Transforming Lives, One Step at a Time
Renato Jimenez, a sociology professor at East Los Angeles College (ELAC) and Cal State Fullerton, may humbly deflect the “hero” title, but his work speaks volumes. Through his unwavering dedication to students, he has created initiatives that provide tangible, meaningful support for those in need. Among his most impactful efforts is the ELAC Pop-Up Closet—a project that offers free clothing and resources to help students face life’s challenges with dignity and confidence.
From Immigrant Roots to Advocacy
Renato’s journey began thousands of miles away in Guatemala, where he was born before immigrating to the United States as a toddler. Growing up in Southern California, he lived the reality of a “1.5 generation immigrant,” navigating the delicate balance of his cultural heritage and new environment. After years of perseverance, Renato earned U.S. citizenship, an accomplishment that underscored his commitment to giving back to the community that shaped him.
For Renato, those formative experiences have instilled a deep understanding of his students’ struggles today. “I see my own story reflected in theirs,” he says. This shared connection fuels his mission to support them, whether through teaching or initiatives like the Pop-Up Closet.
An Idea Takes Shape
The Pop-Up Closet was born in 2019 from a study that exposed the stark realities of student life at ELAC, including homelessness, food insecurity, and financial hardships. Recognizing a resource gap, Renato and his Sociology Club set out to bridge it, starting with a simple yet powerful idea: providing free gently used clothing to needy students.
What began as a grassroots effort quickly gained traction. Renato’s office became a temporary storage hub, overflowing with faculty, staff, and community donations. Volunteers set up tables and canopies outside the E3 building each week, creating a welcoming space where students could find everything from professional attire for interviews to warm jackets for chilly days.
A Community Effort
The Pop-Up Closet has since grown into a vital resource, serving more than 3,000 students. It now offers clothing, toiletries, hygiene products, and an inclusive environment where students can feel supported. Renato lights up as he recalls teaching students how to tie neckties from a donated collection, a small but significant act that left them beaming with newfound confidence.
The initiative thrives on collaboration. Students like Christopher, a former Sociology Club president, helped transform the Pop-Up Closet into its own club, securing funding and expanding its reach. Meanwhile, Amanda, the director of ELAC’s Learning Center, has been instrumental in advocating for a permanent space and mentoring the next generation of student leaders.
A Legacy That Lives On
Although Renato has since transferred the leadership of the Pop-Up Closet to dedicated advocates like Amanda and Christopher, his vision and commitment continue to shape its success. By empowering others to take ownership, he has created a lasting legacy of service and community care. “The most fulfilling part has been watching students step up, lead, and support their peers,” Renato reflects. His ability to inspire collaboration ensures that the Pop-Up Closet remains a vital resource for ELAC students, proving that collective effort can spark meaningful change.
Building for the Future
Despite its success, the Pop-Up Closet still needs more permanent space and consistent funding. Renato and his team dream of a future where the closet becomes a permanent fixture at ELAC, offering expanded services like resume workshops and partnerships with local businesses to broaden its impact.
“The name ‘Pop-Up’ doesn’t do it justice anymore,” Renato says. “This is about creating something students can depend on—a resource that feels as permanent as the support they deserve.”
The Ripple Effect
Renato’s story is not just about solving immediate needs; it’s about creating a culture of empowerment. By fostering leadership, encouraging collaboration, and addressing systemic challenges, he has inspired students to see themselves as agents of change. “It’s amazing to see students own this initiative,” he says. “They’re not just helping others—they’re discovering their own strength in the process.”
For Renato, the most rewarding moments are the quiet triumphs: a student landing their first job, another finding a sense of belonging, and many more walking away with a little more confidence than when they arrived.
“This work is about so much more than clothing,” Renato reflects. “It’s about building community, breaking down barriers, and showing students they’re never alone.”
