Heart of the Neighborhood

In this episode, our guests Diana and Kryssie share the powerful stories of individuals who show up when it matters most—during crisis, loss, and trauma. The Trauma Intervention Program (TIP) of Long Beach is comprised of specially trained volunteers who respond alongside emergency personnel—police, firefighters, paramedics—to provide emotional support and practical help in some of life’s hardest...

In this episode, we talk with Ryan, President of the Willmore City Community Association . Listen as we learn how Willmore City Community Association has adapted to the needs and priorities of its residents, and how effective partnerships and advocacy helps them address issues of inequity and neighborhood investment over time. Willmore City Historic District is situated downtown, in west Long Beac...

In this episode of Heart of the Neighborhood , we talk with Cinthya—a Long Beach resident and participant in the City of Long Beach Neighborhood Leadership Program —who’s on a mission to give back to the city she loves. For over 30 years, the City of Long Beach Neighborhood Leadership Program (NLP) has assisted grassroots residents with the skills, knowledge and resources needed to make a differen...

Meet Serbrina, the founder of Happy Lifts, a weight lifting program for women that contains more purpose and meaning than just building muscle in the gym. What started as a resident led initiative offering free weight lifting classes for women from her garage and in Rose Park, has flourished into a mission to get all shy girls into the gym. Listen as Serbrina talks about the benefits of weightlift...

In this episode, we spotlight Dina Feldman, a social entrepreneur and community builder, and a shining example of how businesses can be a force for good. Dina is the visionary behind Feel Good Kitchen, a Certified Green kitchen that helps tenants who are starting and growing their food business with sustainable practices.  From supporting neighborhood initiatives to launching innovative programs,...

In this episode, Cal State Long Beach President's Ambassadors Andres, Emily and Pranvat take us beyond the campus and into the community of Long Beach where the heart and soul of communities come alive. The President's Ambassadors talk about their volunteer experiences, the activities they love, and the many benefits they have gained from the program and their community work.  We hope th...

In this episode, Abigail, a Long Beach Poly High School sophomore gives listeners an insight into Gen Z volunteers. Abigail shares her motivation for volunteering, how she finds opportunities that align with the causes she supports, and highlights what makes volunteer activities meaningful and accessible.  If you are a Gen Z looking to volunteer, a parent or guardian of a high schooler seeking opp...

Are you seeking assistance with a home project, need tech help, or want to learn a new language? Are you interested in sharing your skills with others?  Listen as we talk with CJ, a member and volunteer of The Long Beach Time Exchange to learn how to utilize the support and services of your neighbors, and how to contribute your time and skill set as a volunteer to help others. The Long Beach Time...

Cozy up with us as we step inside the wonderful world of reading. In this light and fun episode we talk favorite books, community connection and soulful imagination with the founder of LB Bookworms, Martha Esquivas. Follow LB Bookworms for the next opportunity to attend a reading party or receive book recommendations from Martha on Instagram @LBBookworms ! Book Mentions: The Magic Treehouse by Mar...

In this episode, we talk with Susana Gonzalez Edmond, President of the Long Beach Council Parent Teacher Association (PTA). The Long Beach Council PTA is a group of volunteers who support the work of 34 PTA council units at schools in the Long Beach Unified School District. Their support includes tools for increasing PTA membership, developing and strengthening PTA leadership, and ensuring that fa...

Neighborhood voice and advocacy is alive and well in Wrigley. Our guests, Justin Simon, Vice President and Alejandra Gutierrez, Communications and Government Strategist of Wrigley Association talk about the collective efforts neighbors can take to improve our civic health through advocacy and action. Local progress and improvement is obtainable, we just need to come together to achieve it. The Wri...

How do we support the Long Beach neighborhoods that need more time, resources and attention? We volunteer! Meet Jontue of Starr King Neighborhood Association, who volunteers her time with a small group of caring individuals to bring important resources, events and information to North Long Beach residents. Starr King neighborhood is situated in northwest Long Beach within the boundaries of Greenle...

Volunteering in Long Beach truly is a labor of love for Cascia and Tom. In this episode, we explore the many benefits and intrinsic rewards of volunteering including social connection, personal well-being, sense of purpose & accomplishment. Let's start to imagine our neighborhoods stronger and healthier because everyone takes the time to care for our environment, and for each other. Resou...

Among the 18 designated historic districts, California Heights Neighborhood is the largest historical district in Long Beach with the oldest home built in 1905. This year, California Heights Neighborhood celebrates 100 years of architectural charm and history. Listen as we talk with Manny Valenzuela of California Heights Neighborhood Association, a volunteer-led nonprofit organization working to p...

Meet Jen and Kat of LBC Hero Squad , two Long Beach moms on a mission to provide awareness, support and education to parents of neurodivergent youth. Listen as they share their personal experiences and their hope of creating a culture of acceptance, kindness, celebration and inclusion of neurodivergent youth. It is our hope that this episode inspires you to be kinder to yourself and to others ......

Meet Atle and Nico, two Long Beach residents who are passionate about micro-mobility, public transit, and infrastructure that results in safe, accessible ways to move around the city. Listen as we talk about the joy of community, bike riding adventures, and the special place they found with Car-Lite to advocate for safe streets and alternative transportation in Long Beach. Visit Car-Lite Long Beac...

This episode is about the importance of human connection, relationships, care and compassion. Our guest, Rocio of AOC7 Neighborhood Organization talks with us about how their organization serves to uplift and support the needs of black and brown residents in the neighborhood and highlights the partnerships that help them achieve common goals. Listen as Rocio shares the impact of their community bu...

Rose Park Neighborhood resident Sylvia talks about her experience dealing with crime and safety issues on her block. Sylvia provides a real-look at how problems are addressed at the neighborhood level, and tells listeners how she and other neighbors work together with city agencies, nonprofits  and businesses to improve her area. Rose Park Neighborhood boundaries run from 10th St on the North to 4...

Meet your Heart of the Neighborhood hosts Danielle & Nicolette. Listen as they express their love for Long Beach, and provide you with reasons and resources for getting involved and taking an active role in making our neighborhoods safe, healthy places to live! List of Long Beach Neighborhood Groups https://www.longbeach.gov/lbcd/hn/resource-center/neighborhood-groups/ We Love Long Beach https...

"**Heart of the Neighborhood** is a community benefit project of Rose Park Neighborhood Association dedicated to highlighting the vibrant leadership and community volunteer efforts that make Long Beach,  California a better place to live. Join us as we interview local neighborhood leaders and showcase innovative initiatives that address neighborhood issues and improve the quality of life for...