Changemakers LA
By LISC LA
Changemakers LAMay 11, 2023
Making Diversion Programs Work for the People
In this episode of Changemakers LA, LISC LA Program Officer Erica Webster delves into the topic of diversion programs. These programs aim to prevent or minimize an individual's involvement with law enforcement or the criminal justice system by providing services such as mental health and substance abuse treatment or housing support. This discussion explores these programs from the viewpoint of participants and social service providers. Additionally, our guests will share insights on the key factors that contribute to the success of diversion programs.
Joining LISC LA for this conversation is:
Tanu Ah You, Case Manager At Transformational Living Homes, Founder of ALOFA
Pat Seller, Co-Founder of ALOFA
In this episode, Tanu Ah You shares his inspiring journey to sobriety, reflecting the challenges, victories, and the powerful impact of his experiences with diversion programs and substance use treatment. Throughout his path, he found unwavering support from his friend, Pat, who also joins us on the panel. Pat describes her role as a friend and advocate for Tanu, highlighting how she navigated the delicate balance of holding him accountable while remaining realistic and providing unconditional support. Her perspective offers valuable insights for those supporting loved ones on their sobriety journey.
Our panel consists of two remarkable individuals:
Tanu Ah You serves as a Case Manager at Transformational Living Homes, a reputable sober living and recovery program based in Long Beach. Additionally, he is a Founding Board member at Project ALOFA (Another Loving Opportunity For All), a dedicated organization that advocates for Asian and Pacific Islanders experiencing incarceration and reentry. Tanu's personal experience within the criminal legal system further fuels his passion for helping others, as he currently participates in a diversion program. He believes that his firsthand encounters enable him to form deeper connections with the clients he serves.
Pat Sellers, a close friend of Tanu and Co-founder of ALOFA, has been a community organizer for many years. Over a decade ago, Pat crossed paths with Tanu, and their friendship flourished. When Tanu approached Pat with the idea of launching Project LOAFA, she eagerly embraced the opportunity to make a difference alongside him.
Together, Tanu and Pat bring a wealth of experience and perspectives to our discussion, shedding light on the triumphs and challenges of navigating sobriety, personal growth, and the vital role of support systems in recovery.
If you would like to learn more about how we support place-based initiatives for housing, economic development, and alternatives to incarceration at LISC LA, please visit us online at www.lisc.org/los-angeles and follow us on twitter @LISC_LA.
You can find the rest of the series on iTunes, Spotify, and Google Podcasts. Subscribe to hear more conversations about the people and places that shape Los Angeles.
This podcast was produced in collaboration with Ronnell Hampton, Founder of Growing Greatness Now. Growing Greatness Now is a consulting firm committed to social and environmental justice.
Addressing the Equity Gap Through Public Policy
This episode of Changemakers LA is hosted by Alexandra Dawson, Director of Lending + Investments at the Local Initiatives Support Corporation’s Los Angeles office. Alexandra talks to our guests about how they are addressing the equity gap through public policy efforts. Our guests leverage public policy to address many regional issues, including affordable and fair housing, homelessness, and criminal justice.
Joining LISC LA for this conversation is:
- Konstantin Hatcher, Senior Director of Community Impact at California YIMBY
- Maria Casillas, Founder & Executive Leader of Pride In Truth
- Alan Greenlee, Executive Director of the Southern California Association of Non-Profit Housing (SCANPH)
Maria Casillas begins this episode by addressing the power in her experience as a formerly incarcerated mother. The challenges Maria faced were a big inspiration driving her passion for helping others. She talks about some of the root causes of the criminal justice system and its disparate impact on some communities. Community leaders like Maria were instrumental in achieving the Measure J funding outcomes.
Alan Greenlee discusses the power of coalition building in achieving the Measure ULA funding. He discussed the five components of coalitions and described the importance of generating resources sufficient to produce significant amounts of affordable housing.
Konstantin Hatcher discusses why it's essential to get people housed and build an environment that creates financial opportunities for those on the front lines and the most affected by the housing crisis. Finally, Konstantin explains how AB 2873 starts providing incentives for affordable housing builders that can diversify the pipeline of the folks they contract with.
About our panel:
Konstantin Hatcher is the Senior Director of Community Impact at California YIMBY. California YIMBY’s mission is to make California an affordable place to live, work, and raise a family. Their goal is to put California on a path of broad-based economic prosperity, creating vibrant, livable, and inclusive communities for everyone.
Maria Casillas is the Founder & Executive Leader of Pride In Truth, guiding the organization's strategy to center those most impacted by unjust systems. With a background as a formerly incarcerated, first-generation immigrant and single mother, Maria brings a unique perspective to the role. She serves on the Board of the Youth Justice Coalition and advocates for the rights of youth, incarcerated individuals, and undocumented people.
