UMCR received a call about an elderly Hispanic female sitting on RP's porch refusing to leave, she had been there for more than 2 hours. The individual who went by the name of “Rosa” was making good eye contact and agreed to talk to UMCR. Rosa appeared to have symptoms of dementia but was happy because UMCR spoke with her in her primary language (Spanish). UMCR engaged with individual, asked open-ended questions while providing empathy and emotional support. Rosa reported that she did not remember how she got there and didn’t possess any identification. Rosa only knew her full name and birthday and shared how she missed her family. UMCR validated her feelings and actively listened. UMCR redirected the call to LAPD Devonshire division. LAPD was able to find an address for Rosa, but it dated back to 2012, in the city of Ontario, CA. LAPD officers found the Assisted Living Facility where Rosa was residing, about 2 blocks from where Rosa was found. LAPD asked UMCR to follow them and transport Rosa to the facility where she was living.
Rosa looked happy. Rosa confirmed and recognized the staff on duty at the facility while smiling. UMCR walked Rosa into the facility. Staff stated that the gate opens and closes and that’s probably how Rosa was able to get out. UMCR thanked LAPD officers for their assistance while Rosa seemed relieved and happy to be back at her residence.
This story is a powerful example of how compassion, cultural sensitivity, and quick collaboration can make all the difference. By engaging Rosa in her own language and taking the time to listen, UMCR was able to build trust and ease her fear. What could have been a frightening and disorienting experience for Rosa instead became a moment of connection, kindness, and safe reunification. The teamwork between UMCR, law enforcement, and the assisted living staff highlights the strength of community partnerships in ensuring the well-being of vulnerable individuals.
Rosa’s safe return also underscores the mission of UMCR: to show up for people in moments of crisis with empathy, patience, and care. Every call is unique, but the goal remains the same—helping people find their way back to safety, dignity, and hope. Rosa’s smile as she reconnected with her caregivers is a reminder that small acts of compassion ripple outward, protecting not only the individual but uplifting the entire community.
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Clarivel was awarded the YAYA! for providing a welcoming environment for coworkers and her clients alike. Clarivel does an amazing job with her families, is always asking for suggestions, collaborates with her team, and helps us embody the “Community” value of Penny Lane. August was a great month for Clarivel as she also celebrated her birthday and had a surprise Baby Shower to help welcome her baby girl to her family. Congratulations Clarivel! We’re excited for all these blessings, and we are blessed to have you as one of our Parent Partners!
Clarivel’s dedication goes beyond her daily responsibilities—she has a natural ability to make people feel heard and valued. Families who work with her often express gratitude for her kindness and steady support, noting how she makes even the most difficult situations feel a little lighter. Her peers admire her willingness to jump in whenever help is needed and her openness to learning and growing alongside her team. These qualities make her not just an outstanding Parent Partner, but also a role model of what it means to live out Penny Lane’s values.
It’s no surprise that August was filled with celebrations for Clarivel. The Baby Shower was a joyful reminder of how much she is loved and appreciated, not only as a professional but as part of the Penny Lane family. As she prepares to welcome her baby girl, we know she’ll bring the same warmth, patience, and love she gives to her clients into her new role as a mother. We can’t wait to see all the wonderful ways she continues to inspire and uplift those around her.
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Last month's National Night Out was all about connection, trust, and fun. The LAPD spent the evening engaging face-to-face with the communities they serve, taking time to showcase their gear, share food, and most importantly, share conversations. It was a chance for residents to see the people behind the badge, ask questions, and engage in meaningful dialogue. Events like this remind us that community safety is built not only on enforcement, but also on relationships.
In addition to the outreach and demonstrations, there were plenty of family-friendly activities that created a welcoming atmosphere. Children explored police vehicles with wide-eyed excitement, neighbors mingled with officers, and future recruits got a glimpse of what it means to serve. Penny Lane families were part of the celebration too, joining in the backpack giveaway for school children. The smiles on the kids’ faces as they received their new supplies were a highlight of the evening, symbolizing hope and readiness for the school year ahead.
Overall, National Night Out proved to be more than just an event—it was a night of building bridges, celebrating community spirit, and reinforcing the idea that we are stronger together. For Penny Lane, it was a meaningful opportunity to show up alongside our neighbors, fostering trust and collaboration with the LAPD while creating joyful memories for our families.
-Erik Ingebrigtsen, Penny Lane Centers
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