Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Emerita Flores. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Emerita, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Let’s kick things off with talking about how you serve the underserved, because in our view this is one of the most important things the small business community does for society – by serving those who the giant corporations ignore, small business helps create a more inclusive and just world for all of us.
Meet Emerita, a resilient woman, and a mother of two. Determined to make a difference in her community, she co-founded Impact LA, a nonprofit organization dedicated to serving underserved communities in Los Angeles.
Emerita’s journey to founding Impact LA with her friend of 13 years wasn’t the easiest decision to make financially at the moment but witnessing the hardships of her surroundings inspired Emerita to take action.
Impact LA launched various programs aimed at empowering families, including summer programs, meal programs, various giveaways and camps for kids. Through these initiatives, Emerita and her team provided a lifeline to thousands of individuals and families, helping them build brighter futures for themselves and their children.
Through both Courtney’s and Emerita’s dedication and passion, Impact LA has turned into a trusted resource for underserved communities in Los Angeles and other areas in California, providing support, advocacy, and opportunities for those who need it most.
Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.
My personal experiences growing up in a marginalized community ignited a fire within me to address the systemic barriers faced by those living on the fringes of society. Witnessing the struggles and injustices faced by individuals and families inspired me to take action and create a platform for positive change.
The inception of Impact LA was a natural progression of my commitment to making a tangible difference in the lives of others. Recognizing the pressing need for access to basic necessities like nutritious meals, especially for children.
Our approach goes beyond simply distributing meals. We work closely with various vendors, community organizations, and stakeholders to ensure that the unique needs of each community we serve are not only met but exceeded. Collaboration is at the heart of everything we do, and it’s this collaborative spirit that sets us apart from others in the field.
One of the things I’m most proud of is our ability to adapt and innovate in the face of challenges. Whether it’s navigating logistical hurdles or responding to evolving community needs, we remain agile and proactive in our approach. Our dedication to continuous improvement drives us to explore new avenues and partnerships, always with the goal of maximizing our impact and reach.
In essence, I invite you to join us on this journey of empowerment and transformation. Together, we can make a meaningful difference and build a more inclusive and equitable society for generations to come. Thank you for your support and belief in our mission.
Can you tell us the story behind how you met your business partner?
It was a serendipitous encounter that brought Courtney Lockridge and I together, laying the foundation for what would become an impactful journey in serving underserved communities. The year was 2011, and I was in the midst of applying for a site coordinator position at a nonprofit organization dedicated to working with children in after-school programs across Los Angeles and Inglewood. Little did I know, this moment would mark the beginning of a transformative partnership.
As I navigated through the application process, fate intervened, leading me to cross paths with Courtney, who held the role of HR director at the organization. Our initial meeting was more than just a professional exchange; it was the spark that ignited a shared passion for making a difference in the lives of those who needed it most.
Over the years, our paths continued to intertwine within the nonprofit sector. Through hard work, dedication, and a shared commitment to our mission, both Courtney and I experienced growth within our respective roles. Eventually, circumstances aligned, leading to the decision to relocate my office space to the bustling downtown LA office where Courtney worked.
Amidst the hustle and bustle of our shared workspace, our friendship blossomed, and we soon discovered a remarkable similarity in our aspirations and dreams. We were both deeply inspired by the noble work of the organization’s founder, yet we also recognized the importance of creating an entity that remained unwavering in its dedication to its cause, prioritizing impact over profit.
With unwavering determination and a shared sense of purpose, Courtney and I embarked on a journey to create Impact LA—a nonprofit organization born out of a profound belief in the power of community, empathy, and collective action. Together, we are committed to honoring the spirit of our shared vision, ensuring that Impact LA remains steadfast in its mission to uplift and empower those in need, one life at a time.
What do you think helped you build your reputation within your market?
My reputation within the nonprofit world has been built on a foundation of authenticity, compassion, and integrity. My commitment to serving underserved communities without resorting to empty promises or bullshit has earned me the trust and respect of those I serve. My resourcefulness and ability to leverage my extensive knowledge and connections over two decades demonstrate my dedication to making a meaningful impact. Moreover, my flexibility and open-mindedness allow me to adapt to the evolving needs of the communities I serve, ensuring that our organization remains relevant and effective. Overall, our reputation is a testament to our genuine passion for helping others and unwavering commitment to making a positive difference in the world.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://impactla.org
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/weimpactla?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/weimpactLA
- Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/emeritaLflores