How is LA’s BEST Transforming Lives in Los Angeles?

Los Angeles, a city known for its glitz and glamour, is also home to countless inspiring stories that often go unnoticed. These stories, ranging from personal triumphs to community-driven initiatives, highlight the resilience, creativity, and spirit of the people who call this city home.

The Power of Contributions: LA’s BEST

LA’s BEST, an organization dedicated to providing after-school programs for children, has been a beacon of hope and support for many families in Los Angeles. The organization has shared numerous stories of impact and inspiration, showcasing the power of contributions and community support.

One of the most heartwarming stories is about the magic of LA’s BEST team, who work tirelessly to uplift the community. They provide families with the support and peace of mind they need, especially during challenging times. The organization also honors its staff with annual awards, recognizing their dedication to students, families, and each other.

Training staff to foster social and emotional health in students is another crucial aspect of LA’s BEST. These stories express growth and responsibility, highlighting the importance of workforce development. Building relationships that nurture trust and confidence is at the core of their mission, and the stories of staff and student connections are truly heartwarming.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, LA’s BEST partnered with LAUSD Beyond The Bell to meet the needs of the community. Their response to the crisis is a testament to their commitment to serving Los Angeles.

Rewilder: A Journey of Zero Waste Fashion

In 2014, Lisa Siedlecki and Jennifer Silbert founded Rewilder, a company dedicated to creating zero waste fashion. With backgrounds in fashion and architecture, respectively, they were distressed by the waste produced by their industries. Rewilder was born out of a desire to reinvent fashion with zero waste originals.

Rewilder creates bags from 100% salvaged materials, designed, washed, cut, and sewn in California. This approach ensures that each bag has a micro-footprint and is of the highest quality. The process of making these eco-friendly bags is challenging, as all materials are salvaged and require thorough cleaning and examination.

One of their standout projects is the Airbag Backpack, made entirely from salvaged airbags and seatbelts. The auto industry rejects over 100,000 tons of material each year, and Rewilder upcycles this material into the best eco backpack on the market. They also work with large companies to transform waste streams into unique products, elevating materials to a high design standard.

Rewilder’s success is measured by the materials they save from landfills and the new standards they set for design and production. Their goal is to make zero waste design the norm in the fashion industry.

LA Influential: Shaping the City’s Future

Los Angeles City Hall, a symbol of the city’s power and influence, has witnessed countless stories of change and progress. Erected in 1928, it was meant to showcase a “new era of progress and accomplishment.” Today, it stands as a reminder of the city’s rich history and its ongoing evolution.

The L.A. Influential project by The Times profiles the people shaping the contours of the city. This initiative highlights individuals from various walks of life, including moguls, politicians, artists, and more. The project aims to capture the essence of influence in Los Angeles, showcasing how it has shifted over time.

Historically, influence in Los Angeles was concentrated among a few powerful families. However, since the 1992 riots, the city’s population has diversified, and influence can now come from anywhere. This reality is reflected in the L.A. Influential project, which features a diverse range of individuals who are making a difference in the city.

The project includes 101 profiles, categorized into Creators, Connectors, Money, Civic Center, Disruptors, and Establishment. These profiles highlight elected officials, social media influencers, philanthropic giants, and more. The demographic makeup of the list reflects the city’s diversity, with individuals from various ethnic backgrounds.

Uplifting Stories from Southern California

Southern California has been home to many uplifting stories in recent years. From young achievers to everyday heroes, these stories inspire and bring hope to the community.

One such story is that of Madison Hendrickson, a 9-year-old with cerebral palsy who received a Taylor Swift-themed wheelchair before a concert at SoFi Stadium. The wheelchair, designed by Magic Wheelchair, featured a large purple snake inspired by Swift’s “Reputation” album.

Another inspiring story is that of Clovis Hung, a 12-year-old who graduated from Fullerton College with five degrees. Hung’s curiosity and determination led him to pursue higher education at a young age, earning degrees in History, Science, Social Science, Science Mathematics, and Arts Human Expressions.

Joseph Valadez, who spent 30 years in and out of prison, earned a master’s degree in sociology from Cal State Long Beach. His journey from a life of drugs and incarceration to academic success is a testament to the power of perseverance and redemption.

Grayson Roberts, a 9-year-old entrepreneur, started a lemonade stand that gained support from social media influencer Charlie Rocket and pop punk legend Travis Barker. The venture, “Limitless Lemonade,” became a huge hit and helped Grayson achieve his dreams.

Olivia, a 15-year-old who battled cancer seven times, fulfilled her dream of becoming a clothing designer. With the help of the Dream Machine Foundation, Olivia’s designs were stitched on hats and branded on clothing under the label “Dreami by Livi.”

Weber Lin, an Arcadia High School student, made thousands of pieces of personal protective equipment (PPE) during the pandemic. His efforts propelled him to dream big, and he is now set to attend Stanford University.

Clyde Stokely’s persistence paid off when he won $5 million on a California Lottery scratch-off ticket. His story is a reminder that perseverance can lead to unexpected rewards.

Lupita Baltazar became the first in her family to graduate from college, overcoming numerous challenges along the way. Her parents, immigrants from Mexico, worked hard to provide her with the best education, and Lupita’s success is a testament to their sacrifices.

Brandon Tsay became a national hero after disarming a mass shooter in Monterey Park. Despite the adoration he received, Tsay remains humble and committed to helping his community.

Our Advice on the City

Los Angeles is a city of dreams, where stories of triumph and inspiration abound. For occasional travelers, we recommend visiting the iconic Los Angeles City Hall. Not only is it a stunning architectural marvel, but it also offers a glimpse into the city’s rich history and its ongoing evolution. Take a moment to reflect on the stories of influence and change that have shaped this vibrant metropolis.

For expert travelers, delve deeper into the local culture by exploring the diverse neighborhoods of Los Angeles. From the artistic vibes of Downtown LA to the multicultural tapestry of East LA, each area has its own unique stories to tell. Engage with the community, support local businesses, and discover the hidden gems that make Los Angeles truly special.

In conclusion, Los Angeles is a city that thrives on the resilience, creativity, and spirit of its people. Whether you’re an occasional traveler or a seasoned explorer, there’s always something new and inspiring to discover in this dynamic city. Let the stories of Los Angeles inspire you to dream big and make a difference in your own community.