A Message From Our CEO
Dear Friends,
The LA River is a lot of different things at once — it’s an iconic LA landmark, a vital resource for our city, a powerful tool for addressing the challenges of climate change — but most importantly, it’s your neighborhood River. It connects us all, from Canoga Park to Long Beach, and offers a chance for every community to learn, grow and thrive. At Friends of the LA River, we believe the River belongs to everyone, and we’re working hard to make sure its potential is unlocked for all Angelenos.
This year, we’ve made some big strides in making the River a resource for education, equity, and environmental justice. Here are a few of our key wins:
Environmental Justice Representation: FoLAR has been appointed to the Lower LA River Watershed Steering Committee, where we now serve as the Environmental Justice seat. This role gives us a direct voice in decisions that will shape the River’s restoration, ensuring that historically marginalized communities have a say in the future of their River. Community Engagement in Restoration: We’ve taken on the critical role of convener, bringing together stakeholders to engage with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers on their dredging project in the Glendale Narrows. By facilitating feedback and fostering collaboration, we’re ensuring the River’s restoration is inclusive and responsive to community needs. Leadership in Equitable Development: FoLAR has been named one of three organizational leaders in the Taylor Yard Equity Strategy, a key initiative to ensure that development around the River serves the needs of all Angelenos, especially those in underserved communities. These milestones ensure our community will continue to have a voice in shaping the River’s present and future — but they’re also just the beginning. We’re building programs to connect Angelenos of all ages to their River, from hands-on educational experiences to community events
that foster connection with the River as a natural resource. We’re also working to ensure that the benefits of a restored River — including cleaner air, healthier ecosystems, and climate resilience in every neighborhood — are equitably enjoyed by all of our neighbors. Together, we are making the LA River a hub of education, equity, and environmental justice — a River that connects and enriches all of us. Thank you for being part of this journey and for helping us bring this vision to life.
With gratitude, Candice Dickens-Russell President & CEO
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