First 5 Los Angeles

First 5 LA Logo

2013 First 5 LA's Grants

First 5 Los Angeles is a leading non-profit organization dedicated to improving the lives of young children and their families in Los Angeles County, California. Established in 1998, this organization focuses on early childhood education, health care, and family support services with the aim of ensuring that children are healthy, safe, and ready to learn. It operates under the guidance of the California Children and Families Act, also known as Proposition 10, which was passed by voters in 1998 and imposes a tax on tobacco products to fund programs for children up to the age of five.

History

Following the approval of Proposition 10 in 1998, First 5 Los Angeles was created to oversee the allocation and administration of the funds generated from the tobacco tax within Los Angeles County. The initiative was part of a statewide effort to enhance early childhood development services, recognizing the critical importance of the first five years of life in a child's long-term development.

Mission and Vision

The mission of First 5 Los Angeles is to improve the health, education, and well-being of young children in Los Angeles County. Its vision encompasses a future where every child in the county enters kindergarten ready to succeed in school and life. To achieve this, First 5 LA invests in programs and advocates for policies that focus on the whole child, including physical health, emotional well-being, and educational readiness.

Programs and Initiatives

First 5 LA funds and supports a variety of programs and initiatives aimed at children aged 0-5, their families, and communities. These include:

• Early childhood education programs to prepare children for kindergarten
• Health and nutrition programs to ensure children grow up healthy
• Parenting workshops to support families in their parenting journey
• Advocacy efforts to influence policy and resource allocation for early childhood services

Impact

Over the years, First 5 LA has made significant contributions to the well-being of children and families in Los Angeles County. Through its funded programs, the organization has helped to increase access to quality early childhood education, improve health outcomes for young children, and support families in need. Its work has also led to increased awareness and advocacy for early childhood development issues at both the local and state levels.

Governance

First 5 LA is governed by a Board of Commissioners that includes members appointed by the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors, as well as representatives from the fields of health, education, and early childhood development. The Board oversees the strategic direction, policy development, and funding decisions of the organization.

Challenges and Future Directions

Despite its successes, First 5 LA faces ongoing challenges, including the need for sustainable funding sources and adapting to the changing needs of children and families in Los Angeles County. The organization continues to explore innovative solutions and partnerships to expand its impact and ensure that all children in the county have the opportunity to thrive.