Alan Greenlee, is the Executive Director of the Southern California Association of Non-Profit Housing (SCANPH), where he has served since 2012. With 25 years of experience, he has a strong commitment to helping low-income families, and he has designed and managed programs nationwide, impacting hundreds of thousands of families. His extensive experience allows him to bring innovation to the fight against poverty.
If you would like to learn more about how we support place-based initiatives for housing, economic development, and alternatives to incarceration at LISC LA, please visit us online at www.lisc.org/los-angeles and follow us on twitter @LISC_LA.
You can find the rest of the series on iTunes, Spotify, and Google Podcasts. Subscribe to hear more conversations about the people and places that shape Los Angeles.
This podcast was produced in collaboration with Ronnell Hampton, Founder of Growing Greatness Now. Growing Greatness Now is a consulting firm committed to social and environmental justice.
Changemakers LA Podcast: A Care First Justice System
This episode of Changemakers LA is hosted by Program Officer Wendy Gomez who oversees LISC LA’s Alternatives to Incarceration Incubation Academy. The Incubation Academy is a capacity building program for grassroots organizations serving the reentry population across LA County. Wendy talks to a graduate of the Incubation Academy about why community-based services are so critical in reentry and reimaging a justice system that is focused on care first.
Joining LISC LA for this conversation is:
- Danielle Lafayette, Executive Director of Unite a Nation, Alternatives to Incarceration Incubation Academy Graduate
If you're interested in the justice system and how it impacts individuals and communities, this episode of the Changemakers LA Podcast is a must-listen. Host Wendy Gomez speaks with Danielle Lafayette, the founder and Executive Director of Unite a Nation, a community-based organization providing housing, economic stability, and restorative justice services to formerly incarcerated individuals. The conversation explores why a care-first approach is crucial in the reimagination of the justice system, and how community-based services such as housing, economic stability, mental health, and peer support can facilitate healing and build stronger, safer communities. This episode offers insights and personal experiences that shed light on the complex challenges and opportunities facing the reentry population and the importance of community-centered solutions.
About our guest:
Danielle Lafayette is the founder and Executive Director of Unite a Nation, providing housing, economic stability, and wraparound services to formerly incarcerated individuals and youth development programs. She is justice-impacted and a strong advocate, having witnessed close family members impacted by the criminal injustice system.
If you would like to learn more about how we support place-based initiatives for housing, economic development, and alternatives to incarceration at LISC LA, please visit us online at www.lisc.org/los-angeles and follow us on twitter @LISC_LA.
You can find the rest of the series on iTunes, Spotify, and Google Podcasts. Subscribe to hear more conversations about the people and places that shape Los Angeles.
This podcast was produced in collaboration with Ronnell Hampton, Founder of Growing Greatness Now. Growing Greatness Now is a consulting firm committed to social and environmental justice.
Digital Literacy is A Just Recovery
Senior Program Officer Shona Sen hosts this Changemakers LA podcast episode, covering the support Angelenos need in accessing digital literacy and upskilling opportunities through LISC's Financial Opportunity Centers® (FOCs). LISC's FOCs are community partners that provide employment and career counseling, one-on-one financial coaching, low-cost financial products, and income support counseling free of cost to their neighborhoods and communities.
Joining LISC LA for this conversation are:
● Susy Contreras, Community Development Program Director of the Mexican American Opportunity Foundation (MAOF)
● Dawn Comer, Director of Technology Inclusion for the City of Los Angeles Mayor's Office of Budget and Innovation
● Sandra Bonneville, Financial Empowerment Program Manager for Central City Neighborhood Partners (CCNP)
See full show notes for this episode at https://www.lisc.org/los-angeles/regional-stories/changemakers-la-podcast-financial-literacy-just-recovery/
This episode of Changemakers LA was made possible by Mastercard Impact Fund, with support from the Mastercard Center for Inclusive Growth.
If you want to learn more about how we support place-based initiatives for housing and economic development at LISC LA, please visit us online at https://www.lisc.org/los-angeles and follow us on Facebook @LISCLosAngeles.
Upward Mobility for the Reentry Population
Senior Program Officers Shona Sen and Stephen Salazar Ceasar host this Changemakers LA podcast episode covering organizations helping formerly incarcerated Angelenos navigate life after incarceration with support to find public services and pathways to highroad careers. Our guests represent the leaders of organizations implementing innovative approaches to helping the formerly incarcerated reconnect to the world that has changed so much during their incarceration.
Joining LISC LA for this conversation are:
● Roberto Luca, Director of Mass Liberation
● Semaje Stinson, Vocational Counselor with Asian Pacific Islander Drug Abuse Program
● Adewale Ogunbadejo, Vice President of Workforce Development at GRID Alternatives
Read the full show notes on our website at https://www.lisc.org/los-angeles/regional-stories/changemakers-la-podcast-upward-mobility-reentry-population
This episode of Changemakers LA was made possible by our partner, Ralph M Parsons Foundation.
