The Durfee Foundation has awarded South Central LAMP one of the 2024 Lark Awards! The Lark Awards support the collective care and renewal of staff at small community-centered organizations with deep roots in their Los Angeles communities. To read more, please visit https://conta.cc/3Bdm8md

On May 16, South Central LAMP held a Donor Recognition Reception and had the privilege of honoring the Religious of the Sacred Heart of Mary (RSHM) for their extraordinary 30-year dedication as one of the eight founding orders of our agency. The evening was a testament to their unwavering commitment and the impactful difference they have made in our community.

Guests were welcomed into a festive space hosted by Polsinelli in Century City. The speeches that evening featured SC LAMP’s Board Chair, Dan Bir; one of our 2024 graduating mothers, Laura Lopez, who spoke on how the past three years in our program have changed her in ways she could not have imagined.

We also heard from Sr. Cathy Garcia, RSHM, our ESL Coordinator, who has taught at SC LAMP for the past 17 years, and said that when the congregations originally came together, they were “modeling how collaborating and sharing resources can bring life and justice both locally and globally.” We heard next from Samira Alvarez, our Early Education and Programs Manager; Jessie Hernandez, our Adult Education and Programs Manager; and our Executive Director, Diana Pinto, who spoke on our recent accomplishments and on the importance of everyone’s dedication to our community to ensure what was started 30 years ago, has a thriving future.

The highlight of the evening was hearing from Board member Marg Graf when she honored RSHM’s for their legacy of compassion, service, and their profound influence on our mission. The ambiance was one of celebration and deep appreciation, as we recognized not only the longevity of their support, but also the personal connections they have fostered within our organization over the past three decades. RSHM’s generosity will enable South Central LAMP to reach new heights in the years to come.

The reception also provided an opportunity of fellowship for our donors, including Current and Past Board Members, Current Grantors, Community Partners, Founding Orders and Teachers and Staff. It gave everyone an opportunity to pause and reflect on all that has been accomplished. As we celebrate this historic year, we are reminded of the power of collaboration and the incredible outcomes that are possible when dedicated individuals come together for a common cause. The event was not only a celebration of the past year, but also a hopeful look towards a future filled with promise and continued partnership.

As Dan and Diana mentioned in their speeches, if you are interested in making a true difference, South Central LAMP is looking for new members to join the following committees: Communications, Development, Finance, Governance, and Program. Please contact Nicole Burcham, Development Director, at nburcham@southcentrallamp.org or 323-234-1471 ext. 101 for more information on how you can get involved.