It all started with a simple haircut. Early in 2022, Our founder Eric walked inside a barbershop one day, and by divine appointment, was sat on his barber Charlie’s chair for the first time. Eric quickly learned that Charlie grew up in the Shalimar neighborhood, across the street from where Eric lived, in the Westside of Costa Mesa.

After learning that Charlie wanted to give back to his community with free haircuts, Eric quickly took the initiative to connect with an old mentor, who connected him with a City Council Member of Costa Mesa.

The conversation grew into a partnership with the City, and quickly became an annual Back To School event that got the attention of local nonprofits, businesses, churches, and volunteers.

Today, BRIGHT Youth, through its community events and strong partnerships, has since donated thousands of backpacks, thousands of toys, thousands of haircuts, hundreds of skateboards, and other powerful resources distributed throughout the community.

Our Story

our mission

BRIGHT Youth empowers the youth and families of Orange County by providing creative, educational, and community-based resources that inspire hope and personal growth. Through strong partnerships and culturally rooted relationships, we bridge gaps between residents, nonprofits, and the City to foster expression, resilience, and opportunity.

Currently serving the Shalimar neighborhood in Costa Mesa and other Westside neighborhoods.

IT ALL STARTED WITH SAYING YES TO

GIVING BACK TO THE CITY THAT RAISED US.

our philosophy

collaboration

We work hand-in-hand with nonprofits, schools, and civic partners to bridge resources and amplify impact.

Community Trust

We honor the relationships and voices of youth in Orange County, starting in the Shalimar neighborhood in Costa Mesa by listening first, protecting their privacy, and serving with cultural humility.

Equity

We are committed to ensuring fair and inclusive access to resources, opportunities, and decision-making for all members of our community.

Empowerment

We create opportunities for youth and parents to discover their strengths, express themselves, and take an active role in shaping their future.

Creativity

We believe self-expression through art, storytelling, and innovation is a vital tool for healing, learning, and transformation.

our awesome sponsors

A combination of local government, nonprofits, churches, local businesses, and artists who have worked with us and have been a part of our community efforts over the years.

Meet the Crew

  • Eric Jimenez

    EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR & FOUNDER

    A lifelong resident of Costa Mesa for over 25 years, Eric brings a deep understanding of the community he serves.

    Known for his patience and ability to truly listen, Eric creates spaces where marginalized and at-promise youth feel seen, heard, and valued.

    With a creative background in painting, photography, and marketing, combined with a passion for psychology and literature, he approaches youth development with both artistic vision and genuine curiosity about what makes people thrive.

  • Cristian Garcia Arcos

    COMMUNITY CONNECTOR

    Cristian Garcia Arcos is a dedicated community leader from Shalimar, one of the very neighborhoods our organization serves.

    But what truly sets him apart is his love for people. Known for his warm, approachable nature and strong leadership, Cristian builds authentic relationships that strengthen the fabric of our community.

    Driven by a passion for service, Cristian connects our nonprofit with volunteers, donors, and community members who share our vision of empowering at-promise youth.

  • Reina Cuthill

    CITY CATALYST

    Reina utilizes her experience and connections with various cities, communities, and nonprofits to foster collaboration among churches, city government, local businesses, nonprofits, and community leaders.

    Her passion for bringing people together has driven city-wide movements since 2021 and will continue to do so.

  • Bianka Mathus

    ADMINISTRATIVE AND PROGRAM BUILDING CONSULTANT

    Bianka consults with us on program development, organizational strategy, and leadership connections.

    As local outreach lead for Calvary Chapel Costa Mesa, she brings relational depth, sharp organizational instincts, and a heart for kids to everything she does.

    Bianka has been pivotal in helping us clarify who we are and how we move — and her presence makes us stronger for it.

  • Lambert Higuera

    COMMUNITY ADVOCATE & YOUTH ADVISOR

    Lambert Higuera is a UCI graduate with a double major in Philosophy and Cognitive Psychology, and a proud product of the Shalimar neighborhood.

    Growing up surrounded by the realities of gang violence, Lambert developed a nuanced understanding of the forces that shape young lives in marginalized communities.

    A passionate advocate for education and critical thinking, Lambert is committed to research, scholarly inquiry, and reading as tools for transformation—both personal and communal.

  • Brian garrido

    MUSIC & ENTREPRENEUR MENTOR

    Brian Garrido, professionally known as Dao Poeta, is an artist and lifelong resident of Costa mesa who grew up in the Shalimar neighborhood.

    Deeply rooted in his community, Dao Poeta uses music as both an art form and a tool for empowerment.

    He is a passionate advocate for the Shalimar community, dedicating his time to mentoring youth through music education that goes beyond sound—incorporating lessons in business, branding, and self-expression.

upcoming

Events

Día del Niño (Children's Day) is celebrated annually on April 30th in Mexico to honor children, recognize their importance to society, and promote their well-being and rights. Established in 1925, this festive day features school parties, gifts, special treats, and family activities, emphasizing love, joy, and the celebration of childhood.

If you would like to volunteer, please don’t hesitate let us know that you’re down to join us!

join us

Contact Us

Interested in partnering with us, volunteering at our next event, or have any questions? Hit us up! We will get back to you as soon as we can.