OUR PARTNERS

Our partners are a vital part of the LA’s BEST community. We are grateful to all our partners for their generous contributions, which enabled us to scale enrichment opportunities and have a lasting impact in neighborhoods across Los Angeles.

If you would like to explore a partnership with us, please contact Christine Caruso at christine.caruso@lacity.org.

We would like to thank a few partners in particular:

The Green Foundation

The Green Foundation, along with other generous foundations, has provided vital unrestricted grant support to LA’s BEST during this challenging time, playing a crucial role in our ability to continue serving our communities effectively. Their contributions have not only enabled us to meet immediate needs but have also laid a strong foundation for our long-term success. This unwavering support empowers us to adapt to current challenges while positioning LA’s BEST for continued growth and impact in the years ahead, ensuring we remain steadfast in our mission to serve and uplift our communities.

Kaiser

Kaiser Permanente, one of our earliest and most steadfast partners since the inception of LA’s BEST, has consistently demonstrated its commitment to supporting our mission. Their significant investment in the development of a new and improved Learning Management System (LMS) marks a pivotal advancement in our professional development efforts. This innovative system will not only enhance in-person training but also create new opportunities for staff to connect, collaborate, and learn from each other, further strengthening our community and elevating the quality of our programming.

Advocare

Since 2016, it has been a valuable partner in our health and wellness programming, empowering LA’s BEST students to engage in hands-on nutrition education and providing them with a diverse range of physical activity options that enhance their ability to lead healthy, active lifestyles.

ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT

Elizabeth Rocha, a proud alumna of LA’s BEST, embodies the program’s profound impact on youth and community. Growing up in a family of seven in Wilmington, Elizabeth’s world expanded through her participation in LA’s BEST from 3rd to 5th grade (2000-2002). She recalls her excitement as a child, convincing her mother to enroll her for opportunities like field trips, sports, and creative activities she wouldn’t have otherwise experienced.

Through LA’s BEST, Elizabeth explored new horizons, from visits by the LA Kings to memorable outings such as an Easter egg hunt at Richard Riordan’s home. She thrived in the drill team, led by inspiring mentors like Ms. Nunez and Ms. Rubio, who taught life skills beyond the classroom. These experiences nurtured her creativity, inspired her high school cheerleading journey, and opened doors to a broader world.

Today, Elizabeth reflects on LA’s BEST as a safe, enriching environment that shaped her development and gave her family critical support. As an adult, she continues to give back, dedicating part of her workplace philanthropy to LA’s BEST, ensuring future generations enjoy the same transformative opportunities she cherished. Elizabeth’s story underscores the vital role of programs like LA’s BEST in empowering youth, building communities, and fostering lifelong connections.

“As a 3rd to 5th grader, I begged my mom to sign me up for LA’s BEST. We weren’t a family of means, but I saw they had field trips, sports, and activities that I wanted to experience. Coming from a family of seven, outings like those weren’t something we could often do, but through LA’s BEST, I got to be active, involved, and have experiences that shaped my development and deepened my connection to the community. Now, as a parent myself, I understand how hard it is to find affordable child care in a safe environment. Programs like LA’s BEST provide that security while offering kids the kind of enrichment and opportunities that make a lasting impact." – Elizabeth Rocha

EVENTS

LA's BEST Gala | August 30, 2023

 


 

Introducing Michele Broadnax: Leading the Way in Her First Year as CEO | January 2024

This year marks an exciting new chapter for LA’s BEST as we welcome Michele Broadnax in her first year as CEO. Michele brings a wealth of experience, an inspiring vision, and an unwavering commitment to empowering children and communities through transformative afterschool programs.

With a deep-rooted passion for education and equity, Michele has hit the ground running, building on the legacy of LA’s BEST while setting bold goals for the future. Her leadership has already made a significant impact, focusing on expanding opportunities for students, enhancing program quality, and strengthening partnerships that support our mission.

As a champion of innovation and inclusion, Michele is guiding LA’s BEST through a year of reflection, growth, and celebration—aligning with our 35th anniversary and reaffirming our dedication to creating brighter futures for the children of Los Angeles.


 

Locally Grown: A Garden Party | March 21, 2024

On a beautiful evening, the LA’s BEST community gathered for Locally Grown: A Garden Party, an unforgettable celebration featuring exceptional dishes crafted by an incredible lineup of talented chefs.

We are profoundly grateful to Chef Neal Fraser and Amy Knoll Fraser for once again hosting this cherished event in their stunning garden at Redbird | Vibiana.

Thanks to the generosity of our supporters and guests, we raised nearly $90,000 to further the impactful work of LA’s BEST.

A heartfelt thank you to Emmy Award-winning actor Terrence Terrell, whose inspiring story and passion for our mission captivated everyone in attendance.

2024 Chefs:
• Neal Fraser | Redbird & Vibiana
• Arjun & Nakul Mahendro | Badmaash | Burgers 99
• Diego Argoti | Poltergeist | Estrano
• Dustin Trani | J.Trani’s | Trani’s Dockside Station
• Fred Eric | Pi’ L.A. | Fred 62
• Vanessa & Thomas Tilaka Kalb | Agnes Restaurant & Cheesery
• Katianna & John Hong | Yangban

Thank you to everyone who made this event a success!

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

Click here to download the 2024 Executive Summary