Student Mentor Lennox Middle School

My name is Gabriel Carrillo and I am a student mentor for Southern California Crossroads. I became a mentor by transferring over from another program with Crossroads and little did I know I would enjoy doing this even better than what I did before which I also enjoyed! I got started in this field of work because I wanted to originally work with at risk youth, more precisely youth that are involved with gangs or headed down that path. I was involved with a gang myself and went through some traumatic life events but have overcame many obstacles that where in front of me and now want to give back by sharing my experiences and consequences with these same students that may have a similar upbringing as my own and we can relate with one another and I can encourage them that change is possible and that lifestyle isn’t the only option they have. I am truly blessed and fortunate to work for a great organization that gives me this opportunity that I have.

Student Mentor Lennox Middle School

My name is Claudia Barrera. I earned my Bachelor’s Degree in Sociology from California State University, Dominguez Hills. I became a mentor with Crossroads in March 2023. The reason why I wanted to be a student mentor is because I know a lot of children in the community don’t have a positive role model in their life who they can look up to and trust. I embody an empathetic, non-judgement, and trustworthy stance with the goal of creating a safe and supportive environment to explore new insights, strengths, and areas of growth. My mission is to provide an environment where students feel safe to process thoughts, feelings, and feel heard. When I start seeing improvement with the students such as: academically, personal goals, better relationships, etc.. that’s when I get rewarded and that’s what I absolutely love the most about my position. I highly believe every client has the ability to be successful in life.

Student Mentor Lennox Elementary Schools

My name is Juana Escobedo. I was born in Durango, México and moved to Los Angeles thirty three years ago with my children. I have dedicated my life to helping others. I graduated from Cal State Dominguez Hills in 2017 and received my B.S. in Healthcare Management. For the past 4 years I have been working at Socalcrossroads, initially as youth gang prevention and currently as student mentor serving four schools. My mission statement is “Help people in the communities we serve, empowering them to help themselves.

Student Mentor Lennox Elementary Schools

My name is Demondre Brooks. I have worked with kids since I was 17 years old, I started with the Los Angeles Department of Parks & Recs. I grew up in South Central Los Angeles and growing up black, without a father and not have the proper guidance and having all the odds against me. Every time I walked down the street I was stereotyped as gang affiliated. I've had a few mentors in my life, and I am grateful for them because without them I would not be where I am today. I have a passion for mentoring and coaching students , I am a big believer in consistency when mentoring students. I want to be the same force that drives youth to reaching their full potential, just like I had growing up.on goes here