This is a dream become reality for Oscar Rodriguez , a former gang member . He now runs a non-profit agency providing safe spaces for young people in some of Fresno ’ s poorest neighborhoods .

Rodriguez opened Webster Park in 2023 up the street from Webster Elementary School , where he attended third through sixth grade . He works closely with Webster Principal Denise Romero to know how to best support the neighborhood students .

“ I ’ m trying to make a difference so some of these kids don ’ t have the barriers I had ,” Rodriguez said .

Rodriguez turned to gangs when he was young , seeking love and friendships . His parents both worked from early in the morning to 6 p . m ., leaving him with lots of time on his own . He did not finish high school .

In 2007 , he was approached by Hope Now for Youth , an organization based in downtown Fresno that seeks to pull young men out of the gang lifestyle by connecting them with jobs . Rodriguez got a custodial job at Riverpark Bible Church , and then at First Presbyterian Church .

While working at First Presbyterian Church , he became a Christian . Through the church , he became friends with Joanie and Marty Martin , whose Lowell neighborhood home and large lot was known as Martin Park , a safe gathering place for neighborhood children .

When the Martins were preparing to move , they asked Rodriguez to take over Martin Park . In 2016 , Martin Park became a non-profit offering after-school tutoring , arts and crafts , and other activities for children . Rodriguez is executive director of Martin Park , which now has eight employees . They are seeking to establish a downtown center for sixth through eighth graders .

Rodriguez is also one of the founders of Next Door Ministries , which operates a housing facility for men recovering from addiction . Although he did not finish traditional school , Rodriguez takes online classes on leadership and business .

As for Webster Park , the neighborhood has embraced the space , although many did not think it would come to fruition .

“ We told the neighbors we were going to be building a park and they said , ‘ No you ’ re not ,’” Rodriguez said .

It was built without a parking lot , intended to be a park that neighborhood children and families walk to . The park offers a food giveaway weekly in partnership with food agencies , along with lots of after-school and weekend activities for young people . They also provide necessities like hygiene kits .

“ Who wants to be the smelly kid ?” Rodriguez said .

Romero , the principal at Webster Elementary , said the park has provided the community with a sense of pride .

“ It is an amazing feeling when our community invests in us . It is a place that Fresno can be very proud of . We are truly blessed to have Oscar Rodriguez ' s vision , talents , and love for the Webster community ," Romero said .

Rodriguez said one of the primary goals is encouraging students to attend school every day , and to provide interactions with caring adults .

“ I try to teach that everyone has opportunities . You just have to take them ,” he said .