If you want to learn more about how we support place-based initiatives for housing and economic development at LISC LA, please visit us online at https://www.lisc.org/los-angeles and follow us on Twitter @LISC_LA.
You can find the rest of the series on iTunes, Spotify, and Google Podcasts. Subscribe to hear more conversations about the people and places that shape Los Angeles. This podcast was produced in collaboration with Ronnell Hampton, founder of Growing Greatness Now. Growing Greatness Now is a consulting firm committed to social and environmental justice.
Addressing Affordable Housing and the Homeless Crisis in Los Angeles
Senior Program Officer Alexandra Dawson hosts this Changemakers LA podcast episode covering how organizations are helping address housing scarcity and homelessness through urban development, social programs, and advocacy. Our guests represent the leaders of organizations implementing innovative approaches to account for the most marginalized communities impacted by homelessness, like Angelenos who are transitional age youth, LGBTQ, and formerly incarcerated.
Joining LISC LA for this conversation are:
● Erika Hartman, Executive Director, Safe Place for Youth
● Becky Dennison, Venice Community Housing
● Veronica Lewis, Executive Director, HOPICS
Learn more about our speakers at https://www.lisc.org/los-angeles/regional-stories/addressing-affordable-housing-and-homeless-crisis-los-angeles
If you want to learn more about how we support place-based initiatives for housing and economic development at LISC LA, please visit us online at https://www.lisc.org/los-angeles and follow us on Twitter @LISC_LA.
Preparing Small Business for Eligibility and Accessibility in Supplier Diversity Programs
This month’s Changemakers LA podcast episode is hosted by Deborah Membreno, LISC LA Program Officer. It covers Preparing Small Business for Eligibility and Accessibility in Supplier Diversity Programs. Each guest provides unique insights on how they are helping impacted businesses increase their overall sustainability and eligibility for contracting.
Joining LISC LA for this conversation are:
- Dr. David Choi, Award-winning professor of Entrepreneurship, Loyola Marymount University (LMU)
- Claudia Morales, Small Business Owner and Business Consultant
- Rene Cota, President of CMG Alliance
This episode began by discussing how many workers are motivated to leave the traditional 9-5 to pursue their passions, exit corporate America, or take on new opportunities like starting a business. Each guest serves the diverse capacity gap needs of new and disadvantaged businesses. In addition, our guests’ business development efforts increase access to supplier diversity initiatives, which facilitate measurable and equitable outcomes towards upward mobility.
Learn more about our guests and our work at https://www.lisc.org/los-angeles/regional-stories/changemakers-la-podcast-preparing-small-business-eligibility-and-accessibility-supplier-diversity-programs
Eligibility and Accessibility in Supplier Diversity Programs and Opportunities
This month’s Changemakers LA podcast episode is hosted by LISC LA’s Deputy Director Miranda Rodriguez and Senior Program Officer Alexandra Dawson. It covers eligibility and accessibility in supplier diversity programs and opportunities in the City of Los Angeles. Each guest provides unique insights on the importance of building infrastructure, resources, and pipelines that improve economic mobility through contract & procurement opportunities for impacted entities they serve and partner with.
Joining LISC LA for this conversation are:
● Fred Jackson, City of Los Angeles, Economic Workforce and Development Department (EWDD), Assistant General Manager
● Eletrice Harris, Southern California Chapter of the National Organization of Minority Architects (SoCalNOMA), Summer Camp Director and the SoCal Student Chapter Liaison
● Howard Baum, Housing Authority of the City of Los Angeles (HACLA), Deputy General Counsel
Learn more on our site at https://www.lisc.org/los-angeles/regional-stories/eligibility-and-accessibility-supplier-diversity-programs-and-opportunities/
This episode of Changemakers LA was made possible by our partner, California Community Foundation.
If you would like to learn more about how we support place-based initiatives for housing and economic development at LISC LA, please visit us online at https://www.lisc.org/los-angeles and follow us on Twitter @LISC_LA
You can find the rest of the series on iTunes, Spotify, and Google Podcasts. Subscribe to hear more conversations about the people and places that shape Los Angeles. This podcast was produced in collaboration with Growing Greatness Now, a consulting firm committed to social and environmental justice.
Building Capacity for Workforce Development Organizations to Improve Service Delivery and Upward Mobility for Their Target Demographics
This month’s Changemakers LA podcast episode is hosted by LISC LA’s Program Officer, Shon Sen, and covers best practices and areas of opportunity to address the unprecedented impact that COVID-19 and inequity have had on the workforce as experienced by employers and employees that live and work in the City of Los Angeles. Each guest and the host provide a unique perspective on the importance of building the capacity of workforce development organizations to improve service delivery and economic mobility for the impacted demographics and entities they serve and partner with.
