The Ireicho National Tour Launches In Washington Dc At National Archives And The Smithsonian’s National Museum Of American History February 18–21, 2025 Page 16
February 2025 ALL RISE Mini-Grant Recipients Announced Page 18
“The Forgotten History Of The Filipino Farm Center” Has Returned And Will Be On View In The Helen Weber Kennedy Gallery Through Memorial Day Weekend. Page 19
California Assembly Honors Dr. Leroy Morishita For Over 40 Years Of Service To CSU Page 20
CV Asian Chamber 25th Anniversary Dinner & Board Installation
Page 21
City Wide Property Services Celebrates 25 Years Of Excellence In Property Maintenance Page 22
The Global Chief Happiness Officer Launches a New Community on Happiness Day on March 20th, 2025 Page 22
HERE'S HOW TO HELP WILDFIRE VICTIMS Page 24
THE APA LIVING TODAY
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Deadline to submit newsworthy information from non-profits, charitable organizations, or other sources is the 19th of each month for the following issue. Submitting information does not guarantee it will be featured. Submit information to: jtc.publicist@gmail.com • Attn: Jim Chong
The APALT is digitally published bi-monthly by the APA Living Today. APALT does not assume responsibility for the authenticity or accuracy of news materials furnished for publication.
We are here! It is 2025 and history is in the making. So many things have transpired over this past year. We have new leadership in our country, we have AI coming into play like never before, and we have things that are innovating how we do things. Change is all around us constantly. I heard a statement that has always resonated with me…” If you aren’t growing, you are dying.”
Change is inevitable.
This publication also has its roots in the APA News & Review that was created by founder Dennis Lee. I remember working with him over the past several years with the focus on making contacts and connections and the theme of “You Are The Solution” being one of the first articles I wrote for the publication. I appreciate the tenacity of Dennis in getting his publication out to support his community. He has been a great example to me in terms of connecting people and I have learned so much from him over the years we worked together. The key for me is that statement I like to remember to never forget where I come from.
As we evolve, the APA Living Today will cover new grounds and innovations that will help us be able to grow the visibility, influence, and connections in order to reach more people with the focus on changing more lives. Having acquired this publication a couple of years ago, I have read so many stories that have truly enriched my life personally and am constantly getting positive feedback from others in terms of the stories and content contributors. My goal is that this will be a hub and instrumental in creating positive change and action to the various communities we touch.
I will be personally reaching out to some of the key contributors with the focus on creating new “WIN-WIN” scenarios with our partners, affiliates and contributors to see how we can maximize our visibility and impact to our readers, businesses, advertisers, and others that help produce this key resource and hub about the Asian Pacific American communities.
I would be remiss to not mention my key producer of this publication Layne Imada who has been my advisor, creator, and most importantly friend in this process. Layne is very instrumental in helping businesses flourish through his production and management of the brand and messaging of his clients.
Enjoy the many stories, articles, and contents that are in these digital pages.
- Jim
The opinions expressed by contributing writers and sources are their own and do not reflect the opinions of the newspaper’s owners, editor or staff.
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While we most directly address the concerns of Asian Pacific Americans, our publication is not a racial or ethnic sorting. It is a gathering of all those who wish to gather.
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TAKE CENTER STAGE
By Jim T. Chong the WokStar & LegendMaker
“We can tell what is most important to us by looking at two primary things…our Calendar and our Checkbook.”
This statement is very true. However, as time progresses, it too needs a bit of modification with the passing of time. The physical “Calendars” and “Checkbook” are now for the most part replaced with our virtual planners on smartphones and computers as well as our virtual financial accounts.
Looking into the future, we all have opportunities that give us choices to consider what is really most important to us. Using our planners and assets as a reference point, the decisions we make tell us what is most important to us.
This past year has been a year of prepping and decisions to set me up with decisions I make today. Evaluating the things that I am focused on, I see the things that mean the most to me. As I cross over to the second half of my life, I see myself wanting more and more to really leave a mark, bringing me back to my focus on Legacy. This next year is about helping me understand what I want to be remembered for, as well as planning for that “R” word.
Some great examples for me have been Edwin Edebiri, the Global Happiness Officer, Jennifer Murphy, the “GoGirl”, an influencer and entertainer who had launched the song “I Want To Be Neenja” that went viral, Samira Kazemeni, the founder of the Legacy Gala, Lenny Herron, founder of Backstage Celebrity Events and the VIP and Merchandising Specialist for Celebrity Entertainers, as well as Raven Hernandez, an original tour band member of Redbone who sang the iconic song “Come And Get Your Love.
The key to being able to maximize your influence is to be able to somehow bring all that you are involved in together. There are many reasons why this is true…and there are many unique challenges in doing so. In a future article, I will address these, but one thing that I am excited about is the culmination of what I believe is my last hoo-raw… Center Stage International which is a non-profit dedicated to being a hub for other entities. With the help of Leo Lev, founder of CoverStory.com and a non-profit expert and person who established Center Stage International for me, I was able to accomplish this in a couple of months after making the decision.
With this non-profit established, I look forward to using Center Stage International as a hub to bring the things I am involved in together. We already have a Golf Tournament established for May 19th originated by Linn Chinnapongse and Khou Stansfield. The key I am learning through my lifetime is the popular phrase from A Field Of Dreams… “If you build it, they will come.” I am excited to live my passion by truly supporting others not by doing the work, but by creating “platforms” for people to work with that help them accomplish their goals. This made me realize the significance of another famous quote by Zig Ziglar…” You can get what you want if you help enough people get what they want.”
My hope is that this article prompts you to consider what is most important to you and how to potentially 10X what you want to achieve and TAKE CENTER STAGE. My desire is that it inspires you to do more, do it faster, and create your legacy to tell your story how you want it to be told. Decide to Take Center Stage in your life to have the influence and impact you deserve.
Your Resource to create YOUR story.
For More Information, Contact: JIm T. Chong the Wok Star (JimTChong.com)
PR, Media, Entertainment
Email: jtc.legendmaker@gmail.com
Text / Phone: (279) 999-6363
Are you interested in helping us share about your culture or community? We want to hear from you. Contact Jim at (916) 747-9366 or jtc.legendmaker@gmail.com
Jim T. Chong
Taking Center Stage...The Wok Star with Rock Stars...Ambrosia, Walter Egan ("Magnet And Steel"), John Ford Coley ("I'd Really Love To See You Tonight"/"Love Is The Answer"), Elliot Lurie (Looking Glass "Brandy(Your A Fine Girl))", Peter Beckett (Players "Baby Come Back")
CENTER STAGE SPOTLIGHT on SAMIRA KAZEMENI
founder of the Legacy Gala and Samira’s Network
Source reproduced from LuxuryGala.com
Internationally renowned producer and award-winning television host, Samira Kazemeni is the president of Samira’s Network. She has produced over 300 upscale events. Samira is the visionary mind behind Luxury Gala, a lavish and unparalleled award night, regarded as Hollywood’s largest and most popular Oscar® Screening event available to the public.
