SCV Cares, a new website that aggregates community charities into one easy to use directory, demonstrates how one individual can make positive change.

David Perez, KHTS intern and assistant house manager at the Santa Clarita Performing Arts Center, launched the website Christmas Eve.

“Growing up, I was told Christmas is about giving, I don’t think I’ve ever given anything that’s completely selfless so I figured if I could come up with a couple bucks I could host a website showing all SCV charities,” Perez said.

Perez grew up in Pacoima and discovered his love of the arts and traveling through school field trips. Although his family couldn’t afford to take him to plays and help cultivate his love of theater growing up, he made it a priority as an adult and graduated Cal State University Northridge with a degree in theater.

“In the back of my mind I always wanted to start a nonprofit to help low income people get to the theater, I think that is something that should be open to everyone no matter the income level… and this (website) could help me network and get that project started,” Perez said.

In addition to showing charities in the SCV the website lists local events and asks community members to submit their favorite event or charity.

“I couldn’t find a database of all the (charity) websites so I thought I’d provide it,” Perez said. “It’s my first selfless gift, and it feels pretty good.”