Joining LISC LA for this conversation are:
- Jeffery T. D. Wallace, LeadersUp, President and CEO
- Zahirah Mann, SLATE-Z, President and CEO
- De’Andrea Lottier, Los Angeles Black Worker Center, Director of Leadership
See full shownotes on our website at https://www.lisc.org/los-angeles/regional-stories/building-capacity-workforce-development-organizations-improve-service-delivery-and-upward-mobility-their-target-demographics
This episode of Changemakers LA was made possible by our partner, JP Morgan Chase.
If you would like to learn more about how we support place-based initiatives for housing and economic development at LISC LA, please visit us online at https://www.lisc.org/los-angeles and follow us on twitter @LISC_LA
You can find the rest of the series on iTunes, Spotify, and Google Podcasts. Subscribe to hear more conversations about the people and places that shape Los Angeles. This podcast was produced in collaboration with Growing Greatness Now, a consulting firm committed to social and environmental justice.
School to Career Pipeline: Managing Equity Outcomes Through Industry and Academic Coordination During & After COVID-19
Today's episode will cover the importance of the school-to-career pipeline and managing equity outcomes through industry, governmental, and academic institution/organization coordination during & after COVID-19. This episode is filled with jewels and highlights two Changemakers navigating the culture shift towards equity in the outcomes of the school-to-career pipeline during and after the COVID-19 pandemic.
Joining LISC LA for this conversation are:
- Joy Masha, Regional Director with CDF Freedom Schools
- Benny Torres, CEO at CDTech
Learn more on our site at https://www.lisc.org/los-angeles/regional-stories/school-career-pipeline-managing-equity-outcomes-through-industry-and-academic-coordination-during-after-covid-19/
Advancing Economic Mobility for Communities In South LA During the COVID-19 Pandemic
In 2020, LISC-LA created the South LA Economic Inclusion Implementation Plan, a 3-year implementation plan that supports an integrated, place-based approach to advancing economic mobility for communities in South LA.
The plan recommendations seek to connect South LA residents and businesses across three distinct districts in South LA: the Crenshaw Corridor, Exposition Park, and the Goodyear Tract to the regional economy and foster connection across local organizations to create ladders of economic opportunity for South LA residents.
The recommendations outlined in the South LA Economic Inclusion Implementation Plan seek to grow South LA’s strengths, combat the root of institutional oppression, and connect local organizations to bring more accessible economic opportunity for all South LA residents.
In this episode, Tunua sits down with three of our South LA Implementation partners and HUD S4 grantees to discuss what can be done for advancing economic mobility for communities in South LA.
View the full shownotes here: https://www.lisc.org/los-angeles/regional-stories/advancing-economic-mobility-communities-south-la/
Advancing Equitable Growth in the Affordable Housing Industry
In 2018, almost half of all renters in the United States were considered to be either moderately or severely cost-burdened, which means housing costs exceeded 30% of the family income. The COVID-19 crisis has highlighted and exacerbated the growing income inequality that has left millions of households behind.
Specifically, income inequality between Black and White households worsened. Although the median incomes of both Black and White households grew in the last decade, Black household incomes rose much more slowly. The median income for Black households in 2019 was $43,200—roughly 60% of that of white households and the lowest of all other racial groups.
In this episode, Tunua sits down with three experts to explore the topic of advancing equitable growth in the affordable housing industry.
Joining LISC LA for this conversation are:
- Alexis Laing, Sr. project manager at BRIDGE Housing
- Jarrett Moore, project manager at Coalition for Responsible Community Development and participant in LISC’s 2020-2021 cohort of the Housing Development Training Institute (HDTI)
- Justin Davis, COO of Landspire Group
Coronavirus Resiliency and Racial Inequity
The average net worth of a White family in America is 10x greater than the average net worth of a Black family. Let that sink in. In this episode, Tunua sits down with two experts to explore the topic of Coronavirus resiliency and racial inequity, especially during this unprecedented time.
Joining LISC LA for this conversation are:
- Maurice Jones, the CEO and president of LISC National.
- Andre Perry, a fellow in the Metropolitan Policy Program at the Brookings Institution, a columnist for the Hechinger Report, and a scholar-in-residence at American University.
In this episode we explore:
- {2:34} What Project 10x is and why it is so critical in this very moment
- {7:20} How leaders can shape public health and economic policy in a way that addresses the past and present impacts of systematic racism
- {13:43} How LISC has been and will continue to be a driving force for helping close the wealth gap between Black and White families
- {18:33} How the pandemic has impacted Black businesses and entrepreneurs
- {23:24} How Project 10x will impact the intersection of racial inequality and public health
- And so much more
How Do We Solve the Looming Eviction Crisis?
