Our story
Building Futures Since 1980
For over four decades, Operation New Hope has been a lifeline for underserved youth in San Bernardino County — connecting young people to education, employment, and the support they need to thrive.
Our Mission
Operation New Hope's mission is to provide underserved youth with the tools, training, and support they need to become productive, self-sufficient members of their community. We believe every young person deserves a chance to succeed — regardless of their background or circumstances.
Our Vision
A San Bernardino County where every young person has access to meaningful opportunities, and where the cycle of poverty and incarceration is broken through education, employment, and community connection.
Our Core Values
Hope
We believe in the potential of every young person, no matter where they start.
Empowerment
We give youth the tools, skills, and confidence to take charge of their futures.
Community
We build strong partnerships with local organizations, employers, and families.
Integrity
We operate with transparency, accountability, and a deep respect for those we serve.
Our History
Operation New Hope was founded in 1980 by Bill Degnan, a passionate advocate for youth in the California Youth Authority (CYA). What began as a small community effort has grown into a comprehensive workforce and life skills organization serving thousands of young people each year.
1980
Founded by Bill Degnan at the CA Youth Authority's El Paso de Robles facility. Bill introduced ORGO — a 6-foot green mascot and drug/alcohol awareness character — to connect with youth in a way no adult could.
1997
Russell Degnan joins as a group counselor, beginning a lifelong commitment to the mission.
2010
Russell Degnan assumes the role of Executive Director, expanding programs and partnerships.
2010
Collaboration to create two Youth Opportunity Centers providing life skill resources across the county.
2020
Expanded virtual programming to continue serving youth during the COVID-19 pandemic.
2025
Over 3,135 students served, 411 diplomas earned, and 83% employment or higher education placement.
Archive — 1980s
Meet ORGO: Where It All Began
Long before Operation New Hope became the organization it is today, founder Bill Degnan had a bold idea: reach young people where adults couldn't. In 1980, working with wards and counselors at the California Youth Authority's El Paso de Robles facility, Bill helped bring to life a 6-foot, shaggy green character named ORGO — an acronym for Operating Responsibly, Given Opportunity.
Built with help from Universal Studios and creative counselors, ORGO became a television and newspaper sensation. Ward Richard Morales wore the costume on ORGO's first public appearance at a local junior high school — and the students were immediately captivated. ORGO's trademark line, "Don't mess with alcohol and drugs… and be good," became a rallying cry for a generation of young people across California. The program attracted Hollywood film crews and national media attention.
ORGO wasn't just a mascot — he was proof of a philosophy that still drives Operation New Hope today: kids reach kids. People who have lived through struggle can connect with youth in ways that no textbook or lecture ever could.
"Adults don't reach kids… Kids reach kids."
— Bill Degnan, Founder of Operation New Hope
Meet Our Team
Our dedicated professionals bring passion, expertise, and lived experience to everything we do.
Our Coaches
Direct service providers are the heartbeat of our mission.
"We are only as strong as those providing direct services to our students and families."
— Operation New Hope
Coach Fabiola Ibarra
Case Manager / CHW
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Coach George Rounds
Case Manager
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Coach Khalilah Sharif
Probation Case Manager
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Coach Monique Hernandez
Case Manager
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Coach Paul Espinosa
Youth Case Manager
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Coach Justis Medina
Fiscal — Accounts Payable
Coach Jocelyn Mendoza-Soltero
Case Manager / YAB President
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Coach Maria Arzola
Case Manager
Coach Rayme Quezada
Case Manager
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Coach Tony Urbina
Reentry Case Manager
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Coach Mario Jacobs
Program Manager — Youth Diversion
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Coach Melody Ridoloso
Program Manager — Youth Workforce
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Coach Charles Short
Program Manager — Adult Reentry
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Coach Stachia Drain
Program Manager — Cal AIM / ECM
Read bioBoard of Directors
Our volunteer board brings decades of expertise in business, education, law, and community service — providing strategic guidance and governance to advance our mission.
Join Us in Making a Difference
Whether you volunteer, donate, or partner with us — your support changes lives in the Inland Empire.