Samira was born in Tehran, Iran, where she lived until the age of seven. She and her family moved to Japan for one year and then settled in Bangkok, Thailand where she spent most of her childhood before moving to United States to pursue her college degree. She graduated with a BA in International Marketing and Business Administration at Loyola Marymount University in Los Angeles.
Samira went on to become the creator and founder of her company: Samira’s Network and Luxury Gala. Samira’s Network is a total solution consulting firm, providing marketing, sales and public relations solutions for individuals and organizations in any level professionally. Samira’s Network is also an award-winning international television network, hosted and produced by the multi-faceted crowned beauty queen and jewelry designer. Samira’s Network television shows are produced and broadcast in Los Angeles, California, the entertainment, TV & film capital of the world. Her TV shows are entertaining, educational, informative and family-friendly. Her programs feature impressive celebrity & royalty guest’ interviews, the latest in technology, health & beauty products, fashion shows, live cooking demonstrations, news, and of course, up to the minute coverage of Hollywood’s red carpet and charity events.
Samira’s Network’s main goal is to educate, guide, encourage and empower her audience to reach their full potential and highest level of positive living, thus making a difference in the lives of all TV viewers. Samira’s life was turned upside down, when, in 2018, she was diagnosed with a rare form of cancer (AngioSarcoma) Samira then turned her focus on an alternative treatment that would help alleviate her symptoms. Samira was fortunate that surgery was effective in tackling the issue. However, she still needs medical care in order to keep the cancer in remission. Samira has found that the use of using Ultra CBD products was beneficial in her treatment and felt compelled to share and promote the benefits of these products in order to help others with similar ailments.
She will be holding her annual Luxury Gala 2025 event at the Hilton near Hollywood in Universal City which is anticipated to be 1,000+ this year in attendance.
Samira is an extremely established individual that is dedicated to helping others achieve their dreams and ambitions. She is an individual that is an exemplary example for others in terms of how to really have an impact by helping bring people together strategically.
For more information about Samira and her Luxury Gala event, visit SamirasNetwork.com or LuxuryGala.com.
Pictures from past Luxury Gala Events
Pictures from past Luxury Gala Events
Samira Kazemeni
The Wealth of Wisdom: How Writing a Family Legacy Book Creates Generational Impact
By Dr. Jesse Bowen, Founder of Elite Publications
Bowen
Have you ever wished you knew more about your grandparents? Or even their parents? What were their life experiences? What struggles did they overcome? What values shaped their lives and, ultimately, yours? This deep yearning for connection to our past is why genealogy and ancestry research are among the most searched topics on the internet. People want to know: Where did I come from?
While historical records and DNA tests can reveal some of our roots, nothing preserves a family’s history like a Family Legacy Book. This unique book goes beyond names and dates—it captures the heart and soul of a family's journey. By writing your own family legacy book, you leave behind more than memories; you create a powerful generational impact that will inspire, educate, and strengthen future generations.
Five Reasons to Publish Your Own Family Legacy Book
1. Preserve Your Family’s History in Your Own Words
If you don’t tell your family’s story, who will? Oral traditions fade, and memories can be lost. A legacy book ensures that your family’s experiences, values, and defining moments are recorded accurately and passed down for generations
2. Strengthen Family Bonds
Gathering and documenting family stories fosters deeper connections. As relatives share memories and insights, they often discover common values, untold stories, and new appreciation for their shared history. It unites family members, both young and old, around a common heritage.
3. Create a Roadmap for Future Generations
Your life experiences and lessons learned can guide future generations in navigating their own challenges. Sharing stories of resilience, triumphs, and even failures can offer wisdom that helps younger family members make informed life decisions.
4. Establish a Lasting Legacy
A family legacy book is more than a collection of stories—it’s a historical document that becomes part of your family’s identity. It’s something tangible that greatgrandchildren and beyond can hold, read, and cherish long after the original storytellers are gone.
5. Gain Recognition and Historical Preservation
Publishing a family legacy book isn’t just a personal achievement; it can also contribute to historical and cultural preservation. With the help of a professional publisher like Elite Publications, your book can even be placed into the Library of Congress, ensuring its availability for future researchers and historians.
How Elite Publications Can Help You Publish Your Family Legacy Book
Writing a book can be a daunting task, but you don’t have to do it alone. Elite Publications, a leading publishing company specializing in legacy books, offers expert guidance to help you bring your family’s story to life. Their services include:
• Professional editing and formatting to ensure your book is polished and wellstructured.
• Custom book design and layout that reflects your family’s unique identity.
• High-quality printing and digital publishing for accessibility in multiple formats.
• Marketing and distribution support to help share your story with a broader audience.
• Library of Congress registration, securing your family’s history as part of the national archives.
Start Your Family Legacy Today
Your family’s story is priceless, but it needs to be told. By publishing a family legacy book, you create a timeless gift for your descendants, offering them a source of wisdom, inspiration, and identity. Don’t wait until the stories are lost—start documenting your legacy today with Elite Publications and make your family’s history an enduring treasure.
To learn more about publishing your family legacy book, visit www.elitepublications.org/contact to schedule a FREE author success coaching session.
Jessie
Elite Publications
Dr. Jessie Bowen, Founder Elite Publications & AMAA
Are you ready to write your story? Contact us! For more information, visit www.ElitePublications.org or calI/text (919) 618-8075
Proceeds will go towards the fight against breast cancer, as well as supporting a greater good. Center Stage International is a registered 50c3 non-profit organization. Scan the QR code for more information.
Dr. Leanne Lee and Dr. Derron Lee: Expanding Our Vision
By Caitlin Hamer
Photos by Ann Ishii Photography & Angie Lane Photography
Source: HERLIFE Magazine
February 2025
For many people, any medical appointment can trigger feelings of fear, apprehension or dread. However, Dr. Leanne Lee and Dr. Derron Lee of Midtown Optometry are working to completely change that. You may even find yourself looking forward to your visits with them.
