Rev. Dr. O. Leon Wood Jr. and Paula E. Wood have spent more than three decades advancing equity, opportunity, and community well-being in Long Beach. Dr. Wood, former chaplain at Claremont Graduate University and founder of North Long Beach Community Prayer Center, has dedicated his work to education, ministry, and community leadership. Paula Wood brings more than 30 years of nonprofit experience with organizations including YWCA and United Way.
Together, they co-founded the CDF Freedom Schools® Long Beach site and served as partners with CDF Freedom Schools for 20 years, helping expand access to literacy, leadership development, and supportive community for local youth.