Meet The Founder/CEO

My name is Jason Patterson and I am the CEO/Administrator of Brownstone Mentoring. I created Brownstone Mentoring Services because of my experience growing up. I realized that you can have a house full of people and still not seek them out for guidance. As I was growing up, I was very smart and respectful in all aspects. However, my biggest challenge was being well known for fighting in school. The reason I fought so much was because that was the only time the spotlight of attention was on me. I was in need desperate need of guidance. All of this lead me into the world of boxing. Boxing changed my life in ways I could have never imagined. I learned how to channel my frustrations and anxiety through boxing principals and concepts. As I grew up I was lead into a path of various careers from being a director of mental health programs to being a principal for public, private, and charter schools. My maturity and level of growth has helped me with opening up two boxing gyms and creating Brownstone Mentoring. This program aims to provide a variety of helpful services to people that may have challenges with expressing themselves or navigating through a difficult time in life. Brownstone mentoring helps promote personal growth, and well being, it empowers the youth to overcome obstacles and make positive changes, while also providing the support and guidance to individuals in need.

  • 323-363-1716

    brownstonementoring@gmail.com

Meet the Team

  • Jaco Arvizu

    Marketing/Social Media Manager

    10 years of experience with social media, podcasting, and photography

  • Boxing Coach - Coach Josh

    Over 17 years experience in the sport of boxing. Former pro fighter with an education background in mental health.

  • Leon Taylor

    Behavioral Boxing Coordinator- Leon Taylor

    My name is Leon Taylor and I am originally from West Palm Beach, Florida. I moved to California three years ago after securing my degree in computer science. I went on to acquire my certified personal trainer license for my love of health, wellness, and fitness. I enjoy working out, teaching others about the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and reading. I believe that we all have a story to share and we are more common than we think we are and by mentoring I give others options to share their stories and relate to them.

  • Nataniela Diaz

    Tutor - Nataniela Diaz

    Hi! My name is Nataniela Diaz, I’ve aspired to work with children and significantly help them improve their personal growth. I’ve worked with children countless of times when I started community service alongside my peers at a young age. Which has encouraged me to be a voice for those who can’t speak, and those families in need. I have dedicated my career path to create an environment where everyone can feel secure enough to openly express themselves. I’ve had experience mentoring and counseling students dealing with harsh situations and special needs. I would like to empower young minds, helping them build confidence. resilience, and essential life skills. My approach is deeply rooted in empathy, creativity, and understanding child development which ensures everyone I work with feels safe, seen, heard, and valued. 

  • Remy Arias

    Restorative Justice & At Risk Coordinator - Remy Arias

    My name is Remy I was formally impacted by the justice system as youth and adult, I was exposed to drugs, violence and gangs at young age and got stuck in the the lifestyle for a long time, now I dedicate my life helping others to progress and better themselves, I like to give back to the community and change lives one day at a time, I'm a father and want to be a positive role model for not only my children but those children in need of a figure in their lives, I want to break down barriers in the community and be a change agent to those at risk

  • Joshua Salazar

    LGBTQIA Director - Joshua Salazar

    Joshua Salazar (he/him) is an Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion professional based in the Inland Empire and currently serves as the Pride Center Coordinator at Cal Poly Pomona. With a passion for creating inclusive spaces, Josh focuses on supporting 2SLGBTQIA+ students and fostering a sense of belonging through education, mentorship, and increasing visibility. With a Master’s in Educational Counseling from the University of La Verne, he brings a wealth of experience in student development, social justice advocacy, and mental wellness.

  • Leah Mercado

    Mental Health Director - Dr. Leah Mercado

    Dr. Leah Mercado brings over 13 years of dedicated experience to the mental health field, having served as director of multiple youth and adult mental health programs. With a Master’s degree in Psychology and a PhD in Behavioral Science and Medicine, Dr. Mercado combines academic excellence with hands-on leadership to create meaningful impact in mental health care delivery. Her extensive background in program direction has equipped her with a deep understanding of both the clinical and administrative aspects of mental health services, allowing her to bridge the gap between evidence-based practices and real-world implementation. Throughout her career, Dr. Mercado has demonstrated a commitment to improving mental health outcomes across diverse populations and age groups

  •  Christina De La Cruz

    Women's Services - Christina De La Cruz

    Christina De La Cruz is a passionate K–12 Mild/Moderate Education Specialist with over 10 years of experience supporting diverse, at-risk, and special needs students in San Bernardino County. Her mission is to empower youth through inclusive education that nurtures academic achievement, emotional resilience, and behavioral growth.

    With a B.A. in Human Development, a Teaching Credential in Mild/Moderate Special Education, and an M.A. in Education: Teaching and Learning from Azusa Pacific University, Christina blends deep expertise with heartfelt dedication. She has served as an Onboarding Coach, Teacher Mentor, and Master Teacher, helping fellow educators grow and thrive in their roles.

    Christina is actively involved in educational communities focused on improving student outcomes and fostering collaboration among teachers. She’s currently pursuing certification as a Certified Wellness Coach, expanding her impact to support holistic well-being in and beyond the classroom.

    Outside of education, Christina finds joy in fitness and martial arts — disciplines that reflect her commitment to strength, balance, and lifelong learning.

  • Mentor - Josh Gutierrez

    I am Joshua Gutierrez. Head Boxing Coach at Fist of Gold Boxing Gym. I have been boxing for 9 years, and I can genuinely say this sport has changed my life. This sport has shown me discipline, respect, and self-confidence. I went as far as being an amateur boxer, never a pro, but I have tons of sparring experience with both pros/amateurs. Due to an injury in 2024, I had to stop fighting and focus solely on coaching. I have been coaching kids for about 2 years now. My mission as a coach is not only to coach, but to mentor these kids. Guide them. They don’t have to be a product of their environment. There is peace in this violence called “boxing”. I want to be able to change kids lives, inspire them, to believe they can be much more. Pne punch at a time.