Founder

I come from a family rooted deeply in the story of this land. On my mother’s side, I carry the legacy of the Daughters of the American Revolution. On my father’s side, I am Mexican-American — my ancestors lived here long before the border shifted, long before Manifest Destiny claimed that only one kind of people belonged.

History matters. The U.S. pushed into Mexico all the way to Mexico City during the war — but stopped short of annexing everything. Why? Because there were “too many brown people.” California was wanted for gold. New Mexico was added last, still landlocked, because the population was too Mexican. That history lives on in the inequities our communities face today.

So when I say Rebuilding Lives, I mean reclaiming dignity, connection, and justice that has been denied for generations. My work is about trauma-informed healing, social-emotional resilience, and building community spaces where people don’t just survive — they thrive.

Technical Director

Tonya Kubo is the Technical Director for the Rebuilding Lives Initiative, where she ensures the digital and operational systems behind our training programs run smoothly. With more than 20 years of experience in marketing, operations, and community engagement, she specializes in using technology to expand access and streamline support. Find out more at tonyakubo.com.

Item descriHi, my name is Reverend Ginger Criswell Osby, and I’m the founder of Hands Up Outreach Center. This is not just my job — it’s my calling.

I am an ordained minister, an alcohol and drug specialist, and a longtime homeless advocate for our city of Merced, California. I’m a mother of two, a grandmother of two, and I’m currently earning my B.A. in Criminal Justice.

I’ve been working with our unhoused neighbors for over 40 years and have personally experienced homelessness off and on for about 25 years. I know firsthand how hard it is when the money you earn isn’t enough — when waitlists for help stretch for two years or more, even if you qualify. It’s frustrating and disheartening.

That’s why our Outreach Center helps anyone willing and able to work while they wait for permanent housing. We focus on restoring dignity and keeping our community clean and cared for.

Hands Up Outreach Center is about hope, action, and accountability — helping people rebuild their lives with respect and purpose.