There are quite a few layers to the success of this husband-and-wife team of optometrists. They’ve cultivated a welcoming environment in their practice, which of course is due in large part to the level of care they offer; both Derron and Leanne are winners of the California’s Young Optometrist of the Year Award in 2008 and 2009, respectively. However, it’s also because the office itself is, as Leanne says, kind of like a living room. Part of that is because they and their staff are truly kind people (check out their glowing Yelp reviews). You can also chalk it up to their office being filled with arcade video games and Star Wars, Marvel comics and Transformers memorabilia. “People are surprised we have such personalities for eye doctors,” Leanne added.
They’ve got personality in spades. The pair, both raised in Stockton, high school sweethearts who got together when they were at Tokay High School, clearly love what they do, and they see it as more than a job. “We treat patients as people first,” said Leanne.
Midtown Optometry offers state-of-the-art technology, primary care eye exams, contact lenses and glasses, dry eye management and a vision development center that encompasses a variety of treatments and therapies. The vision development center offers neuro-rehabilitation to treat vision problems resulting from concussions, as well as vision therapy, which specializes in diagnosing and treating vision disorders that interfere with reading, learning and other daily activities.
THEIR TRAJECTORY
When asked how the pair chose optometry as their career path, Leanne responded first. “I chose it and he rode my coattails,” she said with a laugh. And Derron wholeheartedly concurs with her statement. “Both of us went to UC Davis for undergrad. She did psychology and I did neurophysiology. We both interned for a lot of different healthcare professionals, but Leanne interned at a vision center, and then I decided to do it, too.”
Leanne added that this particular internship was quite helpful in determining her future path. “When we did all those medical internships, I asked all the doctors, ‘Knowing what you know now, would you do this again?’” The only doctor who said yes was the doctor at the vision center. “It’s a great profession to be in,” she affirmed. “Especially for women. You can have a family and a career.”
As a lover of both technology and healthcare, Derron found optometry and all its tools particularly interesting. But he still wasn’t quite set on becoming an optometrist; in fact, he was considering a career in tech or at a startup. But Leanne wanted to go to New York to study optometry, and next thing they knew, they were sitting through a joint interview for an optometry program. They threw themselves into their studies to prepare for the entrance exam. Both passed with flying colors, scoring in the 99th percentile, and then they were off to State University of New York’s College of Optometry. Once they finished, the decision to return to Stockton and set up a practice there was a no-brainer, and they opened Midtown Optometry in 2007.
Dr. Leanne Lee and Dr. Derron Lee
HEALTH & WELLNESS
“I get to work with my best friend right next to me,” said Derron. “She’s in the trenches with me. She knows my triumphs and trials and tribulations. We’ve been doing this for so long that she knows what I’m thinking.”
PATIENT CARE AND PHILANTHROPY
Leanne loves that in having this practice, she really gets to know her patients on a personal level. “It’s just kind of cool seeing the families grow up over time,” she noted. “Plus, it’s a nice profession to be in. On the neuro rehab side, you get to take these people who are struggling, and you help transform their lives so they can succeed. In many cases, we’ve changed their trajectory.”
But their life-changing work doesn’t stop there. Midtown Optometry is also deeply involved in giving back to the community, with one of their biggest endeavors being their annual Giving Tree. In 2025, they will celebrate the tenth year for this Christmastime tradition, which is a charitable partnership with the Children’s Home of Stockton. “The kids make ornaments and attach a wish list for three items they want for Christmas,” explained Derron. “We found that most of these kids are teens, in between foster homes and about to transition out of the system, and those are the kids that are often forgotten.” The ornaments are sponsored by their patients, and the Giving Tree is now so successful that within a day of announcing that the tree is ready, the ornaments are sponsored immediately.
The business has also sponsored a number of local events, such as the Orange and Black Ball at University of the Pacific, the American Cancer Society Moonlight Gala and plenty more. Derron has also volunteered at St. Mary’s Interfaith Community Center as the eye clinic physician, and both he and Leanne have provided free eye care and eyeglasses for the United Farm Workers Association. The list of good deeds goes on and on; at the end of the day, the Lees are enthusiastic about supporting the community that has supported them and their business.
VISION EDUCATION MATTERS
Beyond their regular appointments, the doctors also undertake extensive educational work, particularly teaching parents and school professionals how to
look for the signs of learning-related vision problems. Vision disorders can interfere with learning and reading, and it goes beyond nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism. “At vision screenings at schools and at pediatricians’ offices, only about 5 percent of vision problems are caught,” explains Derron. “A lot of parents think 20/20 is perfect vision. But 20/20 isn’t everything; there’s a critical link between vision and learning.”
That dedication to educating is also evident in how they proceed as doctors. “My philosophy is to show them what’s going on, not just tell them,” shared Derron. “I want them to have a full understanding, to show them what we can do to help. It makes it easier for my optical team to help fulfill prescriptions based on exam findings, lifestyle needs and function.” This brings us to an important subject: eyewear. If you think you just need one pair of glasses for everything, think again. Derron suggests a pair for career use (with blue light-blocking lenses), an active pair, an everyday pair and polarized sunglasses, because too much sunlight can lead to the development of cataracts. If you’re a contact lens wearer, Derron warns patients of contact lens overuse; he prescribes daily disposable contacts as the healthiest option. However, the healthiest thing of all is to keep up with your regular eye exams. “If there are any problems, early detection is best,” related Leanne.
If you ever run into the Drs. Lee while out and about in Stockton, don’t be surprised; they’re just as active about embracing local businesses as they are nonprofits. Follow them on Midtown Optometry on Instagram, and you might find out what their favorite restaurants are, as they love to support the local food scene. They were also one of the founding 50 season ticket holders for the Stockton Kings. “I see so much good in Stockton, and so much potential,” affirmed Derron. If you need help seeing that, maybe a visit to Midtown Optometry will expand your vision.
Contact: Carrie Sass or Anna Sass
Email: carrie@herlifemagazine.com or anna@herlifemagazine.com
A new data brief by UCLA researchers and AAPI Equity Alliance illustrates the significant language barriers facing Asian American communities, particularly those with limited English proficiency (LEP), who reside in fire evacuation zones during the Los Angeles wildfires.
These barriers can hinder access to critical emergency notifications, which are essential for timely evacuations and ensuring safety during wildfires, and crucial communication during the recovery and rebuilding process. In addition, reaching LEP Asian communities is especially challenging because they speak dozens of different languages.
