Our Story

The Santa Cruz County Youth Resource Bank (YRB) was born from a simple but powerful act of compassion.

In 1984, the Honorable Judge Thomas Black was presiding in juvenile court when a young minor appeared before him, covering his mouth as he spoke. Judge Black repeatedly asked the youth to lower his hand. When he finally did, he revealed severely crooked teeth and serious dental problems. Embarrassed, the young man began to cry.

Recognizing that punishment alone would not change this child’s future, Judge Black turned to Lynn C. Miller, then Juvenile Director of Probation, and asked what could be done to help. Together, they reached out to a local dentist and orthodontist who generously agreed to donate the necessary treatment.

That moment marked the beginning of the Youth Resource Bank.

A Sustainable Volunteer Model

As the founders—including Judge Black and Mr. Miller—expanded their efforts, they observed that similar programs in neighboring counties struggled to survive. Many depended heavily on government funding and lost valuable resources to administrative overhead and staffing costs.

Determined to build a sustainable solution, YRB was established as an all-volunteer organization. In 1989, it was formally incorporated as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation.

This lean, community-driven model has proven highly successful. For decades, the Youth Resource Bank has continued to serve thousands of children and families in need throughout Santa Cruz County.

Expanding Impact: Tattoo Removal Program

Youth Resource Bank also played a key role in launching the Santa Cruz County tattoo removal program.

Partnering with Dominican Hospital and Dr. Morgan Magid, YRB provided laser tattoo removal services for young men and women seeking a fresh start—many of whom wanted to remove tattoos associated with past gang involvement.

Participants could receive treatment in exchange for volunteer service hours or through a sliding-scale payment system, reinforcing accountability and community engagement.

Today, the Diocese of Monterey continues this important work, helping individuals move forward with dignity and renewed opportunity.