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2024 Grants Challenge

Let's Get A.C.T.I.V.E.

A.C.T.I.V.E. is a dynamic initiative focused on mental health & wellness, offering free services to underserved & low-income communities. These services act as preventative measures to decrease and de-escalate tension & violence throughout high crime areas. We provide practical tools to manage stress, anger, & emotions healthily. Through arts, education, & mindfulness, we offer a holistic approach to well-being. Tools include group talks, sound bowl sessions, mindful meditation, yoga, & more, promoting a supportive mental health community.

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What is the primary issue area that your application will impact?

Mental health

In what stage of innovation is this project, program, or initiative?

Expand existing project, program, or initiative (expanding and continuing ongoing, successful work)

What is your understanding of the issue that you are seeking to address?

Our understanding of the issue is that underserved and low-income communities often lack access to essential mental health and wellness services. This absence of support can lead to increased tension and violence. A.C.T.I.V.E. seeks to address this by offering free, transformative services that provide practical tools for managing stress, anger, and emotions in healthy ways. By incorporating arts, education, and mindfulness, we aim to create a holistic approach to mental well-being, fostering a supportive community and promoting overall mental health.

Describe the project, program, or initiative this grant will support to address the issue.

Underserved & low-income communities face daunting challenges including gun violence, theft, & gang activity exacerbated by economic disparities. Single-parent households are common, compounding financial instability & limiting educational opportunities. Access to healthcare, transportation, & essential services is often constrained, hindering effective mental health support. There's a pervasive sense of hopelessness & lack of support networks, making it difficult for individuals of all ages to heal from trauma.
A.C.T.I.V.E. acknowledges these issues & provides free mental health & wellness services. We offer tools like group talks, sound bowl sessions, mindful meditation, yoga & more to empower individuals to manage stress & emotions positively. Our holistic approach not only addresses immediate needs but also promotes long-term resilience & community support. By breaking cycles of violence & fostering healing & empowerment, we aim to create a healthier & more resilient community.

Describe how Los Angeles County will be different if your work is successful.

By enhancing emotional intelligence, communication skills & personal resilience, we empower individuals to navigate difficult circumstances more effectively, fostering stronger community cohesion & support networks. This, in turn, cultivates a culture of mutual respect & understanding, mitigating social isolation & promoting mental well-being across all age groups.
In addressing systemic challenges like limited resources, transportation barriers, & educational disparities, our programs strive to bridge gaps & provide equitable access to essential services. By offering these services free of charge, we remove financial barriers that often prevent these communities from accessing such critical resources, promoting equity & inclusivity.
Our goal is to create a community where individuals feel empowered, supported, & motivated to pursue positive change & every Los Angeles County resident has the opportunity to thrive and contribute to a safer, healthier, & more resilient community fabric.

What evidence do you have that this project, program, or initiative is or will be successful, and how will you define and measure success?

Impact measurement in community programs like A.C.T.I.V.E. involves tracking attendance, gathering participant feedback, and observing changes in behavior or attitudes. This includes assessing reduced incidents of violence, improved mental health indicators, and increased community engagement. Feedback from community stakeholders and qualitative testimonials also play a crucial role. Long-term impact is evaluated through sustained improvements in well-being, educational attainment, and community resilience. These metrics collectively demonstrate the program's effectiveness in addressing community needs and achieving meaningful outcomes.

Approximately how many people will be impacted by this project, program, or initiative?

Direct Impact: 175.0

Indirect Impact: 500.0