When Jazz Brand walks into a room, he brings more than a warm smile and a calm, steady presence — he brings hope. As a dedicated volunteer collaborator at Resilient Agency, Jazz has worked tirelessly to bridge gaps in resources, amplify community voices, and stand alongside residents most impacted by violence in Los Angeles. Whether distributing food, delivering meals to those unable to leave their homes, or connecting community members to critical supports, Jazz embodies Resilient’s mission to strengthen personal resilience, foster leadership, and promote community restoration.

Eddie Tobar and Phillip Ross first met in a mentor–mentee relationship that has grown into a powerful partnership. For 20 years, Phillip has coached and encouraged Eddie, who now leads alongside him at Resilient. Together, they provide case management, mentorship, and family support, while also leading workshops on anger management and coping skills. Their work extends into schools and neighborhoods through food distributions, murals, and youth programming, including the Department of Youth Development’s Reentry Action for Youth (RAY) Program.

Located in the heart of Los Angeles, Resilient Agency partner New Village Girls Academy—led by Principal Jennifer Quinones— is redefining alternative education for girls grades 9-12 and partnering with community-based organizations like Resilient Agency to provide New Village students, their families, and the larger community with the resources they need to overcome challenges and thrive. Learn more about how Principal Quinones and her team of compassionate educators are paving the path toward a more empathetic alt-ed program that is acting as a model for alternative rehabilitation programs for justice-involved girls in LA.

Volunteer Rodolfo Alamillo helps lead Resilient Agency’s mobile food distributions, delivering fresh, nutritious groceries to families across Los Angeles. Amid crises from wildfires to SNAP cuts, his work ensures thousands of neighbors stay nourished and connected—embodying the compassion, adaptability, and resilience that define our community.

Executive Director Michael Guedel reflects on Resilient Agency’s seven-year journey, from its beginnings in South LA to its expanded work across LA County. He shares insights on peacebuilding, community health, crisis response, and his vision for strengthening families and neighborhoods in the years ahead.