Days in LA
Get off the bluff, learn, and connect!
Want to get off the bluff with other faculty?
Interested in learning more about Los Angeles and the social justice issues facing the region?
Los Angeles is a complex, diverse, and fascinating location to live and work. Whether you're a lifelong LA resident or just moving here, there's always more to learn about this city, including its past, present, and future.
Join us for Days in LA, a series of opportunities specifically for faculty to venture off campus with to get to know one another and the community of which we're a part. You'll learn about Los Angeles and some of the issues facing our region, better understand how acting for justice is an integral element of LMU's mission, and make your own contribution toward a stronger and more just community. Plus, you'll connect with colleagues and enjoy some time away from your office, classroom, and email inbox.
Space is limited and first-come, first-served, so sign up now to guarantee your spot! While these programs are designed to complement Ongoing New Faculty Orientation, all faculty are welcome to participate.
These programs are sponsored by the Pam Rector Center for Service and Action, the Center for Mission and Identity, and the Center for Faculty Development.
Food and Housing: Grass Roots Neighbors
Cost of living in Los Angeles is high and rising. Housing and food insecurity are significant issues in the region, and many of our neighbors lack reliable shelter and nutrition. What drives this insecurity, and what actions can be taken to address it?
At Grass Roots Neighbors, a community partner located just a few blocks from LMU's back gates, we'll hear from community leaders and advocates about increasing access to food, housing, and support for our vulnerable neighbors, at both the individual and structural levels. Then we'll pitch in to prepare a meal using local produce and donated ingredients, a practice that also reduces food waste and improves sustainability.
Rescheduled: New date TBA
Dinner provided
Empowering Vulnerable Populations: South Central LAMP
South Central Los Angeles Ministry Project (South Central LAMP) was founded in response to the 1992 civil unrest in Los Angeles by a collaboration of eight congregations of Catholic sisters. They canvassed the neighborhood and asked how they could better support the community as it struggled to rebuild and survive. The sisters heard a desire from mothers to enhance their parenting skills, improve their English literacy, and prepare their children for school and later success in life. Today, South Central LAMP supports underserved local women, children, and families through a wide variety of support services, educational and health programs, and advocacy efforts - all provided at no cost to recipients.
Join us for a day of learning about the realities of South Central Los Angeles today, with particular attention to vulnerable populations and immigrant communities, as well as South Central LAMP's work to support them. We'll also pitch in on a volunteer project to help out the center. Lunch provided!
Friday, November 15 | 10:00 am - 2:00 pm
Transportation provided (departure/return on campus)
Who are our community partners?
The sites and organizations we visit through this program are those with whom LMU has an ongoing and sustained relationship, especially through the activities and programs of the Pam Rector Center for Service and Action. This includes regular student service engagement as well as community-based learning partnerships.
What is CBL and how can I learn more?
The Community-Based Learning Program is a form of service- or engaged learning that provides students with hands-on experience in local nonprofits. Students take CBL classes for academic credit while simultaneously engaging in organized service activities, guided reflection, and critical analysis; this may also satisfy the requirements of an Engaged Learning flag. Elements may include direct service, participatory action research, community immersion, and/or internships. The Center for Service and Action can provide guidance and assistance in exploring possibilities for you and your students. Learn more here!
Questions about this or other opportunities?
Email Kat Brown, Director of Mission and Identity Programs, at Katherine.Brown@lmu.edu.
Pam Rector Center for Service and Action
Service opportunities and support for integrating community-based learning
Center for Mission and Identity
More programs for faculty to learn and explore their engagement with mission