In September 2011, The Leaven opened its Southern California division with the launching of its tutoring center in Rialto, located in San Bernardino County. The Leaven at Quail Ridge in Rialto provides daily after-school tutoring, Monday through Thursday, to students living in the Beechwood apartment neighborhoods of Rialto.

Strong support from the local church community and the City of Rialto has been critical to the launching of The Leaven’s new site.

As a lawyer, Judge Pro Tem in San Bernardino, Riverside and Los Angeles Counties, and former City of Rialto Prosecutor, I know the importance of giving children positive role models and one-on-one support as early as possible. The Leaven gives boys and girls an alternative to gangs and drugs by helping them learn so they can succeed in school. . .  The Leaven has a track record of bringing change and hope to communities—and I’m excited to support their expansion to Southern California.

—Edward Palmer, Attorney
City of Rialto Council Member

Additionally, we are introducing our Harvest Society to the region, inviting people to sponsor a Leaven child for $25 a month.

The Leaven at Quail Ridge is the fifth tutoring center operated by The Leaven, and the first one in Southern California. Our remarkable growth has been a result of strong support from the community and an enthusiastic welcome from parents who want their children to succeed in life.

To volunteer with The Leaven at Quail Ridge, please click here.

Meet our Southern California team!

Pamela Barden, Operations Director

Pamela comes to The Leaven from a career working in the nonprofit sector. Most recently, she has been helping nonprofits, including The Leaven, improve their funding base. Pamela is a member of Pomona First Baptist Church in Pomona, CA.

Joshua Ortega, Site Director

Josh is a seasoned youth worker with a degree in Youth Ministry from Life Pacific College and a Master’s degree from Azusa Pacific University. A native of Southern California, Josh has been active in youth programs most of his life, and teaches student leadership to teenagers.