Social Networks

Pacoima and Panorama City in the San Fernando Valley actually have a large social network of organizations and agencies structured around making the community a better place. Although the communities are known for low resources, poverty, poor academic achievement and high gang violence, members of the community are working to bring positive changes to Pacoima and Panorama City. Through developing programs and activities targeted to impact at risk- youth, the community is making improvements. Teachers, police officers, city hall representatives, social workers, gang interventionists and youth are pulling together to empower their community. Here are a few examples of social networks:

COMMUNITIES IN SCHOOLS
-Has Hardcore Gang Interventionist on staff to help reach youth involved in gangs and all at-risk youth.

- Empower youth by having them help run programs.

-Provide alternatives to keep youth off the streets through sports, DJ Academy, tutoring and therapy.

LOS ANGELES POLICE DEPARTMENT
-Works with Communities In Schools to assess and discuss the gang coalitions.

-Refers gang members to different agencies such as Community In School to prevent retaliation.

-Collaborate with agencies such as San Fernando Valley Coalition on Gangs, Los Angeles Fire Department, Los Angeles Public Works and San Fernando Valley Faith Coalition etc.

PASTOR SAM - FAITH-BASED SERVICES
-Adopt a school in San Fernando Valley to work in building faith and creating change

-Has been doing Octofest, Thanksgiving Feast and Christmas programs to aid the community for over 15 years.

-Presides over funerals of youth who fall victim to gang violence and provides counseling to the families.

BOYS AND GIRLS CLUB OF SAN FERNANDO VALLEY

-A positive and safe place for low income kids to spend time together regardless of their race and socioeconomic background.

-Provides tutoring and mentoring to children at the club.

-Works with other community agencies to develop programs for the youth in Pacoima, Panorama City and San Fernando Valley.

PACOIMA COMMUNITY CENTER / PACOIMA BEAUTIFUL

-Serves as a place to bring the community together through programs and activities.

-Helps create a better environment for the people of Pacoima.

-Empowers local students to be leaders in the community to advocate for positive changes.