Elevate Black Leaders program helps build a cohort of strong, Black, next generation leaders with deep roots in their communities

Overview

 LISC LA is partnering with AABLI to support Black leaders at community development and racial justice organizations in Los Angeles in the Elevate Black Leaders program. 

This year long professional development program aims to build a cohort of strong Black, next generation leaders with deep roots in their communities. By prioritizing Black-led organizations and leaders, the program supports a cohort of organizations that are addressing the economic, civic, and political outcomes of structural racism, have the capacity and infrastructure necessary to build the social and economic power of low-income communities, fight for racial equity and justice, and ultimately close the racial wealth gap.

Program Components

The program supports a cohort of 10 Black leaders at community development and social justice organizations. As part of the program, Cohort members have the opportunity to engage in a variety of professional development and capacity building activities including:

LISC LA provides a $2,500 stipend for cohort members to participate in the program. 

Elevate Black Leaders Cohort

Adewale OgunBadejo
Workforce Development Manager for GRID Alternatives

Crystal Sims
Director of Compliance for Abode Communities 

Deborah Roberson
Founder, Executive Director, and CEO of T.D.D. Supportive Living, Inc

Jason Riffe
Director of Housing Initiatives for United Way of Greater LA

Joseph H. Paul, Jr.
Managing Director for LARRP

Martel Okonji
Director of Innovation for Safe Place for Youth

Reginald Johnson
Founder and CEO of Willowbrook Inclusion Network

Toni Wells-Bryant
Executive Director, CEO of M.E.N.T.O.R.S., Inc.

Treasure Sheppard
Analyst and PRPF: Chair of the Board (President) for LACDA and Pasadena Recreation and Parks Foundation (PRPF

Yannis Oliver
Director of Finance for Venice Community Housing

This program was made possible through the generosity of our partner. 

Elevate Black Leaders program is part of LISC LA's Black Economic Development Agenda, our 2021 initiative to close the racial wealth gap, support the local economies of historically Black neighborhoods, and empower Black-owned businesses in Los Angeles through LISC LA programs and resources.