About us

We Give LA: Empowering Foster Youth 

Mission: 

We Give LA is dedicated to empowering youth in foster care as they age out of the system, providing them with the skills, support, and opportunities needed to succeed in life. Our programs emphasize the principles of honesty, integrity, character, and innovation, helping foster youth become independent and productive citizens. 

The Need: 

Every year, over 23,000 foster children age out of the U.S. foster care system, many without the necessary skills or support to thrive. Statistics show that 20% of these youth will become homeless, only 50% will find employment by age 24, and less than 3% will earn a college degree. The foster care system, intended as a temporary solution, often leaves youth unprepared for the challenges of adulthood. 

Our Solution: 

We Give LA focuses on supporting foster youth aged 16 to 25 by: 

●  Skill Development: Offering programs that teach life skills, vocational training, and entrepreneurship, preparing foster youth for employment and self-sufficiency. 
●  Partnerships: Collaborating with local businesses to provide internships, employment opportunities, and real-world experiences. 
●  Community Engagement: Hosting events and workshops that connect foster youth with mentors, industry professionals, and caring community members. 

Current Successe 
●  Sushi Musubi Con: A chef training event that introduced 15 foster youth to the culinary arts, with several expressing a desire to pursue a career as chefs. 
●  Monster Musubi Pop-Up Restaurant: A successful fundraiser at the San Diego Holo Holo Hawaiian Reggae Festival, where foster youth gained hands-on experience in the food service industry. Click HERE for a short video of the event. 
● Handbag Designer Lab: A workshop where foster teens learned the entire process of handbag design and production, leading to employment opportunities for some participants. Click HERE for a short video of the class. 

Upcoming Initiative 

How You Can Help 

We Give LA relies on the generosity of individual and corporate donors, as well as dedicated volunteers, to sustain and expand our programs. Your support can make a direct impact on the lives of foster youth by: 

●  Donating: Financial contributions support our programs, events, and the development of new initiatives. In-kind donations of supplies and equipment are also welcome. 
●  Volunteering: Volunteers can share their time, skills, and expertise by mentoring foster youth, assisting at events, or providing professional services. 
●  Corporate Partnerships: Businesses can partner with We Give LA by offering internships, employment opportunities, sponsorships, or donations. 

Join Us 

By supporting We Give LA, you are helping to create a brighter future for foster youth in Los Angeles and beyond. Together, we can provide the tools, opportunities, and encouragement these young people need to reach their full potential. 

For more information or to get involved, please contact us at:
Email: [email protected].
Phone: 818.425.9812
Thank you for considering a partnership with We Give LA. Your support can change lives.