Our Story...
A true success story and beacon of hope for his community, Eddie Lopez was a charismatic honors student and star athlete who was well on his way to becoming the first in his family to attend college - but in 2006, Eddie was gunned-down by gang members in a case of mistaken identity.
Eddie grew up in a gang-stricken neighborhood with no father, little money, and a mother who worked two jobs just to make ends meet - but he had heart of gold, endless laughter, and dreams of a better life. This dedication, this tenacity, this resilience, is our story.
Inspired by the life of his friend, the Resilient Youth Foundation was created by a high school student with the goal of bringing equality, opportunity, and motivation to under-privileged and struggling students.
Today, the Resilient Youth Foundation has grown to become a leader in education reform and an example of efficient and effective charitable service. Our programs have been implemented in East Los Angeles, our documentary has been shown to professors at UCLA, our ideas have been conveyed to 80 million households on CNN, and our story has been told alongside the Dalai Lama at the Aspen Institute.
As we continue our fight, please take a moment to explore our site to learn more about our cause and work.
Thank you, and may life hold you kindly in its grace.