** This episode was recorded in December 2020 **
We’re almost a full year into the COVID-19 crisis and so many individuals and businesses are months behind in their rent due to the effects of the pandemic. In this episode, Tunua sits down with 3 experts to chat about the timely topic of cancelling the rent and what steps we can take to work to provide rent relief to those in need.
Joining LISC LA for this conversation are:
- Tom DeSimone, CEO and President of Genesis LA
- Tak Suzuki, the Director of Community and Economic Development at the Little Tokyo Center
- Rudy Espinoza, Executive Director of Inclusive Action for the City
In this episode we explore:
- {2:27} How we can support local tenants and landlords during this challenging time
- {5:50} The importance of thinking outside of the box through 2021 and beyond
- {6:59} What cancelling the rent actually means and how we can work together to provide rent relief
- {8:20} What our next steps should look like going forward
About our panel:
Tom DeSimone, CEO and President of Genesis LA. Genesis LA’s mission is to deliver financial solutions that advance economic and social opportunities in underserved communities. As President and CEO, Tom brings years experience to funding and implementing capital resources for work on much needed local community development.
Director of Community Economic Development of the Little Tokyo Service Center, Tak Suzuki. Tak is a veteran at the The Little Tokyo Service Center having spent 20 years serving the Little Tokyo community. Through his work at the LTSC he helps provide social services and community development focused on improving the lives of local individuals and families.
Rudy Espinoza is the Executive Director of Inclusive Action for the City, a leader in local community development with extensive experience in the field. At Inclusive Action, he leads the organization as they work to bring people together to build strong, local economies that uplift low-income urban communities through advocacy and transformative economic development initiatives
What is the best way to promote resilience in our communities right now?
This pandemic has been with us for over half a year. And though the mask wearing and social distancing have become a part of everyday life, small businesses – especially those in historically marginalized communities – are still feeling the impact of COVID-19 just as intensely as when it first began. Business owners may be settling into this new normal, but it begs the question: what is the best way to promote resilience in our communities right now, in a way that is sustainable and provides for people struggling in the current moment? Today, we’re hoping to answer some of those questions through the frame of economic development and community investment.
In this episode of the Changemakers LA podcast, we meet with leaders with firsthand experience in the community development field during COVID-19 and beyond.
Joining LISC LA for this conversation are:
- Mikaela Randolph, the board president of SoLA Food Co-op, a community owned grocery business
- Mary Lee, the former Deputy Director of PolicyLink
- Robert Lewis, the President of the Black Cooperative Investment Fund
In this episode we explore:
- How small minority-owned businesses can promote thriving local economies
- How and why gentrification impact small businesses, especially in LA and especially during COVID-19
- How the pandemic will impact business and community development in the years to come, specifically in LA
This episode of the Changemakers LA Podcast was made possible by our partner, JP Morgan Chase. To learn more about our community investment and small business investment programs, visit our website at https://www.lisc.org/los-angeles
Changemakers LA: Crisis Within a Crisis: Solving Homelessness Amidst a Pandemic
In the past year, the number of people experiencing homelessness within the Los Angeles County has risen by 13%. But today, hundreds of thousands more Angelenos are at risk of losing their homes as the pandemic has thrown both our city’s physical and financial health into limbo. In response to this crisis within a crisis, the City has protected Angelenos from ending up without a home by instating an eviction moratorium. But with thousands at risk and the moratorium set to expire, how do we prepare for what is still to come?
In this episode of the Changemakers LA podcast, we meet with leaders taking on homelessness in Los Angeles to discuss what is yet to come and how we can best respond.
Joining LISC LA for this conversation are:
- Lois Starr, Acting Executive Director at People Assisting the Homeless
- Laura Vandeweghe, Chief Operating Officer at Decro Corporation
- Tommy Newman, Senior Director at United Way of Greater Los Angeles
In this conversation we explore:
- How has the pandemic deepened the existing homelessness crisis
- What can be done to accelerate much-needed affordable housing development
- How can local governments and Angelenos be allies in this effort
- How has the pandemic emphasized the relationship between housing and health
This episode of the Changemakers LA Podcast was made possibly by our partner, Wells Fargo.
This podcast was recorded on 8/24. If you would like to learn more, visit the show notes at: https://www.lisc.org/los-angeles/, or view the Affordable Housing Toolkit at https://www.lisc.org/los-angeles/covid-19-response/supporting-affordable-housing-owners-during-covid-19/.
Changemakers LA: The Future of Housing in an Unprecedented Time
In recent months of pandemic response, the ‘Safer at Home’ order has reminded us of the importance and necessity of housing for a safe and healthy Los Angeles. However, for Angelenos at risk of losing housing or without a home, it has brought about an intensified need for supportive, affordable housing. As our city is coming to an acute awareness of the importance of housing for all, we must reform and expedite our approaches to working towards a housed and healthy Los Angeles.
