October 19, 2023

Diana Pinto – Executive Director, South Central Los Angeles Ministry Project (SC LAMP)

On Saturday, September 23rd, South Central LAMP recently marked its 30th anniversary with a beautiful celebration. A reception, self-guided tours of the campus, and a luncheon made for a most special day. During the program, we honored Northgate Gonzalez Markets, with the Outstanding Community Partner Award; Nancee Lee Allen, former South Central LAMP Executive Director, with the Guiding Star Award; and via video, the Mayor of Los Angeles, Karen Bass, with the Crusader Award.

A highlight of the afternoon was hearing from LAMP alumna Alicia Fuentes ’11 (pictured), whose daughter, Alison, started attending LAMP when she was 2 years old. Alicia shared, “when we first started, I was a bit discouraged since my daughter did not speak. Her teacher told me not to worry because Alison would learn. In a few months, I saw my daughter speak and socialize. I took English and parenting classes, and I learned the importance of literature and volunteering. LAMP helped me have more confidence as a woman. I was inspired after I graduated, and I got my GED.”

In her reflection, Executive Director Diana Z. Pinto shared from the heart. “I have to say thank you to the eight congregations of women religious that started LAMP. Thirty years ago, they had a vision of what supporting the community looked like. Honestly, I think they were ahead of their time. They created a program that served both women and children.” We are blessed by our founding Orders, including the Society of the Holy Child Jesus, for their fidelity and continued dedication to the families we serve.