Heart of Los Angeles (HOLA) supports a middle school to college access pipeline that provides vulnerable youth with exceptional and individualized academic support, rigorous college access resources, near-peer and adult mentorship, transitions programming, socioemotional supports, leadership development and most importantly, a safe and supportive environment that offers an alternative to gang involvement and crime.
These students live in Los Angeles’ Rampart District and MacArthur Park/Westlake area and are attending more than 50 local schools, many of which lack the resources to provide individualized and holistic support systems for those students with the greatest need. HOLA seeks to bolster its impact through hiring of key programmatic staff positions including an Academic and Enrichment Coordinator, Scholarship Administrator and additional Academic Tutor.
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"My grades have improved a lot and my self-esteem is also higher since I came to HOLA. The staff motivates me to try new things and help me get out of my comfort zone. They look for opportunities that will benefit me."
Isabel, HOLA Class of 2021
“For families who otherwise lack access to high-quality resources, HOLA's Bridges and College Success programs are giving kids what they need to envision themselves in higher education and pursue those dreams. Our partnership with Ready to Rise is giving these kids a chance to be successful. This grant means everything to all of us at the Heart of Los Angeles.”
Tony Brown - Executive Director