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In their Own Voices
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Gilbert Sepulveda
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Youth Transformation Program Coordinator, Project Kinship
Gilbert Sepulveda draws from his lived experience of nearly 20 years of incarceration to mentor young people and facilitate restorative justice circles. A first-generation son of immigrant parents, he understands how trauma, disconnection, and difficult circumstances can shape a young person’s path. Today, he helps youth impacted by gangs, violence, and the justice system build trust, make healthier choices, and find healing through connection, accountability, and care.
Francisco Frias
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Supervising Probation Correctional Officer (SPCO), Orange County Probation Department
SPCO Francisco Frias oversees fellow officers who supervise youth and implements personalized treatment plans for younger justice-involved individuals. As a former probation youth himself, he knows firsthand the power of being seen not just for past mistakes, but for future potential. Guided by his own journey of resilience, service, and second chances, he now helps young people navigate accountability, build confidence, and move toward a better path.
Uyen (Wynn) Nguyen, ASW, MSW, CADC II
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Youth Transformation Program Clinician, Project Kinship
Wynn provides rehabilitative care to justice-involved youth transitioning from incarceration, delivering intensive case management and mental health services, specializing in risk assessment, short-term counseling, and ongoing treatment planning, especially for those previously engaged in gang-related activities. Drawing from her own lived experience with incarceration, addiction, and recovery, she brings deep empathy and credibility to her work. Passionate about the role of education in transformation, Wynn is committed to helping young people heal from trauma, pursue new opportunities, and successfully reintegrate into their communities.
Colleen Byrne
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Deputy Probation Correctional Officer (Ret.)
After losing her son Garrett to a fentanyl overdose in 2019, Colleen channeled that loss into helping youth find hope, opportunity, and a path forward through education and mentorship. Over nearly three decades working with youth in the Orange County Probation Department, Colleen helped create educational opportunities for justice-involved young people through the College Occupational Program (COP). Through COP, these youth can enroll in community college courses to work towards earning their degree.
Jesus Garcia
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Substance Use Disorder (SUD) Counselor, Project Kinship
Just months after completing the program as a participant himself, Jesus Garcia returned to Project Kinship this time as a counselor. Today, he supports justice-involved individuals navigating substance use and recovery, offering relapse prevention planning, one-on-one counseling, and ongoing guidance at every stage of their journey. Drawing from his own lived experience with incarceration and recovery, Jesus approaches his work with empathy, authenticity, and a deep commitment to meeting people where they are — never with judgment, but always with the intent to serve.
