Each May, we proudly celebrate Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month — a time to recognize and honor the rich history, vibrant cultures, and countless contributions of the AAPI community. At Penny Lane, we are deeply committed to fostering an inclusive and welcoming environment where diversity is celebrated year-round.
The AAPI community has shaped and enriched the fabric of our society through achievements in art, science, education, leadership, and so much more. Visionary leaders like Kamala Harris, the first South Asian American Vice President; Yo-Yo Ma, world-renowned cellist; Chloe Zhao, Academy Award-winning director; and Duke Kahanamoku, Olympic swimmer and surfing pioneer, have made lasting impacts that continue to inspire future generations. Their achievements are just a few examples of the many ways AAPI individuals have influenced and uplifted our world.
At Penny Lane, we are happy and honored to support the AAPI community. We value the resilience, traditions, and vibrant heritage that the AAPI community brings to our collective experience. Their voices, stories, and leadership inspire us to build a more inclusive, compassionate world.
This May, we encourage everyone to participate in AAPI Heritage Month celebrations happening across Los Angeles, including:
These events highlight the vibrant creativity and enduring contributions of the AAPI community and provide wonderful opportunities to engage, learn, and celebrate.
This month — and always — we stand with the AAPI community in celebration, solidarity, and gratitude. Happy AAPI Heritage Month!
-Judy Grant, Penny Lane Centers
Do you remember where you were when you first heard the name George Floyd?
None of us could have known that his name would become synonymous with a movement — a cry for justice and systemic change in how Black and African American citizens are treated by law enforcement in this country. It was just two months into the COVID-19 lockdown, and many of us were struggling to adapt to working from home and coping with the unknowns of a pandemic. But it quickly became clear that the pandemic wasn't the only thing claiming innocent lives.
On May 25, 2020, the world was rocked by the horror of George Floyd’s murder. Captured on a bystander’s phone, we witnessed four police officers take part in the killing of an unarmed Black man. Let's be honest: this was not the first time White officers had taken the life of an unarmed Black person. The list of names is heartbreakingly long. But what was different this time was that the world saw it happen — in broad daylight, on camera. We heard George Floyd pleading again and again, "I can't breathe," and we saw a man kneel on his neck until he took his last breath.
From the grief and outrage, a movement rose. Black Lives Matter flooded the streets, demanding change. And here at PLC, the Racial Justice Committee (RJC) was born. Our CEO, Wendy Carpenter, stood before us and declared that we would not sit silently as marginalized communities continued to be brutalized. A call went out to those who wanted to act, and some 40 people answered.
Those first RJC meetings were filled with emotions; raw and real. We shared why we joined. There were tears, there was anger. Hope was still distant, but we found comfort and solidarity in one another. We found purpose.
The RJC soon crafted our Inclusion Statement:
“We believe that the elimination of systemic racism and other forms of oppression is critical to providing effective human services.”
Since that day, the RJC has proudly served PLC and the broader community by publicly standing with all marginalized communities. We've held trainings internally and externally, uplifted the voices of those who dare to speak out, and created a heart-centered environment where everyone is welcome. We continue to fight for equity in everything we do. It is no small feat — but we are determined, and we will not stop doing the right thing.
As I write this, I feel the same anger I felt on May 25, 2020. Some days it feels like little has changed. Marginalized communities are still under attack, and police brutality persists. But I choose to focus on the good that has come from that anger. Together, we have built something strong. Together, we have made a difference — and together, we will continue.
May 25, 2025, marks five years since George Floyd’s murder.
Today, we remember the man who ignited a global movement, empowered generations, and demanded change.
We honor you, George Floyd. Today and every day.
This past April, we proudly celebrated the incredible staff members who have dedicated 25 years or more to Penny Lane Centers. These remarkable individuals have helped shape our agency with their passion, resilience, and unwavering commitment to the communities we serve.
Their journeys reflect the very heart of Penny Lane — a place built on compassion, strength, and a shared vision for a brighter future. Each milestone represents countless lives touched, challenges overcome, and memories made.
Each of these individuals has brought something uniquely special to PLC. Their talents and dedication have helped create an environment where everyone is welcome, where every role is valued, and where commitment is a cornerstone of both personal and professional belief.
Their longevity and spirit inspire us all.
Throughout the month, we reflected on their journeys — learning about the biggest lessons they've carried with them, their first-day experiences, their favorite memories, and the wisdom they hope to pass on to the next generation of PLC staff. We heard stories of warm welcomes, the importance of connecting with colleagues, and the enduring truth that even in the face of challenges, perseverance is possible when we work together.
To every 25+ year honoree: Thank you for your service, your heart, and your countless contributions to our mission. We are grateful beyond words.
Here’s to many more milestones together!
