Last Friday, Daisy and I along with other night team members had the honor of participating in the Unarmed Mobile Crisis Response Recognition Event. It was a meaningful moment where the City Council formally endorsed and celebrated the impact of our work. Seeing the community and leadership come together affirmed what we already know — This service is not just needed; it is real, it is working, and it is saving lives.
Several council members recognized me from a previous interview involving a young man whose life I had the privilege of helping to save. While I am not someone who seeks accolades, it was humbling to feel seen — not for the recognition itself, but for the sincerity and heart that guide our work every day. This experience reminded me that this path isn't something I chose lightly; it’s a natural expression of who I am and the values I carry.
I am grateful to continue walking this path alongside my colleagues, offering authentic care to those who need it most. This event was more than a celebration — it was a promise that our work matters and that the seeds we plant quietly every day are beginning to bloom in the larger community. I look forward to continuing to serve with the same heart, dedication, and spirit that have carried me this far.
Here is the link to the LA city council meeting today in which UMCR was recognized. One of our UMCR staff, Azad spoke and did a great job. If you want to watch the UMCR recognition by the city council it starts around the 50.58 minute mark.
Check out some more photos below!
UMCR received a call from a local business regarding a disturbance at the location by an individual harassing customers and employees and refusing to leave. Upon arrival, UMCR called the person reporting, which stated that the individual was there for a few hours that day, due to the rain. Upon entering the business, the UMCR team witnessed the individual at one of the tables and recognized him from one of our interactions a few months ago. The individual also recognized the UMCR team members and were happy to see us and even remembered our names. We spoke with the individual to continue to build a rapport and offer support and encouragement. Due to the nature of the business, we asked the individual to step outside to talk with us for privacy reasons, which he agreed.
Through active listening, UMCR was eventually able get information from him on his caretaker, which the UMCR team contacted. Upon doing so, the caretaker did confirm that the individual does have a place to stay but has been gone for a while and they were very worried about them. UMCR discussed options and safety planning with the individual and the caregiver and the individual agreed to go back home. The individual asked UMCR to take him to the bus station to get home. UMCR agreed and transported the individual. UMCR made sure he was able to get on the correct bus home. The individual was very thankful to UMCR team for listening to him, allowing him to feel seen and heard. UMCR stayed with individual until he got on the bus. The individual expressed gratitude to the UMCR team and the UMCR team thanked him for sharing his story and for allowing us to assist him in getting home.
