onegreater los angeles

Working together for peace, justice, freedom, equality and dignity.

pg 2 YWCA in the Community

WHAT’S INSIDE

pg 3 Getting to Know YWCA GLA Development Manager, Laureen O’Hara

November 2015

Welcome to ONE VOICE,

ONE MOVEMENT,

ONE VISION.

pg 4 Digital Learning Academy Graduates Inaugural Class

pg 6 Job Corps Graduation

YWCA Greater Los Angeles in the CommunityActively Pursuing Our Mission to Empower

The YWCA Greater Los Angeles is actively involved in many aspects of the community in the pursuit of our mission to empower. Enjoy this collection of stories highlighting the impact and outreach we are cultivating in the community.

In collaboration with the WNBA’s Los Angeles Sparks, the YWCA Greater Los Angeles was invited to host an informational booth promoting the Digital Learning Academy at their #WeAre Empowerment Festival at LA Live on August 30, 2015. Participants learned about the groundbreaking community initiatives offered by YWCA Greater Los Angeles.

On Sept. 26, 2015, the YWCA Union Pacific Empowerment Center participated in “Adopt-A-Block” along with other community organizations and partners, including the offices of Supervisor Hilda Solis and Assembly Member Jimmy Gomez. Participating organizations are members of the East Los Angeles Empowerment Congress, who meet monthly to develop community projects. This community service day focused on beautifying a neighborhood block. Participants divided into teams to paint, pick up trash and clean the street. In addition,

information booths were set up for residents to receive information about upcoming events and services.

pg 5 Getting to Know YWCA GLA Director of Sexual Assault Crisis Services, Sheetal Chib

pg 8 Save the Date: 2015 Rhapsody Ball

YWCA in the community continued on page 2 and 3.

YWCA Union Pacific Empowerment Center and community partners participated in “Adopt-A-Block,” a neighborhood beautification project in East Los Angeles.

Supervisor Hilda Solisspeaks to the “Adopt-A-Block” participants.

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Dear Friends of the YWCA Greater Los Angeles:

As we share with you accomplishments,

achievements, and efforts from these past few months, I am reminded of the monumental and meaningful work of our dedicated, capable team at the YWCA Greater Los Angeles. This organization is greatly indebted to hard-working individuals who delight in the growth and success of our community.

During these last few months, we celebrated the success of two groups of graduates who are now experiencing the new beginnings of promising careers. We engaged in several large-scale and grassroots community efforts, proudly received new partners and corporate sponsors, and welcomed the expanded role of talented team members. We recognize that all efforts – those seemingly large and those that may appear more modest – work together and flow from a singular mission-driven focus.

I encourage you take a moment to read these dynamic stories - and celebrate with us. Please join with us in partnership to create a better tomorrow for our community.

Sincerely,

Faye WashingtonPresident and CEO YWCA Greater Los Angeles

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We create a safe spacThe YWCA

Greater Los Angeles proudly partnered with L.A.U.S.D. and Loyola Marymount University for the PowHer Up Conference on Oct. 3, 2015. The event, which invited 21 Los Angeles schools, included a day of workshops and panel discussions for young women to learn about strategies to achieve personal and academic success. The conference aimed to empower students and provide them resources to successfully overcome adversity, while inspiring them to think big and become global leaders.

Also on Oct. 3, the YWCA Greater LA presented 13 new Sexual Assault Crisis Services volunteers with certificates of completion. The training provides a curriculum certified by the California Office of Emergency Services to individuals interested in becoming a volunteer advocate for the Sexual Assault Crisis Services. These volunteers and interns will provide invaluable advocacy and counseling services to survivors of sexual violence 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

The 10th Annual Shopping Extravaganza at Citadel Outlets chose the YWCA Greater Los Angeles as one of its featured non-profits in October. Shoppers had the opportunity to support YWCA programs with proceeds from their entrance ticket. Nearly $1300 was raised for the YWCA Greater Los Angeles from ticket sales.

On Oct. 6, 2015, the YWCA Greater Los Angeles was invited by Supervisor Hilda Solis to participate in a Hispanic Heritage Month event at the Hall of Administration Office. Children from local schools joined an art contest which promoted civic involvement and education. Participating children were recognized for their projects and efforts.