AAPI Equity Alliance joins UCLA Asian American Studies Center, UCLA Center for Neighborhood Knowledge, and UCLA Latino Policy & Politics Institute in calling for improvements to language access for disaster communications.
KEY FINDINGS
Figure 4 highlights the locations of the four major fire evacuation zones in the county. The evacuation zones for the Palisades, Eaton, and Hurst fires are based on data as of January 8, 2025, while those for the Hughes fire are based on data as of January 23, 2025, as it started much later than the other three.
Finding 1: Nearly 50,000 Asian Americans reside within the evacuation zones, with over 12,000 needing language assistance due to limited English proficiency (LEP).
Nearly 50,000 Asian Americans live within the four major evacuation zones, making up 15% of the total population in these areas. The majority—close to 39,000 individuals— reside in the Eaton evacuation zone, where they account for nearly one-fifth (18%) of all residents. The proportion of Asian Americans varies across the other zones, as shown in Figure 5.
Over 12,000 Asian individuals aged 5 and older in the combined evacuation zones have limited English proficiency, representing over a quarter (26%) of the Asian population in these areas. However, LEP individuals are not evenly distributed across the evacuation zones. As illustrated in Figure 6, variations by location are evident: the Palisades zone has the highest proportion of LEP Asians, approaching 30%, while the Eaton zone also has a significant LEP population, with over a quarter of its Asian residents classified as LEP.
Finding 2: The most commonly spoken Asian languages in the combined evacuation zones are Chinese, Korean, Tagalog, and Vietnamese. However, dozens of other Asian languages are also represented and vary by evacuation zone.
Census data indicate that the most commonly spoken Asian languages in the combined evacuation zones are Chinese, Korean, Tagalog, and Vietnamese, as shown in Table 1. However, dozens of other Asian languages are also represented and vary by evacuation zone. Unfortunately, census-tract data on language are limited, as they only report on languages spoken by these four major Asian ethnic groups, consequently underreporting the linguistic diversity for all Asians. The available statistics fail to count the relatively smaller language groups, which are nonetheless still collectively sizeable.
School records on Asian English learners in elementary schools serving the evacuation zones provide additional insight into the broader range of language needs in these communities, identifying over a dozen different Asian languages spoken by students. Table 2 details the specific languages represented in these areas, including those reported with at least five elementary school students.
Finding 3: Older Asian Americans experience significantly higher rates of LEP compared to younger generations, with LEP rates ranging from 15% among those aged 5 to 24 to 61% among those 65 and older.
In addition to ethnic differences, LEP rates also vary by age group, as shown in Figure 3. Older Asian Americans experience significantly higher rates of LEP compared to younger generations, with LEP rates ranging from 15% among those aged 5 to 24 to 61% among
those 65 and older. This disparity is largely driven by generational differences, as younger Asian Americans are more likely to be U.S.-born and received education in the United States. Given these differences, outreach strategies during emergencies and recovery efforts should be tailored to meet the distinct needs of each age group, ensuring effective communication and support across generations.
RECOMMENDATIONS
1. Identify and Address Language Needs Proactively
• Conduct regular assessments to determine language assistance needs in fire evacuation zones.
• Use census, school data and community survey data to anticipate language barriers before disasters occur.
• Collaborate with researchers who have the necessary technical skills, expertise, and experience specific to Asian Americans communities to conduct detailed analyses.
2. Ensure Culturally and Linguistically Appropriate Communication
• Provide in-language emergency materials tailored to the linguistic needs of each affected community.
• Move beyond a one-size-fits-all approach by recognizing the distinct languages spoken in different neighborhoods.
3. Strengthen Partnerships with Community Organizations
• Collaborate with trusted, community-based organizations that serve limited-English proficient populations.
• Leverage these organizations’ existing relationships and expertise to improve outreach and emergency response.
4. Establish Community Oversight and Engagement Mechanisms
• Create citizen oversight groups in the most affected communities, including community leaders who can advocate for LEP residents.
• Organize and facilitate local discussions with residents, using Asian language translators, to identify barriers in disaster recovery, rebuilding, and resettlement.
5. Institutionalize Long-Term Improvements in Disaster Preparedness
• Implement multilingual alert systems and culturally relevant public service campaigns.
• Integrate language access planning into broader emergency response frameworks to ensure sustainability.
Filipina Assemblymember Caloza leads community swearing-in, files disasterrelated bills
Donnabelle Gatdula-Arevalo
January 31, 2025
Asian Journal News
The Filipino-American Community Newspaper Since 1991
[LOS ANGELES] – Assemblymember Jessica Caloza, the very first Filipina to serve in the California state Legislature, has filed her first two bills aimed at providing relief amidst the recent fires in Southern California.
In a speech during her recent community swearing-in ceremony held at Los Angeles River Center & Gardens on Sunday, January 26, Caloza said she introduced Assembly Bill 262, the California Individual Assistance Act, which would provide direct cash assistance to individuals and families to cover essential needs during a disaster like food, housing, and transportation.
Another bill she introduced, Assembly Bill 265, the Small Business Recovery Fund Act, would help small businesses and nonprofits receive emergency funding during a disaster.
“Small businesses and non-profits anchor our communities and they too, have been deeply impacted by the wildfires. Now is our time to help them,” Caloza said.
In an interview with the Asian Journal, Caloza said she would want to urge the Filipino American community to remain vigilant and always work together for the common good.
“For the Filipino American community, I hope you know that you are powerful,” the assemblymember said. “Your voice is represented in Sacramento, she assured.
She said all those Filipino Americans affected by the recent wildfires could count on her for help. “We are here to help you. Please reach out to me and my team, we are here at your service,” she said.
While emphasizing the importance of being able to provide fast and efficient public service, especially during difficult times, Caloza likewise expressed great appreciation to all those who dedicated time and effort during the crisis.
“To our first responders — our firefighters, public safety officials, and public works teams —thank you for your service, sacrifice, and commitment to protecting all of us. Thank you also to the countless workers who are uplifting our communities during this difficult time—our teachers, healthcare workers, childcare providers, education workers, custodians, public transportation workers, and so many more,” Caloza said.
“On the second day of the fires, my team and I were fielding calls, emails, and requests from all over the district from residents who needed help. Robert, a resident in Highland Park, was so kind and helped us deliver almost 40 cases of water to seniors who desperately needed it,” she recalled. Those seniors who were able to receive help were present during the swearing-in ceremony She also commended the college students from UCLA and Occidental College who were helping deliver food to frontline workers.
