Words by Smiley Team
There is nothing more important than community – and that's something a nonprofit in South Los Angeles is on a mission to follow through with.
Avalon-Carver community center has served as a meeting place for people from all walks of life since it opened its doors in 1940. Mary B. Henry, a longtime South Los Angeles civic activist, had a vision for the center, which has been carried out ever since. It has evolved into an important part of the neighborhood's rich diversity.
It's always been able to adapt to the changing needs of its ever-expanding and evolving community. Community leaders and strong families have been raised and nurtured in the midst of adversity and triumph.
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The three pillars of the work they do are formed around education, community, and rehabilitation to meet the needs of the families they serve.
New spaces and services to foster education are being constructed in a safe, welcoming environment to better serve their community. These resources are available to students through a variety of means. Their goal is to give free educational materials that will help people grow and improve.
The agency has also made initiatives to help a vulnerable population by enhancing educational chances, work opportunities, housing options, and personal and community interactions. They wish to expand on their current offerings by providing additional accommodation for individuals in need and improving educational resources.
The work that they’ve done in Los Angeles has allowed Avalon-Carver to make prestigious partnerships.
Dr. Joy DeGruy, a prominent researcher, psychologist, social worker, and author has worked with Avalon-Carver since 2015. Collaborations on education and teacher training, parent education workshops, and rites of passage facilitator training have all been part of their partnership.
DeGruy's study has been essential in assisting African-American communities in developing protective factors that foster good attitudes, values, and beliefs, increase social supports and nurture mental, physical, spiritual, and emotional health. Her knowledge and understanding of the special needs of African-American communities are priceless.
The overall mission of Avalon-Carver Community Center is to care for the physical, mental and spiritual needs of individuals and families in south LA.
To learn more or to donate to their cause, you can visit avalon-carver.org. You can also follow their work on Instagram.
