Message from our Executive Director |
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Last month we celebrated our 30th Anniversary, and while reminiscing, I can’t help but think of all the lives affected by South Central LAMP over the years. There are days when, as an agency, you feel small compared to the problems of the world and wonder how much we can really do to affect change.
Then I remember the many people who affected my life as I was growing up, and how one person can really make a difference. If you’ve ever gone through a difficult period, of self-doubt or even curiosity, you know that having people beside you is instrumental in your success.
Sometimes all you need is someone to believe in you more than you believe in yourself. Sometimes all you need is encouragement. At South Central LAMP we created a safe space to ask questions, to be vulnerable and honest, so that those we empower are able to build their confidence and skills for a better future.
For the past 30 years, South Central LAMP has had the privilege of being part of the educational and self-discovery journey of many. It has been an honor to serve our community and see our mission and values contribute to the lives of the women and children of South Central Los Angeles.
Sincerely,
Diana Pinto
Executive Director
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Diana Pinto Honored with a JUNTOS Award |
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This week, our beloved Executive Director, Diana Pinto, was honored, along with 11 other exceptional individuals, by Northgate González Markets with a JUNTOS Award. Northgate is California's premier Mexican-themed grocery store, and the JUNTOS Awards celebrate the spirit of generosity and unwavering commitment to Latino communities during Hispanic Heritage Month. JUNTOS means “together,” and Diana, who shared this honor with her mother, said she knew what it meant immediately, since it's in her native language.
“I am so grateful to Northgate González Markets for this honor and donation to South Central LAMP,” said Diana. “These funds will go a long way with our families, as we will be using the gift to purchase basic necessities - such as diapers, wipes, laundry detergent, etc. - all of the everyday items that add up quickly! For those we serve in South Central Los Angeles, this support means not having to choose between diapers, medicine, or a doctor's visit. I am beyond thankful to Northgate for the JUNTOS Award.”
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Adult Education Program Update |
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It was so delightful for the Adult Education Department to warmly welcome families back to South Central LAMP in late August. Our Welcome Back Event marked the start of the new year for the Family Literacy Program, where each mother received back-to-school supplies and a backpack. Additionally, mothers crafted vision boards, outlining the goals they aspired to achieve during this academic year.
In September, we joyfully commemorated International Literacy Day, specially dedicated to the mothers in our program. The month was filled with exciting activities, including literary workshops on storytelling, the unveiling of a multilingual library, and the initiation of the Literacy Journey Challenge. The challenge was designed to empower mothers in their literacy endeavors, with certificates awarded to recognize their progress along the way.
We look forward to sharing in the educational journey ahead and witnessing the remarkable progress of our students and their families. Stay tuned for more exciting updates and events throughout the year!
Jessie Hernandez
Adult Education and Program Manager
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Children's Education Program Update |
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The Children’s Education Program started the school year with the Creative Curriculum, which builds children’s confidence, creativity, and critical thinking skills.
Parent & Child Literacy Activities Classes (PCILA) kicked off with I Love You Rituals. The objective of these rituals is to learn that saying “I love you” strengthens the bond between adults and children. Studies show that it insulates children from drugs, violence, and peer pressure, laying the foundation for mental and emotional health.
Samira Alvarez
Children’s Education and Program Manager
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Upcoming Volunteer Opportunities |
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Stay tuned for more information on our Thanksgiving Food and Holiday Toy Drives! |
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It's not too late to purchase Teacher Wish List items! |
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During our 30th Anniversary Celebration, we highlighted Wish List items that would be helpful for our teachers and the children in their classrooms. The wish lists were a huge hit, and we have a few items still available!
From easy-clean mats for our Infant Room; to a dress-up center for the Toddlers; to a giant treehouse for our Pre-K Room and draw and write journals for our EXPL Afterschool Program; there's something for all our classrooms still available on our Teacher Wish Lists!
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Support South Central LAMP on ShopRaise!
South Central LAMP is partnering with ShopRaise, a simple way to turn your everyday shopping at over 1,000 retailers into support for our many programs, and an easy way for you to make philanthropy part of your online purchases. From groceries and apparel to technology and travel, a percentage of everything you buy will support South Central LAMP! The best thing is, it's free! Click the button below to join ShopRaise, then select the South Central Los Angeles Ministry Project, Inc. Thank you for continuing to help make a difference in the lives of women and children in South Central Los Angeles!
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Please Note: Our NEW Mailing Address
As of July 1, 2023, when mailing to the South Central LAMP,
please address your letter to:
South Central LAMP
P.O. Box 11336
Los Angeles, CA 90011
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Stay Connected with South Central LAMP!
For more information on ways to support South Central LAMP, please contact our
Development Director, Nicole Burcham, at nburcham@southcentrallamp.org,
visit our website, or follow us on social media to learn more about our programs.
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