CRM - Empowering Leaders

Neighborhood Sketch:

InnerCHANGE, LA is located in the Pico-Union/Westlake Neighborhood, just 3 miles west of downtown and 4 miles east of Hollywood.  As you walk the streets you will encounter smells of irresistible tacos and burritos as well as see neighbors hanging out with one another as the day passes by.  This community is primarily comprised of latin immigrants from Mexico and Central America who are working hard to make a better life for themselves and their families.  Most of our neighbors find themselves among the poor working class, living in singles or one room apartments with entire families. 

What we’re up to:

InnerCHANGE has been in this community since 1987, living among the people and building relationships.  Our focus is building relationships to encourage individuals and families as they adjust to a new environment, find out who they are and ask questions about life and God. 

In particular, our team has formed friendships with the next generation, the children of immigrant parents.  We have been able to walk alongside them and mentor them in educational needs and spiritual development.  This takes place in organized weekly tutoring sessions, a program called the Mentoring Initiative, informal conversations and one-on-one times together.  Many of these youth are now young adults attending college and taking leadership roles in the community. 

The team is also becoming more and more involved at the structural level of the community as we join neighborhood councils, grappling with the effects of gentrification.  We do this alongside our neighbors as they take a stand and raise their voices to create a better community.