New sexual assault volunteers completed extensive training to provide counseling services and advocacy to survivors.

YWCA in the community continued....

Proceeds of the ticket sales to the 10th Annual Shopping Extravaganza at the Citadel Outlets benefitted the YWCA Greater LA in October.

Meet Laureen O’Hara. Ms. O’Hara joined YWCA Greater Los Angeles team as Donor Relations and Events Coordinator in December 2013. In July 2015, she was promoted to Development Manager. Ms. O’Hara brings a wealth of experience to the organization from working within rigorous corporate marketing and sales environments to dedicating

years within the nonprofit sector for organizations such as, The Special Olympics and Avon Walk for Breast Cancer.

Why does the mission of the YWCA resonate with you personally?

Day to day I desire to be part of an effort that positively impacts the community and the world around me. I feel this profoundly because I am a feminist who grew up in a generation where “feminism” was a bad word. As a community, we need to reinvigorate these campaigns to end racism and empower women because the need is still as strong as it was 121 years ago. I am honored to work for YWCA Greater Los Angeles and its ever so clear cut mission and directive. It is also exhilarating working for an organization that is so rooted in history yet continues with a fresh approach to serving the community.

Why are you committed to your work at YWCA Greater Los Angeles and why is it important from the community’s perspective?

My job is to create resources for the organization by opening dialogue and creating relationships with potential partners. These conversations lead to financial opportunities for programs. Without committed partners, we would not have the staff, teachers, resources, classes, facilities, and so much more our community relies on to remove barriers to their success. Our department works to see that the organization and its mission prosper. I have learned that people truly do care and want to give. We create avenues for them to be connected to their giving.

What is something interesting about you that others might not know?

I think of life as an adventure, with trees to climb and mountains to scale. I try to live fully and never let opportunity slip by. This means I do not spend much time being shy and will make an “ask”, or, it means ocean kayaking, sky-diving. Maybe not riding a helicopter over Hawaii islands because I hear that is dangerous! Supervisor Hilda Solis invited the YWCA GLA to

participate in Hispanic Heritage Month.

The YWCA Greater Los Angeles partnered with LAUSD and Loyola Marymount University for the PowHER Up Conference, a dynamic event dedicated to improving the lives of young women.

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Meet Sheetal Chib. Ms. Chib joined the YWCA Greater Los Angeles team in March 2011 as Therapist for Sexual Assault Crisis Services at the Compton Empowerment Center. This May of this year, she was promoted to Director of Sexual Assault Crisis Services. Ms. Chib received a Masters of Marriage and Family Therapy from the University of Southern California and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the University of California, Irvine. She is a certified sexual assault counselor and a BBS Registered Marriage and Family Therapy Intern in the State of California. She is currently working toward becoming a licensed psychotherapist.

“As industries change, we are even more committed to remaining agile and pliable as a program. This differentiates us from other programs. Also, we are training students with a great emphasis on placement. This paired with our ability to adjust to employer needs leads to successful placement and valued partnerships with employers,” shares Tasha Carter, Director Digital Learning Academy.

“Without the Digital Learning Academy many individuals in the surrounding community would not have access to this type of training whether due to socioeconomic barriers or lack of exposure to possibilities. We are opening up this world to disadvantaged youth and showing them multiple paths to success.”

The inaugural class of the Digital Learning Academy graduated on Sept. 12, 2015. After six months of intense training, including eight hour days, rigorous class instruction

and hands-on experience, graduates celebrated their accomplishments with friends and family. During the ceremony, inspiring speeches were delivered by Councilmember Mitch O’Farrell, Ian O’Donnell of Xerox, Kellie Johnson of Ace Clearwater and Lisa Cagnolatti of Southern California Edison and YWCA Greater Los Angeles Board Chairwoman.

Upon entering the program, each participant worked with Placement Coordinator, Sheila Wiley, to begin a journey to a successful career. Time spent with each student helped Ms. Wiley assess their work ethic and understand their approach to projects. Students also participated in Work Readiness workshops throughout the training to focus on resume and portfolio creation, and presentation skills.

“The placement process is vitally important so we can make a brand match with the student and employer. Just because a job is open does not mean each student would be the best fit. We work to understand the strengths of the students to help them be most successful when they are placed in a job,” shared Sheila Wiley. “Essentially, I am a matchmaker and have the best interest of both parties - the employer and the student. We want this to be a long-standing and beneficial relationship for both.”

