“I have the privilege of accompanying students in a high challenge, yet high support context, and to watch them become more resilient, self-confident, empathetic, and gain greater social and emotional capacity…"

“I’ve always loved fixing things. Sometimes I fix people’s phones or computers and don’t charge them, this stuff is fun for me. Of course I need to make money and pay my bills, but I’m doing work I really enjoy and that’s a great thing.” —Tiger, owner of California Computer

“…there is no greater joy for me than watching another person conquer exactly what they believed impossible!” Intern and running coach, Destenie Reyes, shares her experience working with City Heights youth.

My name is Destenie, but I prefer Des.

I was born in Orange, California, and raised in Tijuana/San Diego. I was a 4th grader when my family moved to Tijuana following my stepdad’s deportation, a move that impacted the core of who I am today.

Michael’s love for community is infectious, his passion for a deeper understanding of those things that help hold us together is inspiring, but it’s his open-hearted kindness that most inspires.

Why do people help others?

It’s a simple question without a simple answer. Some help because it feels good, some because it’s their job, and others because they simply care about their neighborhood and want to make it better. Rickie Brown helps her neighbors for all those reasons, no doubt, but the strongest motivation by far is…

“I remember life in the refugee camp, after we finally made it to Thailand,” Maly recalled. “I was so young when we escaped. A lot of people died and it was all so horrible, but I do remember a few things from that time…”

Hey all, my name is Tom Bui and I work in City Heights, one of San Diego’s most culturally diverse neighborhoods. In fact, at least 30 languages and dialects are spoken, and those are just the ones we know!

“I think people of color often get stuck on this idea that they shouldn’t ask for help,” Cierra began. As an eviction prevention outreach manager, Cierra is on the frontlines of the housing crisis…

He climbed out of the engine and made direct eye contact: "People may take off. They're confusing. Life is hard sometimes, easy others. But cars just always made sense. Fixing things makes sense, ya know?"

When asked about his favorite moments here in the community, he said “When we first arrive. The people are so happy to see us, and we all know each other. If people need to talk or laugh or cry or something, we can do that. We make time.”

“Food is about belonging and identity, and places like this offer that security and sense of place. It’s why we love City Heights. It feels like home.”

Around City Heights, we talk a lot about slowing gentrification, but taking a few minutes to just lament and grieve the pain it causes is also important.

Jim Bleisner is a City Heights CDC founder, activist, mixed-media artist, and passionate neighbor with extensive history in the City Heights community.

Dr. Stanley Rodriguez recently stopped by New Roots Community Farm to gift the gardeners with native plants!

This young musician reached out asking if he could donate a portion of his music proceeds toward our work in the community, then he generously offered to share some of his own story of growing up in City Heights!

Meet Tom, a local who loves the City Heights community! In the middle of learning a new job, Tom graciously sat down to share a little about himself and why he’s excited to join the team…

Today, Peaches Turner reminded me that serving in the community doesn’t have to be complicated. She works for a nonprofit and is technically paid to help folks, but her help goes way beyond that…

“I’m eager to be part of the policy and advocacy work in the community,” Dahir shared. “What will City Heights be like 10 years from now? How can we prepare for that? What is our plan and vision for the community? What kind of community do we want to live in in the next decade?”

A lot changed during the pandemic. The world has changed, and so has our team. We’re thrilled to introduce you to several new board members, starting with Antonio Figueroa!