January 2023 Newsletter

Penny Lane Centers staff had the pleasure of attending the 7th Annual Cultural Broker Summit.  The theme of the event was Lift Every Voice. Cultural Brokers are African-American community members, who volunteer their time, and heart, as a commitment to address the inequities impacting African American families and children once they have an interaction with the child welfare system. They bridge the gap between DCFS and the families they serve, by fostering communication between the two, ensuring the families’ voice is heard and providing linkage to appropriate resources. Read more to hear about this past month's summit!

‍

This month you get to meet Naomi Novak, the Senior Director for Intensive Mental Health. She grew up off the grid without electricity, running water, or a telephone. It was a struggle, but it was also such an amazing way to grow up and develop. They had to be resourceful, creative, and resilient. There was always this culture of service within their family.  Such an interesting read, check it out to learn more about Naomi!

Penny Lane Centers was recently awarded $100,000 from the S. Mark Taper Foundation. Founded in 1989, the S. Mark Taper Foundation is a private family foundation dedicated to enhancing the quality of people’s lives by supporting nonprofit organizations and their work in the community. The foundation has been a generous supporter of Penny Lane in the past and we are grateful for this grant which goes towards general operating funds.

‍

The “Penny Laners” and PLC Board members came together at Oakmont Country Club on Thursday December 22nd to celebrate the holidays, our successes and enjoy each other.  There was food, drink, music, entertainment and most importantly camaraderie. Check out some of the photos from the magical evening!

‍

We are working hard to get those that need housing a place to live. With 4-5 projects currently in process, Abbey Road continues to lead the way for those who need it most. Check out the progress we have made on multiple projects this month!

Meet our Board Member Dr. Bruce Hector this month!  Bruce first became involved with PLC in 1975 as its first visiting campus medical provider. He joined the BOD in mid-1990’s. Ivelise's devotion and fortitude to deal with the bureaucracy without compromise of integrity as well PLC’s adaptability to changing times has been inspirational to him.  Click on the link to learn more about Dr. Hector.

As we wrap up our winter holidays Penny Lane wants to thank all of those who contributed to make the holidays happy for our children, youth and families.   With YOUR help every person and family Penny Lane serves had food and gifts to make their holidays truly merry!   We are humbled and indebted to each and every one of you – thank you for your support and your belief in our mission. Check out highlights from our 13th Annual Holiday Boutique, TAY Tamales celebration, PFF Grinchmas celebration and much more!!

This month we introduce you to Yoseline Ortiz, who is currently the Training Assistant and Mentor Internship Program (MIP) Coordinator at our North Hills location. Yoseline started her career at Penny Lane in October 2011 right out of college, as she was hired as an Overnight Residential Counselor at our Main Facility.  She has worked very hard and due to her past achievements in the organization and community, in October 2022, she was promoted! Check it out to learn more about Yoseline!

Check all the open positions at Penny Lane Centers this month!