Rising Stars: Meet Oscar Reyes of East Long Beach

Today we’d like to introduce you to Oscar Reyes.

Hi Oscar, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I was born and raised in Long Beach, California, one of seven children to two immigrant parents from Guadalajara, Mexico. I attended all Long Beach schools and grew up in some of the more underserved areas of our community. From a young age, I knew I wanted to grow up and help those in need. When you grow up in neighborhoods like that, you see things that stay with you—and it gives you a deep desire to make a difference.

My parents raised us with so much love and instilled in me strong values that I carry with me every day—chief among them, to give back and always lend a helping hand. My first job was in customer service, and from there I became a Legal Assistant to General Counsel, helping draft Right of Entry agreements for DIRECTV through a third-party provider in the multi-dwelling industry. At the time, I thought I might pursue a career in family, HR, or immigration law—something where I could advocate for people who needed a voice..

While pursuing my bachelor’s degree in Legal Studies in 2012, I was looking for a part-time job to help pay for school and came across a listing for a receptionist position at Assistance League of Long Beach. I had no idea that opportunity would open the door to discovering my true calling.

Over the past 12 years, I’ve grown from receptionist to now serving as the Director of Donor Relations and Development. I deeply believe in the mission of Assistance League of Long Beach and its 11 impactful programs—especially our signature program, Operation School Bell®, which provides free school uniforms, backpacks, and supplies to more than 12,000 Long Beach Unified School District students each year.

I still remember one of my first days helping with Operation School Bell—watching a student’s face light up when they received their new uniform. It reminded me so much of myself at that age, and I realized this was exactly where I was meant to be. Working my way up through the organization taught me that leadership isn’t about titles—it’s about service. Every role, from answering phones to leading development efforts, has helped me understand the heart of our mission.

To say my parents would have benefitted from a program like this when I was growing up is an understatement. I love the work I do because I know it’s directly helping families in our community—it fuels my heart and my soul. Seeing the gratitude in the faces of students and parents reminds me every day why I do what I do.

Looking ahead, I’m excited to continue building partnerships and expanding our impact. My dream is to ensure that every child in Long Beach has what they need to feel confident and supported at school. If I can change even one life in my lifetime, then I will have fulfilled my purpose—and that, to me, is the legacy I want to leave behind.

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It has not always been smooth sailing. As a teenager, I came to terms with being gay, and I was very afraid to come out because it wasn’t as accepted then as it is today. High school was difficult, and I struggled with depression during that time. I came out to my parents and family at 18, after graduating high school, and the love and acceptance I received was incredibly relieving and affirming.

My professional journey also had its challenges. During the recession in late 2008, I was laid off and faced several years without a job. It was a tough period, but it ultimately led me to Assistance League of Long Beach, where I found my calling and the opportunity to make a real difference in my community.

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I currently serve as the Director of Donor Relations and Development at Assistance League of Long Beach, where I help fund our eleven philanthropic programs that directly support our community. I raise funds through annual appeals, endowments, corporate partnerships, and grant writing, but what I love most is sharing the story of our work and connecting donors to the real impact they’re making.

What I’m most proud of isn’t just the fundraising numbers—it’s seeing the tangible difference we make in people’s lives. Programs like Operation School Bell® provide thousands of students with uniforms, backpacks, and supplies each year, while our Orthodontic Program helps children access life-changing dental care that they otherwise couldn’t afford. Knowing that I play a role in helping families feel supported and children feel confident is what truly fuels me.

What sets me apart is my belief that fundraising is more than just asking for money—it’s about creating connections, sharing the story of our impact, and inspiring others to join in making a difference. I’m also incredibly proud of our volunteers, whose dedication and passion make everything we do possible—they are truly the heart of Assistance League of Long Beach.

Can you talk to us about how you think about risk?
I don’t feel like I’ve taken any huge, dramatic risks in life, but I do believe strongly in standing up for what you believe in. You may not always be right, as much as I remind myself, but it’s important to speak up and let your voice be heard. That’s something I still work on, because it doesn’t always come easily to me.

I also think that, in a way, everything in life is a risk because you never know exactly where the road you’re on will take you. One of my favorite quotes is: “May we never lose the drive to pursue the things we love, no matter how bumpy the road is.” I feel like that’s so true—so many of us give up because we’re afraid of failure or we beat ourselves up over mistakes. But it’s in those bumps and challenges that we learn, grow, and truly appreciate the good things along the way.

For me, risk isn’t about dramatic leaps—it’s about showing up, speaking your truth, and continuing to move forward even when the outcome is uncertain. That mindset has guided me both personally and professionally, and it’s something I try to live by every day.

Pricing:

• – May donate to ALLB at www.ALLB.org

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.ALLB.org
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/assistanceleaguelongbeach/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/assistanceleaguelongbeach
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/assistance-league-of-long-beach
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/assistanceleaguelongbeach

Image Credits
Oscar Reyes, Ryan Giron, Daisy Ramirez