About L.A.U.R.A.
Life After Uncivil Ruthless Acts — dedicated to enhancing the quality of life of residents in South Central Los Angeles, CA.
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.
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.
Founded From Tragedy.
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 murder 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 or loved one has to face the pain of having someone murdered alone.
Our Strategy
Three interconnected pillars drive our trauma-informed 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. Through trauma-informed, healing-centered support, we meet individuals where they are and help them heal, grow, and thrive.
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 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.
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
Yadira Hernandez Herrera
Chair / Co-Executive Director
Cynthia Lara
Board Member
Dominik Onate
Treasurer
Olivia E. Fulton-Palma
Secretary
Mark Wilson
Board Member
Staff
Yari Herrera
Finance Coordinator
Vanessa Biurcos
Outreach Coordinator / Co-Executive Director
Kim McGill
Community Organizer
Our Partners
Organizations standing alongside us in service to the South Central Los Angeles community.
