THE GOOD WORD FOUNDATION
Vision
A thriving South Los Angeles where every resident has access to mental health support, freedom
from substance use struggles, and opportunities to build stable careers, businesses, and families.
Our Story
Since 2016, The Good Word Foundation has been serving South Los Angeles through programs that combine healing, resilience, and opportunity. What began with youth programs and summer community events has grown into a multi-faceted nonprofit reaching 300-500 residents each month.
Our Mission
Our mission is to strengthen community well-being by addressing mental health, preventing substance use, and expanding opportunities through workforce readiness, entrepreneurship, and trade skills development.
Programs
1
Mental Health & Resilience
Weekly peer groups and monthly clinician-led sessions help participants manage stress, anxiety, and recovery from trauma.
We focus on building coping skills, reducing stigma, and preventing substance use through community-based support.
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80% of participants report improved coping and emotional stability.
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3
VR + AI Innovation
Immersive sessions using Meta Quest Pro headsets and AI-driven coaching to reduce anxiety,
practice mindfulness, simulate job interviews and mental health and substance abuse treatment workshops.
How to use Chat GTP to help with life and workflow.
Increased confidence, improved job performance, reduced stress.
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4
Youth Development
Signature “Parks Tour” with anti-violence and leadership workshops, mentoring, and college
prep.
Annual Save A Child Camping Trip
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Get Outside The Box
Exploring other cultures, to increase cross-culture understanding.
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30+ alumni in college or employed; 0% gang involvement among original cohort.
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5
Community Outreach
Food distributions, chef-led nutrition classes, hygiene kits, and help with basic household items.
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Gather information from our participants to figure out what is most needed and when, to provide relevant and timely support
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Increased nutrition knowledge and family stability.
Our programs connect healing and opportunity. We combine mental health support and substance use prevention with workforce pathways, entrepreneurship training, and trade skills development to strengthen the well-being of South Los Angeles.
“I learned to manage stress and landed my first job interview — this program changed my life.”
— J., Participant
Our Impact in the South Los Angeles Community
300+
900+
80%
60%
residents served monthly
reached via annual
Parks Tour events
Received employments or launched a business
improved coping mechanisms and wellbeing
Patrick Santos, CEO
Degrees in psychology, American studies, business, and math/science. Over 15 years of nonprofit leadership, including roles with federally recognized programs such as AVP (Alternatives to Violence Program) and GOGI (Getting Out by Going In). Experienced program director and trainer in addiction recovery groups (AA, NA, CGA).
Leadership
Gregg Herman Jackson, Secretary
Community organizer with over 10 years of nonprofit experience. Currently manages housing programs at PATH and trains staff to support residents transitioning out of homelessness. A trusted connector between The Good Word Foundation and the wider housing support network.
Jose Gaitan, CFO
Entrepreneur and small business owner specializing in marketing, photography, video, and social media. Brings expertise in financial oversight, compliance, and brand communication. Dedicated family man with a strong commitment to community service.
Contact
Mailing: 1820 W Florence Ave., Suite 318, Los Angeles, CA 90047 Physical:
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(714)684-1685