Dear Neighbors,
I hope you are embracing the transition to fall. With the new academic year underway, we have a variety of exciting events and valuable resources planned to assist you. Stay tuned for opportunities to engage and make the most of the month!
Resources
- Expand LA - Back to After School
- CalKIDS - The California Kids Investment and Development Savings Program
- HOPE - The California Hope, Opportunity, Perseverance, and Empowerment for Children Trust Account Program
- mDL - California's Mobile Driver’s License
- Real ID Deadline
Upcoming Events
- Thursday, September 12, 2024 – Fiesta De Las Américas
- Sunday, September 15, 2024 – Hispanic Heritage Month Celebration
- Saturday, September 21, 2024 – FurFest
- Saturday, September 21, 2024 – Health and Wellness Event
- Saturday, September 21, 2024 – Opera in the Park
- October Sneak Peek - Tuesday, October 1, 2024 – San Fernando Police Department National Night Out
August Event Recap
- Small Business of the Year
- National Night Out
- California Latino Legislative Caucus, and Women in California Leadership Minerva Scholarships
- Departing Ceremony
RESOURCES
Expand LA – Back to After School
Did you know?
- For every child enrolled in an after-school program, three are waiting to get in.
- 6 million children are left alone and unsupervised after school.
As families across Los Angeles City prepare for the new school year, it's crucial to also consider their after-school plans. ExpandLA, a coalition of over 230 after-school program providers, is committed to supporting, connecting, and advocating for equitable access to expanded learning opportunities for all children and youth in our area.
Back to After School campaign aims to spotlight the incredible enrichment activities and diverse experiences available through youth-serving organizations throughout Los Angeles County. The Back to After School flyer, which includes a QR code leading to their campaign landing page, is attached to this email. Here, families can explore a variety of after-school programs tailored to meet their needs.
Please take advantage of these valuable resources and ensure every student can access enriching after-school opportunities. For more details and to view the programs, visit the Back to After School Campaign page. Don’t let these opportunities slip away—enroll today and help your students make the most of their after-school hours!
CalKIDS
CalKIDS is a children’s savings account program designed to help children from low-income families save money for college or career training. This program was launched in 2022, providing investment deposits of up to $1,500 for 3.4 million low-income public school students in grades 1-12.
Children with a college savings account are three times more likely to enroll in college and nearly four times more likely to graduate than children without a savings account. For more information, visit CalKids.
HOPE
In a pioneering effort to combat racial wealth inequities and intergenerational poverty, California will implement the HOPE Act 37 starting in 2025. This program, a form of “baby bond,” is designed to provide financial support to approximately 58,500 children from low-income families who have experienced significant hardships, such as the loss of a parent or guardian due to COVID-19 or extended periods in foster care.
Under the HOPE Act 37, each eligible child will receive state-funded deposits into a designated account to accumulate $4,500 by 18. At this milestone, recipients will have the option to either withdraw the accumulated funds or allow them to remain invested for up to an additional eight years. This initiative represents a substantial investment in addressing the racial wealth gap and providing crucial financial support to those in need. For more information, please visit HOPE.
mDL - California's Mobile Driver’s License
California is launching its first Mobile Driver’s License (CDL) pilot program, offering enhanced convenience and security. This initiative allows participants to expedite airport identity verification, manage privacy during age-related transactions, and digitally carry their driver’s licenses on their smartphones.
Program Highlights:
- Airport Efficiency: Use the mDL for swift TSA PreCheck® access at SFO and LAX.
- Privacy Control: Regulate the information shared when purchasing adult beverages.
- Early Adoption: Join as one of this voluntary pilot's initial 1.5 million participants.
Enrollment Steps:
- Requirements: A smartphone and a valid California DL or ID.
- App Download: Obtain the CA DMV Wallet App from the Apple App Store or Google Play.
- IPhone: Requires iPhone 6s & 6s Plus with iOS 14 or newer.
- Android: Requires Android 8 or newer (EMUI 10-based devices are not supported).
- Setup: Open the app, login or create a MyDMV account, and follow the instructions to scan your DL or ID.
Participants are encouraged to act promptly as the pilot is limited to 1.5 million users. For further details, download the CA DMV Wallet App and enroll today.
Real ID Deadline
Starting on May 7, 2025, you will need to use your driver’s license to board domestic flights or gain entry into federal facilities.
The REAL ID Act mandates that identification for these purposes must meet specific federal standards designed to enhance security. Please visit your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) office to obtain a REAL ID. You must present documentation verifying your identity, residency, and lawful status within the United States.
Key Details:
- Effective Date: May 7, 2025
- Requirement: REAL ID for domestic air travel and federal facility access
- Action Required: Obtain a REAL ID by visiting the DMV
We encourage you to address this requirement in advance to avoid any inconvenience. For further information on obtaining a REAL ID and the necessary documentation, please visit dmv.ca.gov
EVENTS
Fiesta De Las Americas
Join us for an exciting evening celebrating vital community resources such as housing, medical services, county health department, immigration support, and more! Discover free services, enjoy vibrant performances, and savor delicious Central American and Mexican cuisine.
Thursday, September 12
5 - 8 p.m.
