L.A.U.R.A | About Us

Mission Statement

Our Mission

L.A.U.R.A. is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for residents of South Central Los Angeles by empowering youth, supporting victim-survivors and families, and mobilizing the community through civic awareness, collaboration, and access to critical resources.

Vision

We envision a thriving, safe, and sustainable South Central Los Angeles — where families are supported through loss, youth are protected from violence, and communities are united through peace-driven action.

Our Story

Founded From Loss. Built on Purpose.

L.A.U.R.A. was founded by Adela Barajas, a lifelong South Central Los Angeles resident, after the murder of her sister-in-law, Laura Sanchez — an innocent bystander killed in a drive-by shooting in 2007. Laura was a loving mother of four whose life was taken while parking her family van in front of her home.

This loss came less than a decade after Laura’s mother, Irene Cruz, was also killed in a drive-by shooting.

Through grief came purpose. L.A.U.R.A. was created in Laura’s memory to transform tragedy into action and ensure that no family in South Central Los Angeles has to face loss alone.

Support Our Mission

Our Strategy

Three interconnected pillars drive our work toward lasting change.

Safety Net for Victims of Crime & Survivors

Walking alongside the loved ones of murder victims.

We’ve supported families through crisis and grief since 2007. L.A.U.R.A. serves as a safety net for families impacted by homicide and violent crime, walking alongside loved ones through the most difficult moments of their lives.

Candle vigils & referrals
Funeral assistance
Navigating legal, medical, and support systems
Crisis response and emotional support
Support groups for healing and connection
Transporting remains out of the country

Why it matters: Violence leaves lasting trauma. Compassionate, consistent support helps families heal and rebuild.

Youth Leadership & Empowerment

Prevention starts with opportunity.

L.A.U.R.A. invests in young people by creating safe spaces, leadership opportunities, and pathways to success. Our youth programs focus on prevention, healing, and empowerment to help youth avoid gang involvement and reach their full potential.

Leadership development and youth forums
Violence prevention and early intervention
Peer-to-peer counseling and group therapy
Youth employment readiness and job exposure
College preparation and educational guidance
Family reunification and support services

Why it matters: When youth feel supported, heard, and valued, cycles of violence are disrupted before they begin.

Civic Engagement & Community Safety

Stronger communities create safer neighborhoods.

We connect thousands of residents to vital resources each year. L.A.U.R.A. works alongside residents, local leaders, and law enforcement to improve public safety and quality of life in South Central Los Angeles.

Facilitating community collaboration and partnerships
Supporting city service access and City Council engagement
Community beautification and clean-up initiatives
Advocacy for improved parks and public spaces
Supporting economic growth and local businesses
Building law enforcement / community relations

Why it matters: When residents are informed, engaged, and connected, communities become safer, healthier, and more resilient.

Leadership

Our Leadership

Our dedicated board members bring diverse expertise and a shared commitment to advancing L.A.U.R.A.'s mission in South Central Los Angeles.

Adela Barajas

Founder & Executive Director

Adela Barajas and seven other siblings grew up in the South Central Los Angeles area. When her sister-in-law, Laura, was murdered in a drive-by shooting, she was compelled to become part of the solution — becoming a community advocate committed to turning tragedy into positive outcomes for her family and community.

Yadira Hernandez Herrera

President & C.E.O.

Communities for a Better Environment

Biography information coming soon.

Mark Wilson

President & C.E.O.

Coalition for Responsible Community Development

Mark Anthony Wilson, Jr. co-founded CRCD in 2005 and served as Executive Director for a decade. Raised in South Los Angeles, he previously directed the Youth Empowerment Project with the Southern Christian Leadership Conference and the Director of Community Development with the Dunbar Economic Development Corporation.