To date, graduates have been placed in various industries including marketing, graphic design and digital printing. Currently, several students are interviewing for positions within aerospace, fashion design, cosmetics and sales.

Digital Learning Academy Graduates Inaugural Class

Why does the mission of the YWCA resonate with you personally?

When choosing my career path in college, I wanted to help others and be part of something that has great impact on the community. This desire led me to the field of Marriage and Family Therapy and to working with survivors of gender-based violence. Working for the YWCA connects my personal values and beliefs to a strong mission. Daily, I get to join the effort to eradicate sexual violence from our community.

Why are you committed to your work at YWCA Greater Los Angeles and why is it important from the community’s perspective?

Coming from a mental health background, my first introduction to working with survivors was during graduate school at University of Southern California. As I continued on this path, I began to see the ripple effect and wide spread impact of interpersonal and sexual violence. It is rare to meet an individual, especially a woman, who has not been personally or closely impacted by sexual violence. As a therapist, I have witnessed the fear, anger, sadness, and lack of trust experienced by survivors - this experience has solidified my commitment to support survivors and help them get to a place where they are strong again. From the community’s perspective, many do not realize the greater impact of sexual violence regarding public health. Impacted individuals often struggle with symptoms of Post-Traumatic

Stress Disorder which can impair their ability to work and raise children. This impacts their personal finances and can negatively impact the next generation. Trauma impacts a person, a family, a neighborhood, an organization, and a community. It is all interconnected and thus this work is gravely important.

As the newly appointed Director of SACS, where do you see the program growing in the near future?

We strive to continue increasing awareness of sexual violence and shine more of a spotlight on the program and resources available. Even with our recent growth and success over the last several years, we continue working to increase the capacity and quality of the program. As a leader of change in the community, we hope to provide more long-term care and help for survivors and continue enriching our offerings through a holistic approach which includes case management, advocacy, and counseling services.

What is something interesting about you that others might not know?

Outside of work, my primary passion is traveling and connecting with different cultures. Some of my favorite places where I have traveled are Australia, New Zealand, Europe, India, Fiji, and Costa Rica.

“All of my life, I was taught that getting ahead in life requires hard work and dedication. I grew up in Fresno, CA and have worked ever since I graduated from high school. For my first job I worked up to 12 hours each day picking seasonal fruits, packing, and loading trucks. When the harvest was over, I prepared the fields for the next season. Eventually I moved on and started working with my dad at construction companies until we were laid off due to the decline of construction work. After moving to Huntington Park to find a better opportunity to support my family, I worked during the day and enrolled in school where I received my IC3 computer certification. While applying for a volunteer job at the YWCA, the Center Director told me about Digital Learning Academy.

Since enrolling in the Digital Learning Academy, I have learned so much. I now have experience in digital print production using Xerox equipment and using a MAC and PC to design and print business cards, brochures, and newsletters. I can create an advertisement mock up for a magazine using Adobe Creative Suite. I loved learning how to use the 3D software program like Spaceclaim and the concepts of Graphic Design. This experience has taught me that I can learn anything. I will take this training and experience on my journey to a better life and a bright future.”

Juan Cardenas, Digital Learning Academy graduate

Digital Learning Academy Graduate

To support the work of the YWCA Greater Los Angeles visit: www.ywcagla.org

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YWCA Greater Los Angeles Empowerment Centers & Satellite Offices

Faye Washington Youth Empowerment Center1020 South Olive Street Los Angeles, CA 90015Contact: (213) 365-2991

Supervisor Gloria Molina Community Empowerment Center7515 Pacific Blvd. Walnut Park, CA 90255Contact: (213) 516-3575

Union Pacific Empowerment Center 4315 Union Pacific Avenue Los Angeles, CA 90023Contact: (323) 415-6057

Digital Learning Academy Studio Club Empowerment Center 1215 Lodi Place Los Angeles, CA 90038Contact: (213) 516-3557

Angeles Mesa Empowerment Center 2501 W. Vernon Avenue Los Angeles, CA 90008Contact: (323) 295-4288

Compton Empowerment Center 1600 E. Compton Blvd. Compton, CA 90221 Contact: (310) 763-9117

