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, drawing, 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.
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

DIA DEl NIÑO

Date: April 2026.

BRIGHT Youth is hosting a Dia Del Niño event, in collaboration with some of our community leaders!

Every April 30th, Mexico throws a party for its kids.

El Día del Niño is a full-on national celebration that shows you exactly what Mexico values: family, childhood, and the pure joy of being young. In Mexican culture, children aren't just the future—they're the heart of right now.

Join us for a day of piñatas, table games, live music, food trucks, and more!

join us