July was a month filled with moments that reminded us what makes Penny Lane Centers so special, the people. From honoring a beloved colleague whose legacy continues to inspire us, to strengthening community partnerships that expand our impact, to celebrating a team member whose dedication exemplifies our mission, each event reflected the compassion, collaboration, and commitment that define our organization. These stories remind us that while every day looks different, together we continue building stronger communities, supporting one another, and transforming lives. We invite you to look back at some of the meaningful moments that made July a month to remember.
Some people leave footprints so deep that time can never erase them. Tammy Bassrey was one of those people. Although two years have passed since her passing, her presence continues to be felt throughout Penny Lane—in the conversations we share, the compassion we show, and the countless lives she touched during her time with us.
For many who had the privilege of working alongside Tammy, memories of her come naturally. She was someone who could brighten a hallway conversation with laughter, connect over family stories, celebrate the excitement of an upcoming vacation, or simply offer a hug at exactly the right moment. Her warmth made people feel seen, valued, and cared for, and those gifts continue to inspire us every day.
As Jen Lane beautifully shared in a heartfelt tribute, grief is not simply about loss—it is a reflection of love that never disappears. Tammy's influence remains present in the quiet reminders to take life one moment at a time, to extend grace to ourselves and others, and to continue choosing kindness even during life's most difficult seasons. Many of us still find comfort in the little signs that remind us she is never truly far away.
Tammy's family recently shared words that perfectly capture the legacy she leaves behind: "She would be proud that you all continue to show up for the suffering and the joy in remembrance of her." Those words serve as a powerful reminder that honoring someone's life is not only about remembering them, but about carrying forward the values they embodied every single day.
As we pause to remember Tammy, we celebrate a life filled with compassion, generosity, laughter, and unwavering care for others. Her legacy continues to live on through every act of kindness, every life transformed, and every member of the Penny Lane family who chooses to lead with love. Tammy, you are deeply missed, forever remembered, and always a part of Penny Lane. 💗
Partnerships have the power to transform communities, and on July 1, Penny Lane Centers was proud to once again participate in Logix Federal Credit Union's annual Community Stars event. The special event celebrates nonprofit organizations making a meaningful impact across Southern California while giving Logix employees the opportunity to learn more about the causes they support through workplace giving. It was an inspiring afternoon filled with conversations, connections, and a shared commitment to strengthening our communities.
Representing Penny Lane Centers was our own Jen Barraza Garcia, whose enthusiasm and welcoming spirit made our table a favorite stop throughout the event. Employees enjoyed spinning our "Spin to Win" prize wheel for Penny Lane merchandise, picking up information about our programs, and learning how Penny Lane transforms the lives of children, youth, adults, and families across Los Angeles County. Every interaction became an opportunity to share our mission and demonstrate the lasting impact of community support.
One of the afternoon's most memorable moments came through an unexpected connection. Karina Olmedo from the Logix Human Resources team stopped by our booth and shared that she is the sister of Edwin Olmedo, Penny Lane's Intake and Placement Specialist in Housing Services. Both Jen and I immediately smiled, having worked alongside Edwin over the years. Hearing that Edwin speaks so highly of Penny Lane made the encounter even more meaningful and served as a wonderful reminder that the relationships we build often reach far beyond the walls of our organization.
We also had the pleasure of meeting employees who shared stories about participating in Logix's annual holiday gift drive benefiting Penny Lane families, while others spoke about their own personal connections to our organization. These conversations highlighted that true partnerships are built on much more than financial support—they grow through shared experiences, trust, and a collective desire to create brighter futures for those we serve.
We are incredibly grateful to Logix Federal Credit Union for continuing to recognize Penny Lane Centers as one of its Community Stars. Opportunities like these allow us to share our mission, build new relationships, and inspire others to invest in the well-being of our communities. Together, we are reminded that lasting change begins one conversation, one partnership, and one act of generosity at a time.
-Judy Grant, Penny Lane Centers
Check out some more photos below!
Congratulations to Diane Delawari, our July YAYA Award recipient! Diane's unwavering commitment to the youth and families we serve, along with her positive attitude and willingness to step in wherever needed, has made her an invaluable member of the Penny Lane team. As her program has navigated periods of transition, Diane has consistently risen to every challenge with professionalism, compassion, and an unwavering focus on those she serves.
Whether coordinating with multiple teams, supporting her colleagues, or taking on responsibilities beyond her role, Diane exemplifies what it means to be a true team player. She has seamlessly worn many hats, ensuring that services continue without missing a beat while always putting the needs of our clients first. Her flexibility, reliability, and collaborative spirit make her someone her teammates know they can always count on.
Her team shared, "When we think about someone who truly embodies the spirit of wearing multiple hats and never missing a beat, this person immediately comes to mind. No matter how many different roles or urgent tasks get thrown their way, they handle everything with absolute grace and incredible dedication. Having worked with her in the past, I've seen firsthand how many different roles she plays and how seamlessly she manages them all."
Diane's dedication reminds us that leadership isn't defined by a title—it's demonstrated through action, teamwork, and a willingness to support others whenever they're needed. Thank you, Diane, for your incredible commitment, your servant's heart, and the positive impact you make each day.
Congratulations on this well-deserved recognition as our July YAYA Award recipient! 🎉
-Mark Cruz, Penny Lane Centers
