Who We Are
About East Side
Of The River
Mission Statement
Our mission is to create pathways for healing in our communities through art and culture—rooted in empowerment, education, and respect. East Side of the River brings this work to life through public murals, multidisciplinary arts programming, environmental justice, Indigenous cultural practices, and the mentorship of emerging community leaders.
East Side of the River is a community-rooted nonprofit using the power of art to transform lives, reclaim public spaces, and build a more just and beautiful Los Angeles.
20+
Years Strong
Our Story
Born on the East Side
East Side Of The River was born in 2003 from a simple belief: that the communities east of the LA River — long overlooked, underinvested, and underrepresented — deserved to see themselves reflected in the walls of their own neighborhoods.
A small group of artists and organizers from East LA, SELA, and the SGV came together with paint, ladders, and a vision. That first mural sparked something. Neighbors stopped to watch. Kids asked to help. Elders shared stories that became the art.
Decades later, we've grown into a full-service arts nonprofit — but our roots haven't moved. Officially incorporated as a 501c3 nonprofit organization in 2023. We are still East LA, through and through.
Our Mission
Art as a Tool for Justice
To empower BIPOC youth and families in underserved Los Angeles communities through murals, mentorship, art workshops, and community engagement — using creativity as a catalyst for healing, pride, and lasting change.
Our Vision
A City That Sees Itself
A Los Angeles where every neighborhood — regardless of zip code — is filled with beauty, opportunity, and the voices of the people who live there. Where young people of color see themselves as artists, leaders, and changemakers.
What Guides Us
Our Values
Community First
Every decision we make starts with one question: does this serve our community? We are accountable to the people we work with, not to funders or institutions.
BIPOC Leadership
Our staff, board, and artists reflect the communities we serve. We believe those closest to the challenges are closest to the solutions.
Art as Power
We treat art not as decoration but as a tool for healing, resistance, and transformation. A mural is a statement. A workshop is an act of liberation.
Radical Accessibility
No one should be turned away because of cost, language, or background. Our programs are free, bilingual, and designed to meet people where they are.
Our Journey
10 Years of Impact
Founded by a group of East LA artists and community organizers with a single mural and a vision.
Launched the Youth Mentorship program, serving our first cohort of 30 young artists.
Opened our first community studio space, offering free weekly workshops to the public.
Reached 1,000 youth served and completed our 50th community mural across 10 neighborhoods.
Officially incorporated as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.
Celebrating 10 years of impact — 2,400+ youth served, 87 murals, and a growing movement.
The People Behind the Work
Our Team
Arturo Gonzalez
Executive Director
Born and raised in East LA/SGV, Arturo has spent over 2 decades mentoring youth, beautifying walls and transforming public space in the most underserved neighborhoods of LA.
Cassandra Ocampo
Deputy Director
Serving her community for over a decade, Cassandra began as a volunteer and has established her vital role as program manager and outreach coordinator.
Christopher Aloy Arredondo
Art Director
A community leader and street artist since the 90s, Chris has mentored countless youth as a well known graffiti artist and artist from the SGV.
Jose Romero
Project Manager
Joe has been an integral part of ESR project management and capacity development. His experience growing up on the Eastside and spending years in the field of industrial psychology has complimented his passion for helping his community.
Leadership
Board of Directors
Laura Cortez
Board Member
Carlos Goytia
Board Member
Alexandria Ocampo
Board Member
Arturo Gonzalez
Board Member
Christopher Arredondo
Board Member
Join Our Community
Whether you want to volunteer, donate, or simply learn more — we'd love to connect with you.