On this Changemakers LA episode, we discuss the future of housing in this unprecedented time. We are proud to have Paul Beesemyer, Bill Huang, Rebecca Louie, and Audrey Peterson join us to discuss the effects of the current pandemic on affordable housing.
Our guests joining us for this episode are:
● Paul Beesemyer, Director of Southern California for the California Housing Partnership
● Bill Huang, Director of the Housing and Career Services Department for the City of Pasadena
● Rebecca Louie, Vice President/COO of Wakeland HDC
● Audrey Peterson, Senior Projects Manager at Clifford Beers Housing
In this episode, you will learn:
● What the coronavirus has taught the field about the relationship between housing, health and safety
● How coronavirus and the resulting lockdown is affecting the already rising demand for affordable housing
● How developers can adapt the services they provide to better serve residents who are sheltering in place
This episode of Changemakers LA was made possible by our partner, MUFG Union Bank.
If you would like to learn more, visit the show notes at https://www.lisc.org/los-angeles/regional-stories/changemakers-la-future-housing-unprecedented-time
Changemakers LA: Rethinking Housing Development
A shortage of affordable housing is causing displacement of residents and driving some into homelessness. While policymakers are trying to find ways to preserve affordable units and to encourage the development of new ones, some nonprofit organizations have figured out how to make more affordable housing available faster and cheaper.
On this Changemakers LA episode, we discuss a couple of innovative housing solutions. We are proud to have Brilliant Corners and Genesis LA join us to discuss what they’re doing to make housing development faster and less expensive.
Our guests joining us for this episode are:
- William F. Pickel, Chief Executive Officer of Brilliant Corners
- Tom De Simone, President and CEO of Genesis LA
In this episode, you will learn:
- How Genesis LA is helping developers buy property quickly and Brilliant Corners is turning storage facilities, office buildings and churches into housing
- What infill development is and the opportunity it can provide for more housing
- Why rental subsidies are important to get more housing units online quickly
If you would like to learn more about how we provide capital support for innovative housing at LISC LA, please visit us online at https://www.lisc.org/los-angeles and follow us on twitter @LISC_LA
Changemakers LA: How Landlords and Community Members Can Keep Folks Housed
More than 150,000 Californians slept in shelters, cars or on the street in 2019. This reflected a 17% increase from 2018. Close to 59,000 people were homeless in L.A. County, 61% of which represent the city of L.A.
Rising rents have displaced lower-income Californians and created a shortage of 1.4 million affordable housing units. While $1 billion in this year’s state budget has been allocated to help build shelters and long-term housing, eviction counseling and other homeless prevention strategies are needed.
On this Changemakers LA episode, we discuss how landlords and community members can mitigate displacement and keep residents housed. We are proud to have Social Justice Learning Institute and Mercy Housing join us to discuss what they’ve done to support residents stay in their homes.
Our guests joining us for this episode are:
• Dr. D’Artagnan Scorza, Founder and Executive Director of the Social Justice Learning Institute
• Jacquie Hoffman, Regional Vice President of Property Operations for Mercy Housing
• Jonathan Wolf, Director of Resident Services for Southern California for Mercy Housing
In this episode, you will learn:
• What it took to get rent control in Inglewood
• What tenant protections currently exist
• How landlords can support in the effort to keep folks from being displaced
Resource: Eviction Prevention Program (EPP) http://www.neighborworks.org/Documents/TrainingandServices_Docs/Training_ProfDev_Docs/In-Person-Training/Eviction-Prevention-Programming-Best-Practices-Review.aspx
Learn more about our work at https://www.lisc.org/los-angeles
Changemakers LA: Investing In America’s Workforce with Union Pacific Railroad and BCOs
Union Pacific Railroad partnered with LISC in 2018, investing $3 million to connect unemployed and underemployed workers to LISC Financial Opportunity Centers (FOCs) in four cities nationwide including Los Angeles. The funding supports connecting low-income residents to careers in the Transportation, Distribution, and Logistics (TDL) industry. According to the LA Economic Development Corporation’s Report on the TDL Sector in Southern California, this industry is on the rise as the San Pedro Port Complex (Port of Los Angeles and Port of Long Beach) continues to grow and expand impact across the region. The Complex handles more containers per ship than any other port complex in the world.
- The average annual wage in the trade and logistics industry in 2015 was $63,130, approximately 14% higher than the average wage for all other industries in Southern California.
- Over the next five years, an expected 21,430 new job openings will be created and an additional 69,910 replacement workers will be needed due to employment churn.
On this Changemakers LA episode, we discuss the goals of the partnership and the successes we’ve seen so far. We are proud to have Union Pacific, CRCD and MAOF join us to discuss how they’re connecting low-income residents to living wage jobs.
