Inspiring Resilience: A Youth Mental Health Event Featuring NBA Champion Lamar Odom
On a rainy afternoon at Chaffey High School’s Gardiner Spring Auditorium, hundreds of high school students from across the Chaffey Joint Union High School District (CJUHSD) were greeted with a surprise they’ll never forget — two-time NBA Champion, Sixth Man of the Year, FIBA Gold Medalist, and reality TV star Lamar Odom sitting front and center to welcome them with high-fives and smiles.
The event, titled “Looking Ahead: Motivation and Resilience,” was part of a district-wide Youth Mental Health initiative designed to foster hope, healing, and inspiration among students. Lunch for the 150 attendees — representing nine CJUHSD high schools — was provided by Top Notch Staffing & Catering, Inc., Aileen’s family business, before they gathered in the auditorium for the main program.
CJUHSD Assistant Superintendent Dr. Kern Oduro opened the event with enthusiasm, followed by Superintendent Mathew Holton, who recognized key partners and elected officials for making the day possible, including:
Congresswoman Norma Torres (CA-35)
Rancho Cucamonga Councilman Ryan A. Hutchison
CA Senator Rosilicie Ochoa-Bogh’s Field Representative Michael Glausner
San Bernardino County Supervisor Jesse Armendarez’s Field Representative Priscilla Bugayong
CJUHSD School Board President Gil Zendejas
Board Clerk Sue Ovitt
Trustee Donald English
When Odom took the stage, he shared a powerful personal story of perseverance and loss. “My father chose to get high as opposed to raising his family,” Odom recalled. “Then, when I was 12, my mother succumbed to colon cancer. It was just me, my grandmother, and basketball — with the dream of making it to the NBA.”
Odom spoke candidly about the importance of education and resilience, urging students to take school seriously and value the opportunities before them. When asked about his favorite teammate, Odom’s answer came without hesitation: “Kobe Bryant.” The audience erupted in cheers. Around his neck hung a chain featuring Kobe and Gigi Bryant, a reminder of the deep friendship between the two athletes.
Students later learned that Bryant had once described Odom in The Mamba Mentality: How I Play as the “ultimate teammate” — charismatic, unselfish, and community-driven. For many in the audience, it was the first time seeing that spirit of mentorship and compassion brought to life in person.
The event was capped off with giveaways of basketballs, courtesy of Pepper PR Agency Inc. and Wilson, along with goodie bags donated by generous sponsors. Students lined up to meet Odom, take photos, and share their gratitude. Social media quickly lit up with posts like, “I’m glad you came to my school, Lamar!” — many of which Odom personally reposted on his Instagram account.
This unforgettable event was made possible through the collaboration of numerous partners, including:
The Education Foundation for the Schools of Chaffey District, San Bernardino County Department of Behavioral Health, San Bernardino County Children and Family Services, CJUHSD, San Bernardino County Superintendent of Schools, the City of Rancho Cucamonga, Inland Empire Health Plan, Inland Empire Community Foundation, Top Notch Staffing Inc., Doing Good Works, Wilson, Pepper PR Agency Inc., Haven Cosmetic Dentistry & Implant Center, and Cubrix Photography (Madeline Arenas).
Aileen’s Proven Track Record
Aileen’s work on this event exemplifies her ability to bring together schools, public agencies, and private partners to champion student wellness and mental health. Her leadership helped create a powerful space for students to hear messages of hope, perseverance, and community — demonstrating her ongoing commitment to supporting youth beyond the classroom and into lifelong success.
