Who We Are

Inspiring youth to lead with passion and purpose

East LA Rising has been nurturing young leaders since 1950. We equip youth with the skills, confidence, and support they need to pursue their passions, drive positive change in their neighborhoods, and build futures filled with purpose. Every program we deliver is rooted in our commitment to see all young people thrive.

Our Mission

East LA Rising inspires youth to lead with passion and purpose, equipping them to create positive change in their communities.

For over 75 years, we have been dedicated to supporting young people in East LA with programs that build confidence, develop leadership skills, and foster academic success. We create safe spaces where youth discover their potential, connect with mentors, and gain the tools they need to shape their own futures. Every program we offer is designed to ignite purpose and empower the next generation of community leaders.

Our Vision

All youth equipped to lead lives of purpose

We envision a world where young people in East Los Angeles are supported, inspired, and equipped to lead lives driven by purpose-creating positive change in their communities and confidently shaping their own futures. A future where youth have access to mentorship, skill-building, and opportunity regardless of circumstance.

That future is within reach when organizations commit to long-term investment in young leaders, and when young people themselves are recognized as agents of change in their own neighborhoods. That is the work East LA Rising exists to advance-inspiring youth to lead with passion and purpose.

Our Mission

Inspiring youth to lead with passion and purpose

Role One

Youth Development

We provide young people in East Los Angeles with safe spaces, mentorship, and programs that build confidence and skills. Our approach focuses on the whole person-academic support, character development, and leadership training that prepares youth to thrive.

  • After-school and summer programs for youth of all abilities.
  • Academic tutoring and college preparation support.
  • Leadership training and civic engagement opportunities.
  • Safe, welcoming spaces where youth belong and are valued.
Role Two

Community Impact

For 76 years, we've been part of East LA's fabric-building relationships, strengthening neighborhoods, and creating pathways for youth to become agents of positive change in their own communities and beyond.

  • Community partnerships that extend our reach and impact.
  • Youth-led initiatives that address local needs and challenges.
  • Family and parent engagement programs that strengthen support systems.
  • Outcomes tracking that shows how youth are shaping their futures.
Governance

Independent, transparent, accountable to the community

East LA Rising is a board-governed 501(c)(3) public charity. We hold ourselves to the same standards of integrity and openness that guide our work with youth, because the trust placed in us by families, donors, and our community is the foundation of everything we do.

  • Independent Board of DirectorsMajority-independent directors with term limits and full fiduciary responsibility for our youth-centered mission and financial stewardship.
  • Annual audited financialsIndependent audit and Form 990 published openly each year, ensuring transparent use of every dollar dedicated to youth development.
  • Youth & Family VoiceYoung people and families we serve advise on program priorities, ensuring our work reflects the needs and aspirations of East LA.
  • Public impact reportingAnnual impact reports, program outcomes, and youth success stories shared with funders, partners, and the community.
Work With Us

Partner with East LA Rising

Since 1950, we've been inspiring youth in East Los Angeles to lead with passion and purpose. Whether you're a foundation, nonprofit partner, community leader, or individual supporter, we invite you to join us in equipping young people to create positive change in their neighborhoods and shape their own futures.