Our guests joining us for this episode are:
- Treasure Owens, Financial Coach at Coalition for Responsible Community Development (CRCD)
- Ken Kuwamura, Senior Manager of Talent Acquisition and Manager Excellence at Union Pacific
- Isaias Hernandez, Community Development Director at the Mexican American Opportunity Foundation (MAOF)
In this episode, you will learn:
- More about Union Pacific’s Building Tomorrow’s Workforce initiative
- What CRCD and MAOF’s career pathways look like for the clients they serve
- How we are addressing barriers for low-income residents to compete for today’s middle skills jobs
Learn more about LISC and the work we do on our website at https://www.lisc.org/los-angeles
Changemakers LA Episode #13: What Move LA Is Doing Around Transit Districts
For our 13th Changemakers LA episode, we discuss the logistical and financial obstacles facing public transportation services in Los Angeles and the work Move LA has done to address them. We are proud to have Move LA, Senator Ben Allen, and Kosmont Companies join us in exploring the ongoing relationship between public transit and community health.
Our guests joining us for this episode are:
- Denny Zane, Executive Director of Move LA
- Senator Ben Allen, State Senator of the 26th Senate District
- Larry Kosmont, Chairman and CEO of Kosmont Companies
In this episode, you will learn:
- How Move LA has advanced public infrastructure in LA
- How the changing landscape of affordable housing has affected public transportation
- Current/future legislative and business strategies for improving public transit services in Los Angeles and California
Interested in learning more about economic development activity in LA County? Join our e-mail list over at www.lisc.org/los-angeles.
Changemakers LA Episode #12: Opportunity Zones
For our 12th Changemakers LA episode, we discuss the power and potential of Opportunity Zones, and how they can be utilized to increase business activity in LA County and revitalize traditionally under-invested communities. We are proud to have the LA Mayor’s Office of Economic Development and Public Private Strategies join us in discussing this exciting new realm of community investment.
Our guests joining us for this episode are:
- George Ashton, Managing Director of Strategic Investments at LISC
- Ron Frierson, Director of Economic Policy at the Los Angeles Mayor’s Office of Economic Development
- Tammy Halevy, Senior Advisor at the consulting agency, Public Private Strategies
In this episode, you will learn:
- What Opportunity Zones are and how they arose
- How Opportunity Zones can be used to help cultivate healthy communities
- What LISC and other nonprofits are doing to leverage strategies in the opportunity zone playbook to help low-income neighborhoods
Interested in learning more about Opportunity Zones? Join our e-mail list over at www.lisc.org/los-angeles.
Changemakers LA Episode #11: The Status of Blacks Experiencing Homelessness
For our 11th Changemakers LA episode, we discuss the disparity of black people experiencing homelessness in Los Angeles based on an investigative report conducted by the Ad Hoc Committee on Black People Experiencing Homelessness. We are proud to have the St. Joseph Center and the Corporation for Supportive Housing (CSH) join us in discussing this important and pressing issue.
Our guests joining us for this episode are:
- Va Lecia Adams, President & CEO of St. Joseph Center
- Saba Mwine, Senior Program Manager at Corporation for Supportive Housing (CSH)
In this episode, you will learn:
- Why underrepresentation of service professionals may be causing the huge disparity of black people experiencing homelessness
- The Report’s recommendations on solving the homelessness issue
- How to get involved with curbing homelessness in LA
Interested in learning more about our capacity building and financing of affordable housing development? Join our e-mail list over at www.lisc.org/los-angeles.
Changemakers LA Episode #10: Providing the Skills Needed for Quality Jobs
For our 10th Changemakers LA episode, we explore the work we are doing to address the skills gap in low income communities through our Bridges to Career Opportunities (BCO) program. This program meets the need of supplying skilled workers for local companies who have job openings that are hard to fill due to the advanced skills needed. It also provides a pathway for local residents to seize these high earning job opportunities. We are so proud to have Citi Foundation partner with us and support this work.
Our guests joining us for this episode are:
- Cassie Woods, Manager of Financial Empowerment Programs for Youth Policy Institute (YPI)
- Daria Sheehan, Senior Program Officer for Citi Foundation
In this episode, you will learn:
- Why the BCO program is a priority for Citi Foundation
- How our partner, YPI, is helping folks obtain living wage jobs in the tech and construction industries
- The tools YPI is utilizing to help people overcome barriers as they move into these lucrative industries
Interested in learning more about our BCO program? Join our e-mail list over at www.lisc.org/los-angeles.
Changemakers LA Episode #9: Economic Inclusion In The City Of Long Beach
For our 9th Changemakers LA episode, we are excited to have four leaders from various organizations for a conversation about economic inclusion in the City of Long Beach.
