EDUCATION IS POWER--Local Hearts Foundation

K-12 STEAM education

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

Los Angeles county states that 23% (372,961) of children under age 18 live below the poverty line. Local Hearts Foundation, addresses poverty and lack of educational resources impacted by disparities in income, access to quality education, and opportunities for personal/professional growth. People directly impacted are: low-income families, at-risk youth, and individuals facing economic hardships. "Education is Power," aims to support those struggling financially by relieving their burdens by: distributing educational materials; offering tutoring/mentorship programs; giving away free haircuts to students to boost confidence; and organizing workshops that equip participants with essential life and work skills. Thus, bridging the educational access gap and empower individuals with knowledge needed to prevail and transform. We use technology and creativity as catalysts for educational/personal development to ensure beneficiaries achieve their immediate needs and pursue long-term goals.

Local Hearts Foundation remains committed to empowering underprivileged communities by providing interventions that meet immediate needs, and promote long-term growth and resilience through addressing the underlying causes of educational inequality and poverty. Two key areas the LA2050 grant will assist in are:
● Youth Educational Empowerment/ Resources: Our initiative, "EDUCATION IS POWER," aims to reduce the educational gap by giving students access to quality learning materials, technology, mentoring, tutoring, and leadership development. The outcomes are: raising literacy rates; improving academic outcomes; and access to digital literacy programs which are essential in navigating today's technologically advanced world. Thus, giving youth the tools they need to succeed in school and help them attain higher education and develop technical and creative skills for future employment.
● Community Engagement and Volunteerism: Promote group action toward shared objectives by building a strong sense of community, which results in a more resilient, empowering, and supportive community fabric.

Our vision for success includes higher academic performance and increased civic involvement among underserved youth, leading to reduced dropout rates and greater college enrollment and increased employment opportunities. With a 25% year-over-year increase in event participation and 75% of students showing academic improvement, our initiative fosters a culture of learning and support. In the long term, we plan to scale up by partnering with additional schools and organizations, expanding further our reach within Los Angeles county-wide. This will create a more educated, empowered, and cohesive community, where every child has the opportunity to succeed and contribute positively to society.

Local Hearts Foundation measures its initiative impact through participation numbers, academic performance, surveys, and community involvement. We track the number of students and families participating in our events, noting a 25% increase in attendees at our “Education is Power” over the past year. Collaboration with local schools reveals that 75% of students receiving our supplies show improved attendance and grades. Surveys indicate that 90% of parents feel reduced financial stress and report enhanced student focus. Volunteer participation has grown by 40%, reflecting strong community support. This data underscores our initiative's effectiveness in addressing educational disparities, evidenced by tangible improvements in academic outcomes and positive stakeholder feedback.