In 2025, LA’s BEST launched its first-ever Advocacy Cohort, inviting a dozen frontline staff to step into a new role: advocate. The idea was simple: to give those closest to our students the tools to understand policy, tell their stories with confidence, and see firsthand how decisions made in the State Capitol shape the programs they deliver every day.
What followed was transformative. Through workshops, legislative visits, and storytelling practice, participants built new confidence and found new purpose. Four of them — Edward, Antonio, Vanessa, and Jocelyn — offer a glimpse into what happens when staff are empowered to lead change from the ground up.
Edward Galvan
Summer Site Coordinator, Hoover Elementary
Edward joined the cohort with a clear purpose.
“I have a huge passion for advocating for students’ needs and helping those in need. Being part of this Advocacy Cohort aligned perfectly with my goals and the degree I am currently pursuing.”
At Hoover Elementary, he sees how expanded learning fills real gaps for families that work long hours.
“For many students, after school is not just daycare. LA’s BEST gives them a safe place, caring adults, and room to grow in ways even traditional schools cannot always provide.”
The cohort helped Edward practice speaking about funding, connect with peers across sites, and observe leadership in action. He left with new language and renewed energy to explain why these programs are essential for children and entire neighborhoods.
Antonio Rocha Medina
Learning Facilitator, Leadership Development Department
LA’s BEST Alumnus
Antonio’s story comes full circle. He once sat in after school as a student. Now he trains staff as a Learning Facilitator.
“I felt inspired to support the efforts of LA’s BEST, the same program that gave me a safe space to play, learn, and grow while my parents worked to support our family.”
Through the cohort, he deepened skills in time management, professional communication, and public speaking that strengthen his daily work with adults.
“Advocacy means fighting for something that matters. For me, that is LA’s BEST. Families, students, and neighborhoods would not be the same without it.”
Antonio hopes to mentor future cohorts so more alumni and staff can raise their voices with confidence.
Vanessa Parra
Workforce APS
LA’s BEST Staff Since 2006
Vanessa has spent years walking alongside young people as they explore workforce pathways. The cohort gave her a new toolkit and a louder mic.
“I am a firm believer that our voice and actions can create change. I joined to gain experience speaking with government officials and learning how our program gets funded.”
Meeting elected officials and learning the policy landscape sharpened her message.
“We are not just afterschool care. We are a family of collaborative minds creating meaningful opportunities every day.”
Vanessa continues to advocate for resources while coaching high school students who are taking their first steps into leadership and work.
Jocelyn Figueroa
Program Worker, Harvard Elementary
Jocelyn entered the cohort with a heart for students who may not have someone to speak for them.
“I joined because I wanted to help kids from various backgrounds and give a voice to those who cannot advocate for themselves.”
She learned how legislation shapes access to programs like hers and how to make that real for decision makers.
“LA’s BEST is a stepping stone to a better future. These enrichment programs help our kids grow socially, emotionally, and academically.”
Back on site, Jocelyn now brings an advocacy lens to daily moments and encourages peers to step into the role of changemaker.
What Comes Next
The inaugural Advocacy Cohort proved that advocacy isn’t reserved for policymakers; it belongs to everyone who believes in children and community. These staff members learned legislation works, found their voices, and discovered their power to shape change.
Now, as LA’s BEST launches its second Advocacy Cohort, we’re building on this momentum — expanding the program’s reach to include advocacy at both the State and City levels. Together, this growing network of staff advocates will continue to uplift our communities and ensure that programs like LA’s BEST have the support they need to thrive.
For more information or to get involved in a future cohort, contact salvador.manriquez@lacity.org
