Marilyn N. Stambler serves as the President and Chief Operating Officer of the Friars Charitable Foundation, that champions philanthropic initiatives in the arts, education, and human services. With a steadfast commitment to improving the quality of life for individuals and families across Los Angeles, Marilyn has guided the foundation with both vision and heart, continuing its rich legacy of giving with focus on equity, access, and opportunity.

Under Marilyn’s leadership, the Foundation has strategically expanded its reach, ensuring that resources are directed toward grassroots and community-based organizations that provide critical, often overlooked, services. The foundation’s support has bolstered programs that increase access to the performing arts, fund after-school and summer enrichment for children and youth (like South Central LAMP’s Camp LAMP) and improve quality of life for adults with specialized needs. Marilyn’s inclusive approach to philanthropy recognizes that sustained impact begins with trust in community expertise and long-term investment in human potential.

One of the organizations deeply touched by Marilyn’s generosity is South Central LAMP, where she has championed our mission to empower immigrant women and their children. Her advocacy and support have played a pivotal role in sustaining Camp LAMP, our free summer enrichment program. The families participating in this program have participated in enriching field trips to places such as Underwood Family Farms, the Los Angeles Arboretum, and this week they’ll head to the Craft Contemporary Museum to work on sensory art projects. Our families also have enjoyed hands-on experiences in art, music, sports, and social-emotional learning on our campus. These experiences are more than just summer fun—they are essential opportunities for our children to explore, grow, and thrive.

Marilyn’s philanthropy is marked by more than just financial support; it reflects her belief in the transformative power of dignity, access, and joy. Her quiet leadership and deep empathy have made her a trusted ally to many in the nonprofit community, especially those working on behalf of immigrant families and underserved neighborhoods. She is known not only for what she gives, but how she gives—with grace, humility, and a deep understanding of the systemic challenges facing marginalized communities.

In recognition of her unwavering dedication and extraordinary impact, we are proud to honor Marilyn Stambler as South Central LAMP’s Person of the Year. We celebrate her as a champion of children, families, and the belief that every person—regardless of their background—deserves the opportunity to flourish.

Valerie Woodard is a beloved and dedicated kindergarten teacher at St. Martin of Tours School in Los Angeles, where she has made a lasting impact on generations of young learners through her unwavering commitment to early childhood education. With a warm heart, boundless creativity, energy, and an inspiring sense of purpose, Valerie creates a nurturing classroom environment that encourages curiosity, builds confidence, and lays the foundation for a lifelong love of learning.

Valerie’s dedication to her students extends far beyond the walls of her classroom. She is also a passionate community advocate who believes deeply in teaching children not only academics but also the value of empathy, generosity, and service to others. Valerie has spearheaded biannual diaper and back-to-school drives in partnership with South Central LAMP for over 15 years, engaging her kindergarteners and their families in hands-on philanthropy that benefits families in need across South Los Angeles.

Under her leadership, these drives have grown year after year. In 2024 alone, Valerie’s students donated more than 300 backpacks filled with art supplies for South Central LAMP—contributions that totaled over $13,000 in in-kind donations.

Valerie’s efforts have created a ripple effect of compassion that resonates throughout her school and beyond. By modeling community engagement in such an authentic and hands-on way, she instills in her students a lifelong understanding of the importance of service and social responsibility.

In recognition of her extraordinary contributions to South Central LAMP, Valerie Woodard is being honored with the Outstanding Community Partner Award. This honor celebrates her profound impact—not just as an educator, but as a woman of service whose actions embody the very spirit of empowerment. Valerie is a treasured member of the St. Martin of Tours School community and a shining example of what it means to lead with heart, integrity, and purpose.

St. Martin of Tours Parish, under the compassionate leadership of Fr. Paul Fitzpatrick, has become a beacon of generosity through its annual diaper drives in support of South Central LAMP mothers. What began as a simple act of charity has grown into a meaningful and impactful tradition that exemplifies the parish’s enduring commitment to serving those in need.

Spearheaded by Maria Alcalde, parishioners come together to collect diapers for mothers and young children in our programs. These drives are more than a donation effort; they are an expression of love, dignity, and shared humanity. By addressing one of the most basic needs of the families we serve, St. Martin of Tours plays a direct role in ensuring that no mother must choose between food, rent, and diapers for her child.

The collaboration between St. Martin of Tours and South Central LAMP is a shining example of what can happen when faith-based communities embrace their role as change-makers. These diaper drives not only provide vital material support but also create a culture of empathy and collective responsibility among parishioners. Each donation is a message to the mothers we serve: you are not alone. Your community cares.

We are profoundly grateful to Maria Alcalde, Fr. Paul Fitzpatrick, and the entire St. Martin of Tours Parish community for their steadfast dedication and partnership. Their work affirms what we at South Central LAMP believe wholeheartedly—that when we come together in solidarity, we build a stronger, more compassionate Los Angeles for everyone. In recognition of their extraordinary contributions, we present St. Martin of Tours Parish with the Outstanding Community Partner Award.