Thank you, Alex!

As we start 2024, we’re bidding farewell to Alexandra Ramirez after four and a half amazing years at LA Más. Alex will be shifting to a new role as Executive Director of LA Walks! We start the year by reflecting on her contributions and impact she has left on our organization and community.

Alex’s role has evolved over the years. She joined the team as Project Manager leading a small business support program when we were an urban design non-profit working across the city. With roots in Mexico and a family experience running a mercado, she understood the perspective of small business owners and always grounded partnerships through a social and cultural lens.

When the pandemic started, Alex shaped and led numerous programs - including our NELA COVID Community Response, Mercadito, and Cash Assistance Program. In all these instances, as reflected by her role as Director of Network Weaving, Alex built deep relationships with residents and thoughtful partnership with organizations. She created opportunities for residents to take leadership roles and helped our organization shift our approach from leading to facilitating the leadership of our community.

Similarly, as LA Más transitioned the last two years into being a community based organization with working class residents of color shaping our program, Alex created space for ideas to emerge and relationships to develop amongst residents and grassroot groups. The NELA Food Justice Collaborative was seeded because Alex listened and saw the potential of collaboration.

Internally, Alex often grounded our team and our work as strategic decisions had to be made. Oftentimes, when we were a bit lost or unsure, Alex created processes for us to reflect and prioritize based on values. Within our collective leadership structure over the last two years, Alex pushed our team to move when we stagnated and taught us the importance of being present and empathetic during difficult times. We thank her for being with us through so many transitions and being able to adapt to roles as needed, always showing up with tough love and provocative questions. 

An advocate of healing and appreciation, Alex has always showed up to any space with gifts, offerings, and an open heart. This practice has been incorporated into how LA Más continues to hold space for meetings and gatherings. Our community members will miss her spirit and energy. We know because her absence at any community gathering is felt.

Alex, your journey ahead at LA Walks will continue to be a gift to our communities. We look forward to your leadership in fighting for social justice in our built environment.

Thank you for the ways you have made us try new things, create new processes, and work differently. Your impact at LA Más is a reflection of the love, passion, and commitment you bring to all that you do!