Meet our
coalition members
JC Lacey
President, Crenshaw Chamber of Commerce
The Crenshaw Chamber of Commerce, led by President JC Lacey, has championed business growth and community vitality in South Los Angeles for more than 80 years. Serving the Crenshaw Corridor, the Chamber drives economic opportunity by equipping small and emerging businesses with training, resources, and strategic connections to help them thrive. Under Lacey’s leadership, it continues to unite local entrepreneurs, city chambers, corporations, and residents to build a strong and resilient commercial ecosystem. Through its advocacy, partnerships, and support for local commerce and culture, the Crenshaw Chamber strengthens the region’s economic foundation while fostering pride and investment in the community.
“City services are the backbone of daily life in Los Angeles—preserving them and avoiding layoffs ensures our communities stay safe, supported, and thriving.”
Sol Tellez
Executive Director, Cristo Viene Ministries
Cristo Viene Ministries, founded by the late Pastors Al and Frances Tellez, has long served as a beacon of hope and transformation in Los Angeles. Delivered from a life of gangs and addiction, Pastor Al—together with Frances—built a ministry dedicated to guiding people out of cycles of substance abuse and despair through faith in Jesus Christ. Today, under the leadership of Executive Director Sol Tellez, the church council continues to carry forward that legacy by offering Christ-centered rehabilitation programs, community outreach, and spiritual renewal. Cristo Viene remains a powerful force for healing and restoration, strengthening lives and communities across Los Angeles.
“Es fundamental para la ciudad de Los Ángeles proteger nuestra calidad de vida, atender a las poblaciones vulnerables y prevenir el declive económico.”
Monalisa Okojie
Founder and CEO, Expose
EXPOSE, led by Founder and CEO Monalisa Okojie, is a Los Angeles–based nonprofit advancing educational access, economic mobility, and mental wellness in underserved communities. Rooted in the heart of Los Angeles, Monalisa has built strong partnerships with LAUSD schools, local universities, and community organizations to deliver culturally grounded programs that uplift thousands of youth and families across the city and beyond. Her visionary leadership continues to expand EXPOSE’s impact, helping dismantle systemic barriers and creating pathways for Angelenos—and communities nationwide—to thrive.
“It is critical for the City of Los Angeles to save essential city services and avoid layoffs because these services are the backbone of our communities. Protecting them ensures stability, access, and support for residents who rely on them every day.”
Angela Gibson-Shaw
President, GLAAAC
The Greater Los Angeles African American Chamber of Commerce (GLAAAC) was established in 1991 by a group of business owners and executives led by Gene Hale, President of G&C Equipment Corporation and the late Homer Broome, former president of Marvid Associates. Their vision was to create an organization that would serve as an advocate for African American-owned business enterprises and to promote their growth and expansion into the international arena. Currently led by Angela Gibson-Shaw, President of GLAAAC. Angela is a graduate of the African American Board Leadership Institute and attended West LA College and the Mendoza School of Business Chamber Training Institute. For her commitment, she has been honored by National Congress of Black Women, 94.7 The Wave, GLAAACC, the National Congress of Black Women-LA Chapter, National Action Network LA, LA Focus, and others.
“When city services are cut, the burden falls hardest on our most vulnerable communities. Preserving these jobs ensures stability, equity, and opportunity for all Angelenos.”
Rick L. Callender
President, NAACP branch for CA/HI State Conference
The NAACP advocates, agitates, and litigates for civil rights due to Black America. Under the current Presidency of Rick L. Callender, they remain committed to “a world without racism where Black people enjoy equitable opportunities in thriving communities.” A lifelong advocate, he has been a member of the National NAACP’s Powerful Resolutions Committee since 2001 and previously served as President of the San Jose–Silicon Valley NAACP. Beyond his civil rights leadership, Mr. Callender is Chief Executive Officer of Valley Water, where he oversees the delivery of safe, clean water, flood protection, and environmental stewardship for 1.9 million residents of Santa Clara County.
