Upside Academy Inc
#CommunityStrong
Programs and results
What we aim to solve
The government can not single-handedly find remedey in curing the disparities in our society. It must be a joint effort with the nonprofit sector and members of the community. Each of us can make a difference in a small way, in our own sphere, and can find ways to help that will make our efforts worth the time and trouble we invest in them.
Our programs
What are the organization's current programs, how do they measure success, and who do the programs serve?
Youth Activities and Enrichment Program (YAEP)
Upside Academy, Inc. offers support, education and enrichment activities designed to help youth build a sense of community, build skills and relationships through stewardship. Our activities are presented in a fun and safe environment with plenty of hands-on involvement. From setting up at events, concessions, customer, hospitality, social etiquette, cooking, agriculture, community projects and more.
Upside Academy, Inc. provides our youth with valuable employability skills through their volunteerism. These “real-world” job skills are transferable into the workforce. Our students are provided with the necessary coaching and supervision in these jobs, so that success guaranteed.
College Scholarship Assistance Program
Upside Academy, Inc. provides guidance and support services for youth pursuing higher education. We will empower youth to graduate high school, attend and graduate college, and achieve their goals. We will assist with the application process, cover college application fees and book supplies for those low-income youth.
Christmas in the Hood - Free Community Event
This program has provides resources to hundreds of low-income families living primarily in east Bakersfield yearly. Families in attendance are provided with resources such as warm clothing, food, books, educational supplies, toys and bikes while enjoying in the Christmas festivities. This program has cumulatively served over 2,500 families over the last 6 years.
Thanksgiving Turkey Giveaway
This program partners with Wing Stops of Bakersfield and Fatburger of Bakersfield to provide over 500 hundred turkey and food baskets to low-income families and individuals. This program has served over 1,700 families in over 4 years.
Pop Up Food Drive
Upside Academy's Free Food Distribution Program distributes extra fruits, produce and food to hungry neighbors in need. Our food comes from the from The Emergency Food Assistance Program, administered by the USDA and distributed to qualified local agencies through Community Action Partnership of Kern.
Where we work
External reviews

Our Sustainable Development Goals
Learn more about Sustainable Development Goals.
Financials
Unlock nonprofit financial insights that will help you make more informed decisions. Try our monthly plan today.
- Analyze a variety of pre-calculated financial metrics
- Access beautifully interactive analysis and comparison tools
- Compare nonprofit financials to similar organizations
Want to see how you can enhance your nonprofit research and unlock more insights?
Learn more
about GuideStar Pro.
Operations
The people, governance practices, and partners that make the organization tick.
Connect with nonprofit leaders
SubscribeBuild relationships with key people who manage and lead nonprofit organizations with GuideStar Pro. Try a low commitment monthly plan today.
- Analyze a variety of pre-calculated financial metrics
- Access beautifully interactive analysis and comparison tools
- Compare nonprofit financials to similar organizations
Want to see how you can enhance your nonprofit research and unlock more insights? Learn More about GuideStar Pro.
Connect with nonprofit leaders
SubscribeBuild relationships with key people who manage and lead nonprofit organizations with GuideStar Pro. Try a low commitment monthly plan today.
- Analyze a variety of pre-calculated financial metrics
- Access beautifully interactive analysis and comparison tools
- Compare nonprofit financials to similar organizations
Want to see how you can enhance your nonprofit research and unlock more insights? Learn More about GuideStar Pro.
Upside Academy Inc
Board of directorsas of 10/24/2022
NaTesha Johnson
Upside Productions
Term: 2017 -
Mr. James Burton
James Burton Farmers Insurance
Term: 2018 -
Brenda Duenas
County of Kern
Tanae McCall
CSUB
Karla Wong
County of Kern
Gilbert LaRoque
Fox Theater Foundation
Marcus Johnson
Starstruck Entertainment
Michael Bowers
Centric Healthcare Serivces
LaCresha Lebron
Kern Regional Center