“I saw small businesses that were already struggling before the fires, continue to dig deep and donate hot meals to shelters even though they were the ones who needed help,” she added.
Addressing hundreds of supporters, dignitaries, community leaders, and special guests who attended the swearing-in ceremony, Caloza said, “These stories…they bind us and they are powerful. These last few weeks, we witnessed so much humanity and kindness that we were all literally willing to give the shirt off our backs to our neighbors and perfect strangers.”
She said, “I’ve dedicated my life to this work and to public service because simply put, I believe in the power of government and how it can transform lives when it works. That’s what it did for my family. I believe it works best when our government is grounded with everyday people, with the community. That’s what my parents, Gigi and, taught me—to care deeply, to fight hard to protect your values, and work even harder to pay it forward to others because it’s the right thing to do. This is the spirit I witnessed during the wildfires.”
California state Assemblymember Jessica Caloza addresses a packed crowd of elected officials, community leaders and constituents during her community swearingin on Sunday, January 26
TRAILBLAZERS
California state Assemblymember Jessica Caloza of District 52 took the oath of office administered by Assembly Speaker Robert Rivas during a community swearing-in ceremony at the Los Angeles River Center and Gardens on Sunday, January 26. Caloza, an immigrant and lifelong public servant who was elected in November 2024, is the first Filipina American to serve in the California state Legislature. Photo courtesy of the Office of Assemblymember Jessica Caloza
She also called for unity in the community. “That’s the Los Angeles I am fighting for and that I believe in. Beyond labels. Beyond political parties. Democrat. Republican. Progressive. Moderate. Conservative. None of that mattered during this crisis because when faced with life or death decisions, we picked life. We picked each other. We picked community. Because we have so much more in common than what divides us.”
According to Caloza, she is grateful that similar efforts to help disaster victims are also being carried out on a larger scale.
“This was not just true in the community but also at the State Capitol. That’s why I’m so excited that my colleagues under the leadership of Speaker Robert Rivas and our Budget Chair Jesse Chair secured bipartisan support to pass a $2.5 billion dollar relief bill to provide emergency aid to help our communities rebuild, especially our neighbors in Altadena, Pasadena, and Pacific Palisades,” she noted. Rivas administered Caloza’s ceremonial community oath of office.
Aside from the two new bills she introduced, Caloza said she is also committed to passing more expedient bills in the near term that would address the needs of her constituents. “These (two) bills are just the beginning. In the coming weeks, I will be introducing new legislation to address the ongoing needs of our district,” she added.
“I’ve talked to thousands of residents and people are ready for action and our community deserves solutions. Families want to live in affordable neighborhoods, not just for themselves but for their kids and their grandkids,” she said. “People want more housing—both homeowners and renters alike. Every person I’ve talked to wants us to treat homelessness like the crisis it is and we want our unhoused neighbors to get the help they desperately need.”
Among the issues she aims to focus on are those concerning the youth, the seniors, and the working class. “Young people want more open space, more parks, and clean air and clean water. Our seniors and Veterans want safe streets and better access to government services. Working class people just want to be able to live off of one paycheck, have a safe workplace, and go to sleep at night knowing their job is safe,” she said, noting that “I’ve listened to your stories. I want you to know that not only do I hear you and see you but I am committed to doing everything in my power to deliver real progress on these issues.”
“What you have is my commitment to representing you in the Assembly as someone who is going to work really hard for you,” said Caloza.
District 52 includes the southern portion of Glendale, Eagle Rock, Mt. Washington, Highland Park, Glassell Park, Silver Lake, Echo Park, Atwater Village, Lincoln Heights, Loz Feliz, East Hollywood, Cypress Park, Elysian Valley, Monterey Hills, Hermon, Montecito Heights, El Sereno and Unincorporated East Los Angeles. There are more than 13,000 Filipino Americans in this district.
During the swearing-in ceremony, Mountains Recreation Conservation Authority executive officer Joe Edmiston, who delivered the welcome remarks, commended Caloza for her vigorous efforts to providing assistance to the community during the crisis time.
“Thank you so much to our assemblymember who understands the needs of the community,” Edmiston said.
The ceremony also highlighted special remarks from LA County Board of Supervisors, Ist District Hilda Solis.
“We are witnessing history as Jessica Caloza becomes the first Filipina American to serve in the California State Legislature. And I hope more Filipinas and Filipinos follow her path and of course, not just for herm but for all women of colors… She is an example not just in our Filipino community but for all of us,” Solis said.
Solis encouraged young Filipina Americans to emulate Caloza and see her as an inspiration. “To our young Filipina girls here today, you have to look at Assemblymember Jessica Caloza, you could be like her. Jessica has paved the way for you so it is easier for you this time,” Solis said.
The event also included community testimonials from Foundation for Filipina Women’s Network founder and CEO Marily Mondejar; Armenian National Committee of America-Glendale Chapter chairperson Lucy Petrosian; East Los Tacos owner Erika Armenta; and Environmental Justice Leader Ceci Dominguez.
The Posting of Colors was led by Detachment 1347 Marine Corps while the Pledge of Allegiance was recited by Fil-Am student Zoe Zelenski and Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) students.
Tuesday, February 4, 2025 Media Relations - mediarelations@janm.org213.830.5690
Photo by: Tracy Kumono
The Ireichō National Tour Launches in Washington DC at National Archives and the Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History February 18–21, 2025
[Los Angeles] The Day of Remembrance (DOR) commemorates the signing of Executive Order 9066 on February 19, 1942, by President Franklin D. Roosevelt, which authorized the US military to remove persons of Japanese ancestry from the West Coast and set into motion their incarceration into America’s concentration camps during World War II. Each year on or around February 19, DOR events across the US tell stories, reflect on, and highlight the lessons of unjust incarceration to ensure that the American public not only learns from, but never forgets its past. The Japanese American National Museum (JANM) and The Irei Project will commemorate the Day of Remembrance in Washington, DC, by launching the national tour of The Ireichō at the National Archives on February 18, 2025, and at the Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History, February 19–21, 2025.