South Bay Sexual Assault Crisis Services920 Atlantic Avenue Long Beach, CA 90813Contact: (562) 590-6400

California State University Long Beach YWCA GLA Satellite OfficeWomen’s & Gender Equity Center (WGEC), Room LA1-102University Police Department Substation (UPD), Room USU-2391250 Bellflower Blvd.Long Beach, CA 90840-1201Contact: (562) 985-2668

Felicia Mahood Senior Center11338 Santa Monica Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90028Contact: (323) 295-4288

North Valley Infant Learning Center 11133 Omelveny AveSan Fernando, CA 91340Contact: (818) 365-7344

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Job Corps Graduation: WE ARE CONqUERORS

North Valley Empowerment Center1200 North Maclay Avenue San Fernando, CA 91340Contact: (818) 365-6881

YWCA Greater Los Angeles at Osborne12059 Osborne Street Sylmar, CA 91331 Contact: (818) 896-3322

“I’d rather stand tall than live on my knees ‘cause I’m a conqueror and I won’t accept defeat.”

ranked No. 7 in the nation, thanks to a dedicated staff of individuals, students, partners and the community. “This graduating class marches across the stage having

conquered many things; dreams, ideas, doubts, fears, and the perception of limitations,” said Victor Abadia, Interim Director. “We have experienced opportunities that have taken us to new levels personally, professionally, and collectively. It all began with the belief that we can conquer anything that we set our minds, hearts and hands to do. Your futures are right and you are full of promise. Take what you have learned and conquer every obstacle that dares stand in your way.”

These powerful words from a song featured on the hit television show, Empire, became the celebration cry for more than 120 Job Corps graduates, as they walked across the stage on Aug. 28, 2015.The ceremony featured each student and a personal accomplishment which brought them to that moment. “It is always a delightful moment for me and my colleagues

at the YWCA Greater Los Angeles and the Los Angeles Job Corps when we witness a Job Corps class cross the stage to realize their dreams,” said Faye Washington. “We charge you to stand as shining examples to the world of how the Job Corps program helps shape our country’s youth into contributing citizens.”During the ceremony, students were

inspired by guest speaker Auti Angel, a professional dancer on her way to stardom. Ms. Angel experienced a life threatening auto accident that left her paralyzed from the waist down. She shared her reinvention story - detailing her ability to pioneer wheelchair hip-hip dancing worldwide and continue her quest to pursue a career in music and acting. The attention in the room was palpable and her performance was met with thunderous applause. Job Corps students also participated

in the ceremony - Ashley Stanley performed the National Anthem and April Guerro represented the student body as class speaker. Some of the special awards and honors included: Luis Garcia Perez, recipient of the Transportation Communication Union (TCU) award and Dajanae Brown, Center Director’s Award recipient. As a testament to the overall success

of the program, many of the graduates had already been placed in their respective careers before the ceremony. The Los Angeles Job Corps is now

greater los angeles

YWCA Greater Los Angeles is dedicated to eliminating racism, empowering women and promoting peace, justice, freedom, and dignity for all.

Become a member today and ADD YOUR voice to help change YOUR community and empower lives! Visit ywcagla.org/membership for more information.

YWCA Greater Los Angeles: Safe space to live, learn and grow.

Officers:Lisa D. Cagnolatti Board Chairwoman

Alva P. Adams-Mason

Board Vice Chair

Patricia Reed-CunninghamBoard Secretary

Gerald M. Ford Board Treasurer

Elected Members:Eleanor Beasley

Margaret Leong CheccaMarianne Ellis

Dr. Annalisa EnrileMichelle Isenberg

Amanda J. LeeTrisha MuseNicole Osby

Diedra Porche’

Faye Washington President and CEO

YWCA Greater Los Angeles Board of Directors

If you would like to receive One Voice via email, please email laureen.o’hara@ywcagla.org.

1020 S. Olive Street, 7th FloorLos Angeles 90015

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Thank You!YWCA Greater Los Angeles would like to thank our valued corporate and community partners and friends for joining us at the 14th Annual Rhapsody Gala. It was truly a magical evening! If you missed this extraordinary night, we welcome you to join us next year to help support our efforts in making future brighter for at-risk youth, families and seniors throughout Los Angeles.