent with KidWorks for many years and has seen her children benefit from our programs. Antonienta, like so many parents of students enrolled in our programs, believes that doing her part to support KidWorks is not an obligation, but a joy.

Enrique: A KidWorks success story

When now 19-year-old Enrique Vega was about to graduate from high school in Spring 2022, he was carefully considering three potential career paths: forensic scientist, history teacher or bioengineer.

But there was a problem. Enrique realized he didn’t have a true passion for any of them. Enrique’s real longing was for a career in culinary arts.

30 Faces of KidWorks - Melissa Ley Marshall

Melissa Ley Marshall is one of KidWorks’ most steadfast supporters and volunteers. She was honored as our March 2018 “Volunteer of the Month.” Melissa co-leads our Young Professionals for KidWorks. She’s a First Vice President at CBRE in Newport Beach and brings her leadership skills and management experience to every aspect of her engagement with KidWorks.

30 Faces of KidWorks - Michelle Martinez

Like so many of our students, Michelle first enrolled in KidWorks as a child in our state-licensed preschool. She’s now a high school senior. Michele will soon join the ranks of hundreds of KidWorks alumni who have found a safe, welcoming and inspiring second home each time they pushed open the doors at one of our three centers. Michelle is now looking forward to college, followed by a meaningful career. The little girl who first started her academic career in our preschool is now a young adult. We are very honored to be part of her journey.

30 Faces of KidWorks - Gabi & Omar Cova

Gabi and Omar Cova are a true love story—not only because they met and married while at KidWorks but also for their love of KidWorks since our early beginnings. Both served for a number of years as KidWorks team members, positively influencing the lives of hundreds of students. They have also served on Christian missions outside of the United States, bringing their love of Christ and His children.