The Ireichō, a book of names, is the first comprehensive listing of persons of Japanese ancestry who were incarcerated in US Army, War Relocation Authority (WRA) concentration camps and other Department of Justice (DOJ) and Wartime Civil Control Administration (WCCA) incarceration sites. The National Archives holdings were key to researching the over 125,000 names included in the book. On Tuesday, February 18, 2025, from 6:30 p.m.–7:30 p.m. EST, Archivist of the United States, Dr. Colleen Shogan, will make opening remarks followed by Dr. Anthea M. Hartig, the Elizabeth MacMillan Director of the National Museum of American History, who will moderate the panel discussion The Ireichō: Day of Remembrance, at the National Archives. Speakers will be Ann Burroughs, President and CEO of JANM; Shirley Ann Higuchi, JD of the Heart Mountain Wyoming Foundation; and Dr. Duncan Ryuken Williams, Director of The Irei Project. Guests will have the rare opportunity to view the Ireichō and Executive Order 9066 as both will be on display for public viewing. The program is presented in partnership with JANM, The Irei Project, Japanese American Citizens League, JACL-DC Chapter, National Japanese American Memorial Foundation, National Archives Foundation, National Archives and Records
Administration, and the National Museum of American History. Admission to the event is free, and reservations are required. Reservations are available online at archivesfoundation.org.
From February 19–21, The National Museum of American History will host a commemorative event featuring the Ireichō. The Ireichō aims to provide a healing experience by inviting the public to place a small mark using a Japanese “hanko” stamp under the name of someone in the book who has not yet been acknowledged. The Ireichō will be available for stamping at the National Museum of American History from 1 p.m.–4 p.m. EST, February 19–21, 2025. Registration is required to stamp a name in the book.
During its installation at JANM in Los Angeles from October 2022–December 2024, 81,485 names in the Ireichō have been acknowledg ed. The twenty-month national tour will then continue to stops in Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Idaho, Texas, Utah, and Wyoming through July 2026. The tour is also part of JANM on the Go, a series of programs and exhibitions presented across California, the US, and beyond during the renovation of the Museum’s Pavilion in 2025 and 2026. At the close of the tour in August 2026, the Ireichō will be formally gifted by the Irei Project to JANM, where it will remain as part of JANM’s permanent collection and a lasting monument to the formidable strength of the Japanese American community.
“It has been incredibly moving to witness people from around the globe making personal pilgrimages to stamp names and find meaning and healing by interacting with the book. The Ireichō is a powerful monument to ensure that this history is never repeated. JANM is honored to work with our partners to bring this powerful experience to people and communities across the nation,” said Ann Burroughs, JANM President and CEO.
The Irei Project founder Duncan Ryuken Williams noted, “For the Ireichō national tour to begin in Washington DC alongside the original copy of the EO 9066 is our way to heal America’s racial karma. For each person in the book of names to encounter and transform the injustice represented by the executive order and the very sites of incarceration is a way for us to be a monument to this difficult moment in our nation’s history.”
“It is fitting that the Ireichō will begin its national tour in our nation’s capital. The National Archives is such a vital resource to understanding our community’s sometimes dark interactions with our government, highlighted by Executive Order 9066 which will be on display with the Ireichō at the event on the 18th. We are grateful to the National Museum of American History for providing the opportunity for the public to stamp the Ireichō and fully feel the gravity of the 125,000 names of those incarcerated because of the Alien Enemies Act and Executive Order 9066,” said David Inoue, JACL Executive Director.
ABOUT THE JAPANESE AMERICAN NATIONAL MUSEUM (JANM)
Established in 1985, JANM promotes understanding and appreciation of America’s ethnic and cultural diversity by sharing the Japanese American experience. Located in the historic Little Tokyo district of downtown Los Angeles, JANM is a center for civil rights, ensuring that the hard-fought lessons of the World War II incarceration are not forgotten. A Smithsonian Affiliate and one of America’s Cultural Treasures, JANM is a hybrid institution that straddles traditional museum categories. JANM is a center for the arts as well as history. It provides a voice for Japanese Americans and a forum that enables all people to explore their own heritage and culture. Since opening to the public in 1992, JANM has presented over one hundred exhibitions onsite while traveling forty exhibits to venues such as the Smithsonian Institution and the Ellis Island Museum in the United States, and to several leading cultural museums in Japan and South America. JANM’s Pavilion is closed for renovation; programs will continue on the JANM campus, throughout Little Tokyo, Los Angeles, and Southern California, and beyond from early January 2025 through late 2026. For more information, visit janm.org/OnTheGo or follow us on social media @jamuseum.
The national book tour is planned for the following pilgrimages with the plan to add some more locations:
Tuesday, February 18 – 21 Washington DC
National Archives 2025 Day of Remembrance program including panel discussion and display of the Ireichō and original copy of Executive Order 9066
Wednesday–Friday, February 19–21
Smithsonian National Museum of American History for stamping
April 26-27, 2025 - Manzanar California
May 13-17, 2025 - Amache Colorado
May 21-22, 2025 - Jerome/Rohwer Arkansas
July 11-13, 2025 - Minidoka Idaho
July 24-26, 2025 - Heart Mountain Wyoming
October 10-12, 2025 - Crystal City Texas
October 24-25, 2025 - Poston Arizona
October 31 - November 2 - Gila River Arizona
February 14-19, 2026 - Sacramento California
May 1-2, 2025 - Topaz Utah
July 4-5, 2026 - Tule Lake California
August 2026 - JANM Los Angeles California (back home!)
ABOUT THE IREI PROJECT
The Irei Project is a nonprofit organization dedicated to the memory of the over 125,000 persons of Japanese ancestry incarcerated in America’s concentration and internment camps during WWII. The Irei Monument is based on the compilation of the names of those incarcerated in the wartime camps. A team of researchers led by project director Duncan Ryuken Williams is responsible for ensuring the comprehensiveness and accuracy of the names. All monuments have been conceived under the guidance of the project’s creative director Sunyoung Lee, together with a team of artists and designers.
The Ireichō contains the first comprehensive listing of over 125,000 persons of Japanese ancestry who were incarcerated into War Relocation Authority camps.
ALL RISE will inspire children and youth to become responsible citizens by engaging them in activities that encourage them to reach unlimited possibilities.
February 2025 ALL RISE Mini-Grant Recipients Announced
Assistance
League of Stockton, Inc., San Joaquin County, CA ACTS Foundation, Fresno County, CA
Just Write Community Project,
Bronx County, NY
[Linden, CA, February 18, 2025] Aaron Judge, New York Yankee and former Fresno State Bulldog, and Founder of the Aaron Judge ALL RISE Foundation is proud to announce the February 2025 ALL RISE Mini-Grant recipients, each receiving $2,500. These organizations connect with the ALL RISE mission to inspire children and youth to become responsible citizens and reach unlimited possibilities.
