In a time when organizations are expected to make a public statement in reaction to every unjust political action, you may have noticed that we’ve chosen a different path this time around. Here’s why.

2025 has proven to be an incredibly challenging year…and it’s only March. In the whirlwind of catastrophic events from the LA fires to attacks on immigrants and DEI, to sweeping federal funding cuts, LTSC jumped into action ramping up direct services, taking on new clients, committing to crucial coalition work, fortifying staff care, and more. We’ve been really busy adapting to meet growing and urgent needs.

On top of that, the reality is that we’re being impacted by the onslaught of executive orders, policies and funding cuts. But as we approach April at full speed, we wanted to take a moment to connect with you, our supporters, and let you know where our head’s at. As we face these challenges, we’re finding strength in our partnerships and coalitions, including assistance from legal organizations. We remain confident in our approach to our mission–and we want you to, as well. 

Here’s what we know: 

1.  Our values are non-negotiable, especially when doing the right thing increasingly means doing the hard thing. We remain grounded in our purpose, and it’s our daily promise to the people and communities we serve.

2.  We’re stronger together. We’re ramping up our work with our networks, coalitions and partners to build mutual support and advocate for the world we want to see.

3.  We will not fold, concede, or be complicit in efforts that undermine social justice, disrespect cultural diversity, or abandon those with the greatest needs. 

4.  We can not serve our mission without your support. The safety net and flexibility that our donors and volunteers provide truly stabilizes and empowers our work. 

5.  Especially in the face of political extremism, rest, joy, and community-building are essential forms of resistance.

If you’re angry or scared at times, we’re right there with you. But just like you, we’re also resilient. Scrappy. Compassionate. Innovative. Dedicated. Like many times in our 45-year history, together with our community of supporters (like you!), we will fight to meet the moment and the needs of our clients and community.

We’ll leave you with an anecdote from our incoming Co-Executive Director, Takao Suzuki:

“This year has been overwhelming, to say the least. But a few weeks ago, we made ‘welcome baskets’ for the residents of our brand new affordable housing project, Santa Monica & Vermont Apartments. Talking, laughing and sweating next to my colleagues and volunteers as we assembled gifts to welcome our residents home was a grounding reminder for me, that this is the feeling. This is why we do the work. This is why I dedicate my career to this mission. And when I think back to moments like that, the work doesn’t seem quite so heavy. I’m surrounded by the best people, every day, working together towards the same goal. Especially in times like these, we need to lean into our communities, our connectedness, and our joy. It won’t be easy, but we’re not doing it alone.”