Bob A. Paredes

Norwalk-La Mirada Adult School

Nominated in 2026

Bob A. Paredes’ story is a powerful testament to the life-changing impact of determination, faith, and education. After decades marked by poverty, trauma, addiction, and homelessness, Bob made a courageous decision to rewrite his future and become a source of hope for others.

Born in the San Fernando Valley in 1963, Bob faced hardship from an early age. When he was six years old, his father left the family, leaving his mother to raise four boys under extremely difficult circumstances. Despite growing up in poverty and often living in garages without basic utilities, Bob enjoyed school and performed well academically. However, the pressures of his environment and the trauma of being shot in a random drive-by incident at age 15 led him to lose focus on his education and eventually leave school.

For many years, Bob struggled with addiction, incarceration, and homelessness. Yet through every challenge, he never lost hope that life could be different. Six years ago, he made the life-changing decision to overcome addiction and has now maintained five years of sobriety. His faith became a guiding force as he began attending daily Mass at St. John of God Church in Norwalk and discovered a calling to serve others.

Inspired to pursue becoming a Deacon in the Catholic Church, Bob learned he needed to complete several important requirements, including earning a high school diploma. In 2024, after more than forty years away from the classroom, he enrolled at Norwalk-La Mirada Adult School.

Even while experiencing another period of homelessness and living in his car for seven months, Bob never wavered in his commitment to education. He approached every class with enthusiasm, gratitude, and determination. His positive attitude, encouragement of classmates, and willingness to help others made him a respected leader among his peers.

In December 2025, Bob completed all requirements for his high school diploma and graduated in June 2026. Today, he is pursuing the Catholic Church’s Diaconate Program, preparing for a future dedicated to service, compassion, and community leadership.

Bob’s remarkable journey proves that it is never too late to pursue a dream, overcome adversity, and create a future filled with purpose and hope.