8551 Vesper Ave, Panorama City, CA 91402
For more details, call (866) 590-6411. Don’t miss this ultimate opportunity to connect and engage with your community!
Hispanic Heritage Month Celebration
Celebrate Latino Heritage Month with us! Enjoy live performances, explore a resource fair, and participate in a walk-up food distribution. It’s a fantastic opportunity to honor our rich heritage and connect with community resources. Don’t miss this vibrant event!
Sunday, September 15
1 - 6 p.m.
Plaza del Valle, 8610 Van Nuys Blvd, Panorama City, CA 91402
Health and Wellness Event
Enjoy health screenings, meet special guests, and more. Don’t miss this opportunity to prioritize your health and well-being!
Saturday, September 21
9 a.m. - 1 p.m.
11001 Sepulveda Blvd, Mission Hills, CA 91345
FurFest
Join us for FurFest! Celebrate pets and their people with pet resources, microchipping (for the first 100 pets), and refreshments. Enjoy giveaways and vaccines while supplies last. Please remember all dogs must be on a leash, and cats must be in a carrier. Don’t miss this fun and furry event!
Saturday, September 21
10 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Valley Plaza Park
12240 Archwood St., North Hollywood, CA 91606
Opera in the Park
Enjoy a free opera in the park with Madame Butterfly. Pack a picnic and bring lawn chairs for a delightful evening under the stars. Don’t miss this enchanting performance in a beautiful outdoor setting!
Saturday, September 21
6 p.m.
El Cariso Community Regional Park
13100 Hubbard St., Sylmar, CA 91342
OCTOBER SNEAK PEEK
San Fernando Police Department National Night Out
Join us for the San Fernando Police Department’s National Night Out. Enjoy an open house featuring free entertainment, activities for kids, and food trucks. Experience K-9 demonstrations and high-risk vehicle stop demonstrations, and get plenty of free public information. Plus, take free photos with the iconic '56 Chevy patrol car. Don’t miss this engaging and informative community event!
Tuesday, October 1
6 p.m.
910 1st St, San Fernando, CA 91340
AUGUST RECAP
Small Business of the Year
We're thrilled to celebrate Chula Chic LA as our 2024 Small Business of the Year!
Chula Chic LA, owned by the incredible Angelica Bañuelos, unites fashion with empowerment to uplift women and support the thriving community of Mexican artisans. Chula Chic LA is a beacon of entrepreneurship, community advocacy, and vision. Since its founding in San Fernando in July 2018, this boutique has become the go-to spot for genuine Mexican artisanal treasures.
Angelica's journey is a true inspiration. From her pivotal role at the Valley Economic Development Center to her current impact at the ICON Community Development Center, she's a force for positive change. Let's celebrate her ongoing service with the Pacoima and San Fernando Chambers of Commerce since 2014.
Besides being a business powerhouse, Angelica is a devoted mom, grandmother, and dog lover. Her vibrant Mexican heritage, especially her Guadalajara roots, drives Chula Chic LA's mission. Inspired by her father's entrepreneurial spirit, Angelica champions inclusivity, creativity, and authenticity daily.
Thank you, Angelica and Chula Chic LA, for your incredible contributions and for highlighting the power of small businesses in the San Fernando Valley.
National Night Out
My team participated in the National Night Out in Sun Valley, Mission Hills, and Panorama City. It’s always a great time when community members can come together and engage with first responders while enjoying family-friendly activities. Thank you to all the dedicated partners for putting together this annual event and sharing valuable resources
California Latino Legislative Caucus and Women in California Leadership Minerva Scholarships
It is an honor to recognize the recipients of AD 43’s California Latino Legislative Caucus and Women in California Leadership Minerva Scholarships. Annually, a select number of students from our community are awarded these prestigious scholarships based on their academic excellence and incredible dedication to community service.
Here are AD 43's 2024 scholarship honorees:
- Alexandra Najera: Charging ahead in her Master’s in Public Relations at USC, proudly representing Arleta.
- Sarah Garcia: Making strides as a Graduate Primary Care Physician Assistant student at USC, hailing from North Hollywood. (Not pictured)
- Natalie Padron: Shooting for the stars in Astrophysics at UC Berkeley, from San Fernando.
- Ariana Hernandez: Coding the future in Computer Science at CSUN, a gem from Pacoima.
Each student's dedication to improving our community is truly admirable. I look forward to following their academic journeys and career trajectories. Congratulations again to these bright students who will be the next generation of young leaders!
Departing Ceremony
Team Rivas gathered in Sacramento for a memorable farewell ceremony. Reflecting on this occasion, it was more than just a farewell—it was a tribute to our shared journey. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to all who have been part of this experience. Your role has been essential, and the impact of our time together will remain with me as I continue to strive to serve my community. I will always treasure the moments we shared and your steadfast support. #TeamRivas
Thank you for taking the time to read my newsletter. Stay tuned for more updates.
If you have any questions, please contact my District Office at (818) 504-3911 or visit my website. I value your input and strive to improve our community.
It is my pleasure to serve you.
Respectfully,
LUZ M. RIVAS
Assemblywoman, 43rd District