KidWorks unleashes youth potential by developing the next generation of life-ready learners who are leaders.

KidWorks was founded in 1993 by Larry Acosta, a youth pastor, and his wife, Jayme, a school teacher. It began as summer Bible clubs and mentoring groups in under-served neighborhoods of Santa Ana. In 1996, our first community center opened in a tiny, one-room apartment on Townsend Street as a safe haven for children and youth.

Since 1993, KidWorks has grown into a vibrant community development non-profit with a presence in several neighborhoods of central Santa Ana. We serve youth and families through a licensed preschool, after-school programs, tutoring, mentoring, college and career readiness, family services, and leadership development.