Assistance League of Stockton is a 52-year member/volunteer driven organization that is highly motivated to reach out to the community through their philanthropic programs. Providing new clothing for underprivileged and unhoused children within the county, last year they served 856 children in 101 schools. The ALL RISE Mini-Grant will allow Assistance League to broaden their program to provide for more children. Through this program, each child receives a pair of jeans; hoodie sweatshirt; t-shirts; underwear and socks. In addition, children receive a packet of personal hygiene items, a packet of school supplies and gift cards. These essentials help fill a tremendous need for the children of our community.
ACTS Foundation, Fresno County, California provides food, housing and education to underserved individuals in the Central Valley. The ALL RISE MiniGrant will support the expansion of the mentorship program to accommodate the growing number of youths participating in their programs. These mentors work closely with six-eight youth each, providing individualized support and guidance during classes that include educational workshops and activities aimed at enhancing academic skills and knowledge. These workshops cover study skills, time management, homework help and career exploration, giving students the necessary tools and resources to excel.
ABOUT ALL RISE
Just Write Community Project, Bronx County, New York uses the power of writing to uplift youth, community members and families. Their program, Write Now! is designed to train young creatives to be authors. Students participate in writing workshops and team building activities where they learn about community, expression, strengthen their writing skills and expand their vocabulary. The ALL RISE Mini-Grant will allow youth and mentors to convene for teambuilding and writing workshops, and purchase games, creative supplies and writing materials to make the sessions more interactive and engaging.
“The ALL RISE Mini-Grants continue to provide activities that encourage confidence, teamwork and decision-making tools that align with the ALL RISE Mission. I am pleased that these organizations are focused on growing the individual students, while providing life skills and opportunities for them to continue to grow in the classroom and the community,” says Aaron Judge, Founder of ALL RISE Foundation.
All funds donated for the Aaron Judge ALL RISE Mini-Grant program go directly to children and youth programs in San Joaquin County, California; Fresno County, California; and Bronx County, New York, that support ongoing citizenship and education development.
The Aaron Judge ALL RISE Foundation focuses on developing positive character traits; provides awards and incentive programs for schools and local organizations to encourage and reward academic improvement and excellence; supports children and youth experiencing difficult health and family circumstances; and fundraising events to support ALL RISE Mini-Grants and Programs. For more information on the Aaron Judge ALL RISE Foundation please visit: aaronjudgeALLRISEfoundation. org., Tax ID#: 83-1083207 501(c)(3).
“The Forgotten History of the Filipino Farm Center” has returned and
will be
on view in the Helen Weber Kennedy Gallery through Memorial Day weekend.
Due to its overwhelming popularity, the recent exhibit “The Forgotten History of the Filipino Farm Center” has returned and will be on view in the Helen Weber Kennedy Gallery through Memorial Day weekend.
Through photos and artifacts, as well as firsthand accounts recorded by videographer Louis Ambriz, visitors will learn about the history of Filipinos in California and San Joaquin County, the factors that lead to the formation of the Farm Center, its active years, and its legacy which lives on today through the lives of those who were there.
A companion edition of the Museum’s historical journal, The San Joaquin Historian is available for purchase by calling (209) 331-2055 or at www.sanjoaquinhistory.org/SHOP.
ABOUT THE FILIPINO FARM CENTER COMMITEE AND THE
SAN
JOAQUIN HISTORICAL MUSEM
The Forgotten History of the Filipino Farm Center exhibit is a joint project between the Filipino Farm Center Committee and the San Joaquin County Historical Museum. Committee members include Linda Claramo, Elizabeth Claramo, Arlinda
and Dr. Bernard Remollino, Filipino American Historian and Associate Professor of Asian American and US History at San
Special thanks to the families of the
Center for their contributions
the
Acoba Campo,
Joaquin Delta College.
Filipino Farm
to
project: Arlinda Acoba Campo, Cathy Acoba Santini, Lily Burgarin, Mitch Tabaldo, Laurena Cabanero, Terri Torres, Linda Soliven, Larry Bermudez, Cathy Gravely, and Val Acoba.
A T M I CKE GROV E
California Assembly Honors Dr. Leroy Morishita for Over 40 Years of Service to CSU
[Sacramento, CA] – California Assemblymembers Buffy Wicks (District 14), Mike Fong (District 49), and Mark Gonzalez (District 54) honored Dr. Leroy Morishita for his remarkable 46 years of service to the California State University (CSU) system.
Dr. Morishita was welcomed to the Assembly, where Assemblymember Buffy Wicks recognized his most recent role as interim president of California State University, Los Angeles, in 2023. She highlighted his leadership at both Cal State LA and Cal State East Bay (where he served as president from 2011 to 2020), noting his success in increasing graduation and retention rates while narrowing equity gaps. She also emphasized his contributions to the CSU system in a consulting role, where he helped develop strategies for stable and predictable revenue to maintain affordability for students.
Assemblymember Mike Fong followed with his own words of appreciation.
“Thank you, Dr. Morishita, for your four decades of service and leadership to our California State Universities and students, including your time at Cal State LA. From uplifting first-generation and low-income students to overseeing multiple campuses, your dedication is truly exemplary. Congratulations and best wishes in your retirement.”
Assemblymember Mark Gonzalez echoed these sentiments, recognizing Dr. Morishita’s lifelong commitment to higher education and his efforts to expand access to underrepresented communities across California.
“Education is the great equalizer, providing students and their families with a pathway to economic mobility,” Gonzalez stated. “Dr. Morishita has admirably served our state for over 40 years, creating opportunities for thousands of students and transforming the lives of countless families. Even after retiring, he returned to serve as interim president of Cal State LA, a university that has educated and employed many of my constituents. As a proud graduate of the California State University system myself, I sincerely thank Dr. Morishita for his commitment to education and his years of service to our great Golden State.”
Dr. Leroy M. Morishita was appointed interim president of Cal State LA in March 2023. Over his distinguished 40-year career, he has served the CSU system in multiple leadership roles, most recently as a consultant developing long-term financial strategies to support the system’s mission and maintain affordability for students across 23 universities.
Previously, Dr. Morishita served as president of Cal State East Bay from 2011 to 2020, initially in an interim role before being appointed permanently in 2012. Under his leadership, student success at CSUEB reached new heights, with improved graduation and retention rates and reduced equity gaps.
His career began at San Francisco State University in 1978, where he held progressively senior roles over 30 years, culminating in his position as Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer for Administration and Finance. He also contributed to multiple
CSU systemwide and statewide committees focused on budget, investments, human resources, and other vital policy matters.
