Relative Support Services, in partnership with the Community and Family Resource Center, recently hosted a special Color, Create & Connect event at Color Me Mine. Families came together for an evening focused on creativity, connection, and quality time.
Participants had the opportunity to paint and create as a family, encouraging bonding through art and shared experiences. The event also included pizza and cupcakes, adding to the fun and welcoming atmosphere.
To continue fostering family connections at home, each family received a goody bag filled with family-focused board games. It was a wonderful opportunity for families to slow down, connect, and create lasting memories together.
Beyond the artwork created that evening, what stood out most was the sense of togetherness in the room. Parents, caregivers, and children were fully present with one another—laughing, encouraging creativity, and celebrating each other’s unique expressions. Moments like these are at the heart of what makes community-centered events so impactful, offering families a chance to step away from daily stressors and simply enjoy being together.
This event also highlights the ongoing commitment of Relative Support Services and the Community and Family Resource Center to create spaces where families feel supported, engaged, and connected. By providing opportunities that blend creativity, wellness, and relationship-building, we continue to strengthen the bonds that help families thrive both during these shared experiences and long after they return home.
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A joyful day of connection, creativity, and community for our WRAP families
Our WRAP Spring Celebration brought together families, children, and staff for a day filled with laughter, connection, and unforgettable moments. From the moment families arrived, the energy was vibrant, welcoming, and full of joy, creating a space where everyone felt included and celebrated. It was a beautiful reminder of the power of community and the importance of creating opportunities for families to come together in meaningful ways.
Children enjoyed a variety of interactive stations throughout the event that kept smiles on their faces all day long. From Easter egg decorating and bunny headband crafts to face painting, egg races, and the ever-popular bunny hop, there was no shortage of fun and creativity. One of the highlights of the day was the Adopt-a-Bunny station, where children were able to choose and care for their very own stuffed bunny, adding an extra layer of excitement and imagination to the celebration.
Beyond the activities, what made the day truly special was the connection shared among families. Caregivers had the chance to relax, engage with one another, and enjoy watching their children play and create in a safe, joyful environment. Events like this provide more than just entertainment—they offer families the opportunity to build relationships, strengthen bonds, and create lasting memories together.
The WRAP Spring Celebration reflects our ongoing commitment to supporting families not just through services, but through experiences that nurture joy, creativity, and connection. We are grateful to everyone who helped bring this day to life and look forward to continuing to create spaces where our families can thrive, connect, and celebrate together.
-Madeline Sacba, Penny Lane Centers
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This month, we are proud to highlight a powerful example of connection, compassion, and persistence in action by our UMCR Day Team. After receiving a call from LAPD regarding an individual requesting resources, the team responded and met with “Trenda,” taking the time to build trust and understand her unique circumstances. Through active listening and a heart-centered approach, the team learned that Trenda has been living on the streets intermittently since 2022 while also managing ongoing health concerns. Despite these challenges, she shared that she has a supportive partner and friend, reflecting her resilience and the importance of community in her journey.
As the conversation unfolded, Trenda expressed interest in reconnecting with her case manager through the Homeless Management Information System (HMIS) to pursue a housing referral. With her permission, the UMCR team quickly located the case manager’s information and made contact directly on site. By providing real-time updates on Trenda’s location, the team helped bridge the gap, allowing the case manager to successfully reconnect with her within just a few hours. This immediate response highlights the team’s dedication to meeting individuals where they are and taking meaningful action in the moment.
This success story is a testament to the power of persistence, collaboration, and compassionate care. By showing up, listening, and following through, the UMCR team helped move Trenda one step closer to stable housing and a path forward. It is moments like these that reflect the true impact of the work—creating connections that open doors to hope, support, and lasting change.
-Serena Sitterle & Lori Reid, Penny Lane Centers
Penny Lane’s Pet Committee continues to embody what it truly means to show up with compassion—not only for our clients, but for every member of their families, including their beloved pets. Through their efforts, the committee has played a meaningful role in supporting animals impacted by crisis situations, ensuring they are met with care, safety, and a path toward a more stable future. These moments remind us that healing often extends beyond the individual, reaching into every part of a family’s life.
One recent example of this impact is the story of Bessie, a Penny Lane pup rescued from a domestic violence situation. Thanks to the collective care of our village, Bessie was given a second chance. Penny Lane therapist Jacqualine “Jackie” Villasenor opened her heart and home, becoming a proud “fur mom” and providing Bessie with the love and stability she deserves. It is acts like these that reflect the deep compassion within our staff—going beyond their roles to truly make a difference.
Another heartwarming story comes from the rescue of Bestie, made possible through the efforts of Jeniffer Barraza-Garcia. Going above and beyond, Jeniffer helped ensure that Bestie found a new, loving home where she is now thriving. According to Jeniffer, Bestie’s new family is completely “head over heels in pup love,” a testament to the life-changing impact of these efforts. Through the dedication of the Pet Committee and staff who step up in big ways, Penny Lane continues to create a ripple effect of care—supporting not just people, but the animals who bring them comfort, companionship, and unconditional love.
-Maggie Williams, Penny Lane Centers
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The LAPD Meet & Greet at Sun Commons created a meaningful opportunity for residents in our permanent housing program to connect directly with local police officers in a welcoming and supportive environment. With additional support from the City Attorney’s Office Domestic Violence Unit, the event brought together key community partners to engage with families, answer questions, and provide valuable resources. It was a space designed to build trust, increase awareness, and foster open dialogue between residents and those who serve the community.
Families had a great time interacting with the various providers, asking thoughtful questions, and learning more about the services available to them. The strong turnout was a clear reflection of the community’s interest and the importance of creating spaces like this. Events like the LAPD Meet & Greet continue to strengthen relationships, promote safety, and reinforce a sense of connection and support within Sun Commons.
-Erik Ingebrigtsen, Penny Lane Centers
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