“NAACP CA/HI urges the City leaders of Los Angeles to protect city services and avoid layoffs. Elected officials have a fiduciary responsibility to the people of Los Angeles. Operating a budget on a deficit directly impacts communities of color who are already facing challenges with access to safe streets, clean water, and critical programs that most take for granted. City leaders need to balance budgets without balancing them on the backs of working families.”
Eric Quiles
Head Pastor, Potters House Church of LA
The Potters House Church of Los Angeles is a Christian church that is serving the communities of Lynwood, Compton, and throughout the city of Los Angeles through prayer, training, investing, and supporting missionaries around the world. They use various methods to take the gospel of Jesus Christ to those who feel lost, burdened, bound, and hopeless. Pastor Eric Quiles has been serving as Pastor since 2020. He has pioneered churches in Bellflower, Watts, and New York. He has also preached the gospel of Jesus Christ and the power of healing throughout the world, and has opened churches in Bellflower, Watts, and New York. He is passionate to help empower men to step up to their calling in the world.
“I believe it is critical for the City of Los Angeles to save city services that are provided to local residents. We want our communities to thrive, and that is only possible with the help of these services. Many individuals depend on city resources, and layoffs only create more stress on fellow Angelenos.”
Jesse De La Cruz
Founder and CEO, Urbano Strategies
Urbano Strategies, founded and led by Jesse De La Cruz, is a South Los Angeles–based organization dedicated to putting community voices at the center of neighborhood change. For more than a decade, Jesse has drawn on his South LA roots to turn lived experience into action—revitalizing vacant spaces into parks and urban farms, rallying residents for policy wins, and driving new investments into overlooked communities. By training and employing local residents to plan, organize, and advocate for public projects, Urbano Strategies ensures Los Angeles development reflects the people who live there. Guided by a vision of an inclusive city shaped from the ground up, the organization continues to champion equity, opportunity, and community-led transformation.
“Saving our city services is about protecting our communities. Layoffs don't just cost individuals their jobs; they cost our communities the very foundation of safety, health, and well being we all depend on.”
Nathan D. Arias
Chief Executive Officer, Soledad Enrichment Action
For more than 30 years, Soledad Enrichment Action (SEA) has been empowering youth, families, and communities in underserved areas to become self-determined, contributing members of society by providing guidance, resources, and support. Nathan D. Arias, Chief Executive Officer, with over 31 years of experience successfully leading and developing teams, has led SEA for the past 15 years. His leadership, education, and experience in finance, operations, and community work have been instrumental in helping SEA to become a leading provider of wraparound and social support services to gang and violence-affected individuals, families, and communities in some of the most under-resourced cities and communities in Southern California. He oversees a staff of over 145 employees. Mr. Arias is a visionary leader who has taken SEA to exciting new heights. Under the leadership of Mr. Arias, SEA has grown to be the largest gang violence prevention and intervention provider.
“Preserving city services and avoiding layoffs is critical to ensuring the people of Los Angeles continue to receive essential support, from public safety to community resources. Every job saved helps protect the stability and well-being of our neighborhoods.”
Brandon Howard
President and CEO, Hope Is Hear Foundation
Hope is Hear Foundation was founded by Brandon Howard, affectionately known as B. Howard. He is a Billboard-charting artist, songwriter, and producer whose music has connected with audiences worldwide, from Don’t Say You Love Me to his version of Liberian Girl, which landed on U.S. Pop Radio and the UK charts. He is focusing on emotional wellness and supporting children and young adults who are underprivileged, gifted, autistic, or simply in need of a safe space. Howard has also partnered with Metro Ministries in Tampa, helping provide meals and encouragement to families. Through both his artistry and philanthropy, he continues to use his platform to uplift, inspire, and bring people together.
“City services are the heartbeat of Los Angeles — protecting them means protecting our people, our art, and our future. We can’t afford to let that rhythm stop.”