LA Forward Institute

The LA Forward family of organizations is dedicated to the practice of democracy locally. We organize people, money, and information to build power so we can pass and implement policies that make Los Angeles County a fair, flourishing place for everyone.

Our mission is to help fulfill the promise of democracy and empower Angelenos with the knowledge, skills, and relationships needed to promote effective, equitable, and responsive government and advance social, economic, and racial justice across a wide range of issues, including housing, homelessness, climate, transportation, infrastructure, unarmed crisis response, criminal justice, a fair economy, good government, and more.

We work in solidarity with partners across the region and mobilize our cross-class, intergenerational, and multi-racial base. We run advocacy and electoral campaigns that promote bold, progressive policies. We hold education, training, and research programs that prepare our base for powerful action, strengthen democracy, and advance racial and economic justice. We are known for our multi-issue, holistic approach to tackling the biggest challenges facing the region today. We respond nimbly to whatever is needed most in the moment and take bold steps to dismantle unjust systems and structures that perpetuate deeply embedded and longstanding inequalities. We envision a Los Angeles County where our public institutions operate effectively to ensure that all people can live with dignity and reach their full potential. We currently have more than 10,000 people on our email list, nearly 300 active members, and dozens of leaders in our issue and regional groups.

The LA Forward family of organizations is composed of multiple entities, including two legally-distinct nonprofits – LA Forward Institute, which is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, and LA Forward, which is a 501(c)(4) nonprofit. LA Forward also owns LA Podcast LLC, which produces and distributes civic media content, and sponsors Political Action Committees which make direct contributions to candidates and make Independent Expenditures in key races.