Building a Legacy,
building dreams!
Legacy LA's mission is to make positive interventions in the lives of young people by offering alternatives to gangs and violence. Legacy LA builds the capacity of youth to reach their full potential and equips them with tools to transform their lives and community.
Founded in 2007 by former Ramona Gardens neighborhood resident Maria "Lou" Calanche, Legacy LA addresses the impact of multi-generational gang violence and low educational attainment in Ramona Gardens in Boyle Heights and surrounding neighborhoods in the City of Los Angeles. Built in 1941, Ramona Gardens is one of the City's oldest public housing developments and is home to approximately 2,000 residents - primarily Latino - in 498 units of affordable housing for very low-income families.
What We Do
Youth Programs
We offer programs for youth including:
Academic Support (Virtual)
Academic, cultural, art, leadership, and mentoring programs.
Family Support
We offer support for families including:
Connection to additional services and resources to assist the family unit as a whole.
Parent Programs
We offer support for families including:
Citizenship Workshops
Leadership Programs
Wellness Workshops
What People Are Saying
“Legacy LA is a home. A safe and brave space for many young people. Having worked as a Case Manager for the last 3 years, I have witnessed first hand how Legacy LA transforms lives. Through the years, I have seen the power in young people believing in their voices. I have seen our young people walk the stage to receive their High School diplomas, grow into the leaders they have been destined to be as well as seeing them reach the goals and never forgetting to DREAM BIG!”
—Alina C., (High School Case Manager/Education Advocate)
“Legacy has so many programs that help students in High School especially Seniors like me. Going through the college process, was really hard for me but thanks to their help and support, I was able to fill out (college applications.) They helped me step-by-step. I really am grateful for Legacy LA.”
— Michelle C., 17 (Legacy LA Member)