Dr. Morishita is currently president emeritus of California State University, East Bay. He also serves as chair of the Institute of Buddhist Studies, chair of the JA Health Benefits Trust/ JA Community Foundation, and a board member of Asian Pacific Americans in Higher Education. His previous board memberships include the Oakland Promise Governing Board, the Western Association of Schools and Colleges Accrediting Commission for Senior Colleges and Universities, the Bay Area Council, National Campus Compact, California Campus Compact, East Bay Leadership Council, and Asian Community Health Services.
Dr. Morishita earned a B.A. in Psychology from the University of California, Berkeley, an M.S. in Counseling from San Francisco State University, and an Ed.D. in Administration, Planning, and Social Policy from the Harvard Graduate School of Education.
Leroy M. Morishita with family and California Assemblymember Buffy Wicks
City Wide Property Services Celebrates 25 Years of Excellence in Property Maintenance
For more information, please visit www.CityWidePS.com or contact: Media Contact: Shawn Crary • Director of Design & Marketing (279) 386-9347 • Shawn.Crary@CityWidePS.com
[RANCHO CORDOVA, JANUARY 1, 2025] — From humble beginnings to industry leader, City Wide Property Services proudly celebrates 25 years of delivering top-tier facility maintenance across the Western United States.
Founded by Albert and Janee Rodriguez on January 1, 2000, with nothing more than a cell phone, a pressure-washing truck, and an unyielding entrepreneurial spirit, City Wide has grown into a powerhouse in the property services industry.
In the span of 9,131 days, the company has become known for setting the gold standard in commercial property maintenance, repairs, and day-to-day upkeep. With hundreds of dedicated team members, a robust network of business partners, and thousands of service requests managed each month, City Wide continues to exemplify the values that inspired its creation—a relentless pursuit of excellence and a commitment to reliable, high-quality service.
“Looking back, we couldn’t be more grateful for the incredible journey that began here in California’s Central Valley,” said cofounder Albert Rodriguez. “The success of City Wide is a testament to the power of hard work, strong partnerships, and our amazing team.”
Today, City Wide Property Services, Inc. offers a comprehensive suite of maintenance solutions, including parking lot sweeping, janitorial services, graffiti removal, landscape design, pressure washing, and emergency repair services. Known for its 24/7 availability and innovative bundling of recurring services, City Wide continues to save clients time and money, earning the trust of property owners, facility managers, and businesses throughout the Western United States.
As the company looks toward the future, Albert and Janee remain committed to their original mission—delivering first-class service and growing with integrity.
“Celebrating this milestone is both a joy and a reminder of what’s possible when you believe in your dream,” added Janee Rodriguez. “We’re excited for what’s to come and grateful for everyone who’s been part of this journey.”
ABOUT CITY WIDE PROPERTY SERVICES
City Wide Property Services, Inc. provides full-facility maintenance solutions throughout the Western United States. With services spanning parking lot and street sweeping, janitorial care, landscaping, graffiti removal, and skilled technician repairs, City Wide prides itself on dependable, first-class service. Founded on January 1, 2000, the company has grown to become a trusted partner for commercial property owners, managers, and businesses, offering tailored service packages and 24/7 emergency support.
By Jim T.
Edwin Edebiri, the Global Chief Happiness Officer, has made a significant impact over time through his dedication to fostering positive change. His journey began by shifting individual mindsets during the 2008/2009 Great Recession with the "I Am Happy Project," which grew to 70,000 members across 64 cities in 19 countries in just two years. Then, during the pandemic, he helped businesses pivot and survive, leading to a surge in monthly networking registrations from 65 professionals to nearly 20,000 at the peak, all through the Happy Neighborhood Project. Today, he's empowering businesses to build communities that balance profit and well-being through the Happreneurs Business Community. How far will this movement grow? How much impact can it have? Join the journey to experience happiness-driven results—don’t wait, the greatest benefits and excitement are in the early stages!
For more information, visit Happreneurs™
Edwin Edebiri, the Global Chief Happiness Officer
Chong the WokStar & LegendMaker
HERE'S HOW TO HELP WILDFIRE VICTIMS
Strong Santa Ana winds fueled wildfires that burned across Southern California for more than three weeks, destroying entire neighborhoods and forcing tens of thousands more residents out of their homes.
Here's how you can help those affected by the wildfires:
California Fire Foundation Wildfire & Disaster Relief Fund
The California Fire Foundation works with community-based organizations and local fire agencies to offer financial support for residents who are impacted by the fires.
https://www.cafirefoundation.org
Wildfire Recovery Fund
The California Community Foundation has worked to help Los Angeles County since 1915.
The agency's Wildfire Recovery Fund targets hard to reach communities in the area with the intent of providing long-term recovery relief.
https://www.pledge.to/socalstrong
Los Angeles Regional Food Bank
The Los Angeles Regional Food Bank is working with government agencies, nonprofit and faith-based organizations to distribute food and other essentials to those displaced by the wildfires with meals.
https://secure.lafoodbank.org
Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation
The Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation is a nonprofit organization that provides vital equipment for firefighters and funds programs that are critical to help the agency continue to protect communities and save lives.
https://supportlafd.org/welcome.html
Mercy Chefs
Mercy Chefs is a nonprofit organization specializing in disaster relief to provide meals to victims, firefighters, first responders and volunteers.
The organization has provided more than 28 million restaurantquality meals across the country and around the world.
https://mercychefs.com/
Salvation Army
The Salvation Army is able to provide assistance by delivering water, food and emergency supplies. The agency offers both longterm recovery assistance and emergency relief.
The CAL FIRE Benevolent Foundation provides funding for firefighters and their families to help them recover from injuries and hardship.
https://calfire.foundation/
Global Empowerment Mission
The Global Empowerment Mission works to provide emergency aid supplies to those in need, such as nonperishable food items, hygiene products and water. They also provide generators, medical supplies and temporary shelters.
The American Red Cross has hundreds of volunteers deploying to Los Angeles to assist with emergent needs of those displaced by the fire.
The agency currently has four shelters in place and plans to add more as needed, according to Los Angeles regional executive director Joanne Nowlin.
"This is significant," Nowlin told ABC News. "It's not just the fire, but you've got wind damage, you've got power outages, you've got trees falling, deteriorating air quality. This is impacting thousands and thousands of folks in Los Angeles."
The American Red Cross provides emergency relief to residents and families impacted by disasters, providing meals, medical care and a safe place to shower and sleep.
