A LEGACY OF IMPACT: HONORING THE PAST, INSPIRING THE FUTURE

For over three decades, LA’s BEST has been a trusted partner for families and communities, offering no-cost, afterschool enrichment where it is needed most. In this 2024 Annual Report, we highlight the stories of resilience and innovation that have shaped our journey. By supporting students in historically under-resourced neighborhoods, we are not just fostering academic success, we are ensuring they are truly Ready for the World. As we reflect on this legacy and envision what lies ahead, our CEO and Board Chair share their thoughts on how we can continue shaping brighter futures together.


 

As the new CEO of LA’s BEST, I am profoundly humbled to step into a role shaped by over 35 years of transformative work. The legacy of this organization is one of unwavering dedication—a commitment to equity, opportunity, and empowerment for the children and families of Los Angeles. It is a legacy that honors those who built it while challenging us to dream even bigger for the future.

This legacy of impact is evident in every corner of our work, from the students whose lives have been transformed to the families who have found a trusted partner in LA’s BEST. It is seen in the tireless efforts of our staff, the steadfast support of our community partners, and the investment of donors who believe in our mission.

While we celebrate our rich history, we recognize that our work is far from complete. The needs of our students continue to evolve, and the challenges faced by our families demand innovation, collaboration, and resilience. With this in mind, our focus is twofold: honoring the principles and achievements that have brought us to this point while innovating and expanding to meet the demands of the future. As we reflect on the past, we are inspired to imagine a future where every child has the tools to thrive, every family feels supported, and every community is empowered by greater access to high quality educational experiences.

As we move forward, let us remember the values that have guided us—compassion, excellence, and an unwavering belief in the potential of every child. Let us honor the past by staying true to our roots and inspire the future by daring to dream of what’s possible.

Together, we have created something extraordinary: a foundation of hope and opportunity that reaches across neighborhoods and generations. Thank you for being part of this incredible journey. Together, we will continue to create a legacy of impact that uplifts generations to come.

With gratitude and vision,

Michele Broadnax
President & CEO
LA’s BEST


 

As we reflect on the past year, we honor the Legacy of Impact that has defined LA’s BEST for over three decades. This legacy is rooted in our unwavering commitment to delivering scalable, meaningful programming that meets the evolving needs of the children and families we serve. Today, our reach extends to over 203 schools and an additional 16 morning sites, showcasing the breadth of our work. At the same time, the depth of our enrichment programs—including arts, sports, STEM, literacy, wellness, and more—demonstrates the transformative impact we strive to achieve for every student.

This year, we’ve scaled our efforts to address the needs of our community, reviving beloved citywide events like the Dance & Drill Team Showcase and fostering spaces where students and families can reconnect and thrive. These initiatives go beyond academic support, equipping LA’s BEST students with the social and emotional skills they need to succeed. This holistic approach is a cornerstone of our legacy, preparing the next generation to lead with confidence, compassion, and resilience.

Our impact would not be possible without the dedication of our remarkable staff and the unwavering support of our invaluable partners—including the City of Los Angeles, the Los Angeles Unified School District, philanthropic supporters, and an incredible network of donors. Together, we are building more than an afterschool program—we are creating a foundation for equity, opportunity, and lasting success in our communities.

Looking ahead, we remain committed to deepening our programs, expanding our reach, and scaling our work to meet the growing needs of children and families across Los Angeles. As we prepare to celebrate our 35th anniversary, we are inspired by how far we’ve come and energized by the possibilities that lie ahead.

Thank you for being an integral part of LA’s BEST. Your belief in our mission makes this work possible. Together, we will continue to build a legacy that transforms lives and strengthens Los Angeles for generations to come.

Damián Mazzotta
Board Chair
LA’s BEST


LA’s BEST 2024 Executive Summary

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LA’s BEST
200 N Spring St | Los Angeles, CA 90012