Our Team
Adventures to Dreams wouldn't be possible without our amazing team!
Sheila Grantham
Founder, Director
In 2015, Ms. Sheila G. completed her last round of chemotherapy while teaching in the Imperial Courts, a public housing project in Watts, California. One of her preschool children spoke to her about the dangers of living in the projects. He was not allowed to go outside on weekends due to violence and drug-abuse in his neighborhood. This inspired Sheila to found Adventures to Dreams Enrichment and empower marginalized youth by engaging them in hands-on enrichment. Sheila is a two-time cancer survivor with over 20 years of experience in education. Over the course of her career, she has been an early childhood educator, and preschool owner and director. Her mission is to positively impact children through AtDE, by providing gardening, science, and art activities in a safe, fun learning environment.
“I truly believe that youth need to be enriched through education, cultural diversity and mentorship experiences. These are essential to their growth, development and reaching their full potential in life. Adventures to Dreams makes a positive difference in the lives of the youth we serve!”
Motto:
“When you listen, you learn!”
Christian Solorzano
Photographer
Christian Solorzano is a California State University, Long Beach student, expecting to graduate 2021. Being a major in photography, he enjoys photographing the world every day and viewing things through different perspectives. Mistakes are his treasure because he believes process is more important than outcome.
“Adventures to Dreams has helped me grow both socially and systematically. This program is extraordinary in a way that allows children ages 4-13 to touch upon things that will never be taught in school settings and in turn flourish their curiosities. From gardening to cooking, to science experiments and other mind-enriching activities; I am glad to be a part of this fast-growing organization and overall in pleasure to be framing unique moments during our adventures.”
Vivianna Goh
Assistant Director
Vivianna Goh is a Social Ecology PhD student at University of California, Irvine, and plans to pursue a career in public policy and urban planning. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Dietetics and Food Administration from CSULB. Vivianna helps direct volunteers, organize activities, and assist Ms. Sheila in program operations.
“The kids love growing and eating their own food, interacting with each other, and learning about art and science. Adventures to Dreams encourages everyone to dream big, even the families and volunteers! I love this program because everyone involved gets to learn from each other.”
LT (La Tisha) Clayton
Program Assistant
L.T. is Sheila’s daughter. She is a Content Creator specializing in producing promotional videos, documentaries and project management for clients worldwide. She has a Sociology degree from Sacramento State University and a Film Production degree from Sacramento City College. As a result of her Mom’s positive influence – strong emphasis on education, exposure to diverse cultures and travel throughout childhood – she has a deep appreciation for learning, has traveled to various parts of the world and loves connecting with people from diverse backgrounds.
“My Mom has been a firm education advocate all my life. She believes it is the only way an individual stands a chance at reaching their potential. She also believes in exposing children to different cultures and environments so they can develop a well rounded view of our world and not be limited by a single view or experience – this is exactly her aim in developing Adventures to Dreams. My Mom is amazing! I am thankful for her love and sacrifice in raising me! She is a blessing in the life of everyone exposed to her good will.”
Giesi (Jesse) Lopez
Garden Lead, Administrative Assistant
Giesi (pronounced Jesse) Lopez graduated from the University of California Irvine in 2022 with a BA in Political Science and a minor in Education. Giesi is the Garden Lead and Administrative Assistant at Adventures to Dreams Enrichment.
“Adventures to Dreams not only provides the youth an opportunity to interact in an outdoor setting, but they also learn more about the ways in which their food grows. This teaches them to reduce their waste and be mindful of their environment. Being able to work so closely with the community has been a great opportunity and I am so grateful to be here.”
Carlos Velazquez
Youth Education Intern
Carlos Velazquez is a Psychology student at California State University, Long Beach. Carlos is the youth education intern that is in charge of leading activities with the kids and fostering an inclusive environment at the garden.
“Children are the future of this country, and Adventures to Dreams paves the way for nutritional and educational equality. It is an honor to be able to work with the kids and being able to provide them a sustainable source of produce as well as being able to teach them about science and gardening.”
Isabelle Monterroso
Food Sustainability Intern
Isabelle Monterroso is in her second year of University at California State University, Long Beach. As a criminology major, she plans to pursue a career in Legal Studies and learn more about community interactions.
“Having a similar outlet to Adventures to Dreams growing up helped me understand more about environmental sustainability. Which is why I think it is a wonderful opportunity for kids to come in and learn about harvesting food whilst also enriching their minds with various activities.”
Gregoria (Ria) Aquino
Community Outreach & Marketing Intern
Gregoria Aquino is a California State University Student majoring in Health Science with a focus on Community Health Education. She hopes to one day give back to her community and improve the quality of life of individuals in underserved communities.
“It's an honor to be part of the Adventures to Dreams team. I am looking forward to the great memories I will make with the team and the kids."