Resolve to Give Back: Supporting Local Charities in Los Angeles in 2025
Los Angeles is a city built on dreams, diversity, and a deep sense of community. What better way to start the new year than by giving back to the incredible local organizations that make our city shine even brighter? Whether it’s rescuing surplus food with Food Cycle LA, preserving the iconic beauty of Griffith Park with Friends of Griffith Park, supporting former gang members through the transformative work of Homeboy Industries, or celebrating cinema at Vidiots, there’s no shortage of inspiring causes to support. Ready to make 2025 the year of impact? We’ve curated a list of 15 amazing Los Angeles charities where you can donate, volunteer, and make a difference. Dive in and discover how you can help shape a better L.A. for all!
Los Angeles Regional Food Bank
The Los Angeles Regional Food Bank works tirelessly to combat hunger across L.A. County. They distribute millions of pounds of food annually to children, families, and seniors in need through a network of partner agencies and direct distribution programs. Their initiatives also include nutrition education and advocacy.
How to Donate: Financial donations help fund food purchases, distribution, and programs. Non-perishable food items can be donated at designated drop-off locations.
How to Volunteer: Individuals and groups can volunteer to sort and pack food at their warehouse or assist at food distribution events.
Friends of Griffith Park
Dedicated to preserving the natural and historical treasures of Griffith Park, this nonprofit focuses on conservation, habitat restoration, and advocacy. They also offer educational programs to inspire stewardship.
How to Donate: Support their efforts with a monetary donation through their website.
How to Volunteer: Opportunities include habitat restoration, trail maintenance, and event support.
Food Cycle LA
Food Cycle LA rescues surplus food from businesses and redistributes it to hunger relief organizations. They work to address food insecurity while reducing food waste across Los Angeles. In 2024, FoodCycle LA provided over 8 million meals to communities in need across Los Angeles, diverting food that would have otherwise gone to waste and transforming it into nourishment for people facing food insecurity. FoodCycle LA’s work does more than simply feed people – it fosters a brighter, more sustainable future for everyone. And with your help, they’re just getting started!
How to Donate: Financial donations help fund transportation and logistics for food rescue efforts.
How to Volunteer: Sign up to assist with food pickups, deliveries, or community outreach initiatives.
Friends of the Los Angeles River (FoLAR)
FoLAR is committed to revitalizing the Los Angeles River through cleanup events, restoration projects, and advocacy for sustainable water management. Their programs aim to transform the river into a thriving natural resource for the community.
How to Donate: Contributions help fund cleanups, advocacy efforts, and educational programs.
How to Volunteer: Participate in river cleanup events or assist with educational outreach.
Vidiots
Vidiots is a nonprofit organization dedicated to the preservation and celebration of film culture. Recently reopened in Eagle Rock, they operate a cinema, video store, and community space. Vidiots hosts screenings, workshops, and educational events for cinephiles of all ages.
How to Donate: Monetary donations can be made online to support programming, restoration efforts, and community outreach.
How to Volunteer: Volunteers can assist with events, archival projects, or community engagement initiatives.
Los Angeles Review of Books (LARB)
LARB supports literature and culture by publishing book reviews, essays, and interviews. They also organize events and provide fellowships to emerging writers, fostering a vibrant literary community in Los Angeles.
How to Donate: Financial contributions support their publishing platform and writer programs.
How to Volunteer: Opportunities include event assistance, editorial support, or promotional outreach.
Our Big Kitchen Los Angeles
Our Big Kitchen focuses on preparing and distributing meals to shelters and underserved communities while fostering a sense of connection among volunteers.
How to Donate: Donate funds or sponsor a meal preparation session.
How to Volunteer: Sign up for shifts to help prepare and package meals.
https://www.instagram.com/p/DDXhHBhy-WF/?hl=en
L.A. Works
L.A. Works mobilizes Angelenos to volunteer for a variety of causes, from homelessness and education to environmental restoration. They host service projects, corporate volunteer programs, and workshops to equip participants with leadership skills for social impact.