Our expert guests joining us for this show are:
*Jamila Henderson, Senior Associate at Policy Link
*John Keisler, Economic Development Director at City of Long Beach
*James Alva, Senior Vice President and Market Manager for Citi Bank
*Kim M. Tabari, Project Manager at USC Program for Environmental & Regional Equity
In this episode, you will learn:
1. What economic inclusion means
2. The strengths and challenges Long Beach faces with economic inclusion
3. The role that LISC and others are playing in advancing economic inclusion in Long Beach
Interested in learning more about how we engage in economic development in a way that puts every resident at the center of our efforts? Click the link here to view the Everyone In Economic Inclusion Initiative Phase 1 Report
Changemakers LA Episode #8: LISC AmeriCorps Forming Leaders Through Community Development
In this episode, LISC LA Assistant Program Officer Jessica Wackenhut, interviews Katherine Aguilar, an alum of the LISC AmeriCorps Program and now a Project Manager at LA Family Housing (LAFH).
Katherine Aguilar is responsible for LAFH's development activities for selected housing and community development projects. She manages all phases of development, all aspects of financing and the construction process. Katherine is currently managing two new projects; South Los Angeles and the Valley.
In this episode, you will learn:
1. How Katherine got into the Community Development industry
2. Her journey to the role of Project Manager at LA Family Housing (LAFH).
3. The role that LISC AmeriCorps Program played.
Inspired by Katherine's story? Interested in a career in community developoment or becoming an AmeriCorps member host? Join our e-mail list over at www.lisc.org/los-angeles so you can be notified of upcoming opportunities.
Changemakers LA Episode #7: How to Overcome Nimbyism
In this episode, LISC LA Community Development Officer Alexandra Dawson interviews Rochelle Mills, an alum of the Housing Development Training Institute (HDTI) and now President and Chief Executive Officer at Innovative Housing Opportunities (IHO).
Rochelle Mills is responsible for IHO’s housing development, new project and program initiatives, business development relations, and oversees legislative, advocacy and policy interests as well as stakeholder relations. Rochelle brings a diverse background in architecture, design, construction administration, community planning, writing, and cultural tourism to her role in affordable housing. She is the former President of the Southern California Association of NonProfit Housing (SCANPH), and serves on several public and nonprofit boards, services committees, and leader groups.
Listen to this episode where she shares how HDTI helped her overcome imposter syndrome.
In this episode, you will learn:
1. How Rochelle got into the affordable housing industry
2. Her journey to the role of President and Chief Executive Officer at a nonprofit affordable housing development company
3. Why BANANA is an issue and where it comes from (Hint: it's worse than NIMBY)
Inspired by Rochelle's story? Interested in a career in affordable housing? Join our e-mail list over at www.lisc.org/los-angeles so you can be notified of upcoming training opportunities.
Changemakers LA Episode #6: HDTI Helping Folks Fight Housing Insecurity In California
Daniel has been working within the Los Angeles’ nonprofit affordable housing field for more than a decade and has contributed to the development of more than 590 multifamily residential units yielding $186 million of real estate investment in Los Angeles.
Listen to this episode where he shares his advice for those who want to get into the industry and fight housing insecurity.
In this episode, you will learn:
1. The motivation behind Daniel’s career
2. How Daniel went from an intern to Vice President of Real Estate at a local nonprofit
3. Why he feels HDTI helped him in his career growth
Inspired by Daniel’s story? Join our e-mail list over at www.lisc.org/los-angeles so you can be notified of upcoming training opportunities.
Changemakers LA Episode #5: Get Hands On Experience With The Housing Development Training Institute
In this episode, LISC LA Community Development Officer Alexandra Dawson interviews Denice Wint, a LISC Americorps and HDTI Alum and now Director of Projects and Services of Innovative Housing Opportunities, to discuss her career path in affordable housing development.
In this episode, you will learn:
1. How Denice went from an intern for the City of Inglewood to Director of Projects and Services of Innovative Housing Opportunities
2. Why she decided to enroll in HDTI
3. How HDTI enhanced her career
Changemakers LA Episode #4: Defining Transportation Equity in LA County
Our expert guests joining us for this show are:
* Ms. Jackie Dupont Walker Executive Director of Ward Economic Development Corporation based in South LA and Metro Board Director
* Isela Gracien, Excutive Director of East LA Community Corporation
* Jessica Meaney, Executive Director of Investing in Place
Changemakers LA Episode #3: Tackling Homelessness in LA County
Amy Anderson, Executive Director of PATH Ventures, a nonprofit developer that builds affordable permanent supportive housing
Rushmore Cervantes, General Manager of the Los Angeles Housing and Community Investment Department also known as HCIDLA
Phil Ansell, Director of the LA County Homeless Initiative
Changemakers LA Episode #2: Looking Back on 30 Years in LA
Changemakers LA Episode #1: Future of Equitable Development in LA
Guests:
Kristen Gordon, Economic Development Deputy for LA City Councilmember Marqueece Harris-Dawson
Shane Phillips, Board Member of Abundant Housing
Maira Sanchez, Policy Manager at Southern California Association of Nonprofit Housing