How to Donate: Visit their website to make monetary donations that support their programming.
How to Volunteer: Sign up for individual, group, or corporate volunteering opportunities through their website.
Downtown Women’s Center (DWC)
The Downtown Women’s Center is the only organization in Los Angeles exclusively dedicated to addressing the needs of women experiencing homelessness. They provide permanent supportive housing, health and wellness services, and job readiness programs tailored to women. DWC is a vital resource for creating stability and independence in the lives of women in need.
How to Donate: Make a financial contribution through their website or donate essential items like toiletries and clothing to their “Wishlist.”
How to Volunteer: Volunteers can assist with meal preparation, wellness workshops, or administrative tasks. Visit their website to sign up.
TreePeople
TreePeople empowers individuals and communities to take care of Los Angeles’ urban forests through tree planting, education, and advocacy. Their mission is to combat climate change, restore watersheds, and create a sustainable and green L.A.
How to Donate: Contributions support tree planting initiatives and educational programs.
How to Volunteer: Join tree planting events, forest restoration projects, or water management efforts by signing up on their website.
Heal the Bay
Heal the Bay is a nonprofit dedicated to protecting the coastal waters and watersheds of Greater Los Angeles. They advocate for clean water, organize beach cleanups, and run the Heal the Bay Aquarium to educate the public about marine conservation.
How to Donate: Financial donations fund cleanup initiatives, advocacy efforts, and aquarium operations.
How to Volunteer: Participate in monthly beach cleanups, join their Speaker’s Bureau, or help with aquarium programs.
LA Animal Rescue
LA Animal Rescue provides shelter and care for abandoned, abused, and neglected animals. They operate a no-kill sanctuary and work tirelessly to find loving homes for pets while also educating the community about responsible pet ownership.
How to Donate: Monetary donations and wish-list items (like pet food, toys, and blankets) can be given through their website.
How to Volunteer: Volunteers can assist with animal care, adoption events, or sanctuary maintenance.
Los Angeles LGBT Center
The Los Angeles LGBT Center provides comprehensive services for the LGBTQ+ community, including healthcare, housing, education, and advocacy. They offer youth programs, support for seniors, and legal assistance, making them a cornerstone of support for LGBTQ+ individuals in Los Angeles.
How to Donate: Donations support housing programs, health services, and advocacy campaigns.
How to Volunteer: Opportunities include assisting at the Pride Pantry, mentoring youth, or helping with special events like Pride celebrations.
AIDS Walk Los Angeles
AIDS Walk Los Angeles is an annual event that raises funds and awareness to combat the AIDS epidemic. Proceeds support local organizations providing medical care, HIV testing, and community outreach programs. The walk also serves as a powerful reminder of the need for continued advocacy and education.
How to Donate: Individuals can donate directly or sponsor participants in the walk. Corporate sponsorship opportunities are also available.
How to Volunteer: Volunteers can help with event planning, participant registration, or day-of activities like water station management and crowd guidance.
Homeboy Industries
Homeboy Industries offers hope, training, and support to formerly gang-involved and previously incarcerated individuals, helping them reintegrate into society. Their services include job training, tattoo removal, therapy, and education. They also operate social enterprises like Homeboy Bakery and Homegirl Café.
How to Donate: Financial donations support rehabilitation programs and social enterprises.
How to Volunteer: Volunteers can mentor program participants, assist in workshops, or provide professional skills training.
Cheers to giving back and supporting local Los Angeles causes in 2025 and beyond!
Jacqueline Tager | DRE# 1476997
jacqueline.tager@sothebyshomes.com | (323) 697-3040
Sotheby’s International Realty – Los Feliz Brokerage
1801 N Hillhurst Avenue Los Angeles, CA 90027
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by Jacqueline Tager, Sotheby’s International Realty.
Contact me:
Jacqueline Tager
DRE#: 01476997
jacqueline.tager@sothebyshomes
(323) 697-3040
Sotheby’s International Realty
1801 N Hillhurst Avenue Los Angeles, CA 90027
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