The Stronger Families Blog

Upcoming Events for Families in L.A. County

Here’s a roundup of events on perinatal health and family strengthening compiled by LA Best Babies Network. Share with the families you serve! 

We also maintain this list of trainings and upcoming events for home visitors and other early childhood professionals. 

Subscribe here to get a weekly email with the latest updates.

Do you have something for us to include here? Email snish@labestbabies.org. 

Looking for a partner to coordinate a training in L.A. County? Submit your collaboration request here. Looking for a trainer? Check out HomeVisitingLA.org and its directory of trainings.

Other resources: Upcoming Events for Early Childhood Professionals | Recorded Webinars, On-Demand Training | Ongoing Support Groups, Meetings, Classes | Other Organizations’ Events Calendars

January is:

Ongoing Opportunities

Opportunity for Families to Serve on California’s NICU Family Advisory Council
Application deadline: January 31
Have you had a baby in the NICU? Are you passionate about making the NICU journey better for others? Requires a 2-year commitment, with $2,000 compensation to family members who participate by responding to emails and attending meetings.
Coordinated by California Perinatal Quality Care Collaborative (CPQCC)

Pregnancy Research Project
The PRO-Health research team at California State University, Long Beach, is studying the experiences of parents and their babies during pregnancy and after birth. They are recruiting participants who are pregnant and at least 18 years old. Gift cards provided. See their flyer (English/Spanish) here. To sign up or learn more contact 562-285-7074 or prohealth@csulb.edu or visit bit.ly/Interest-RFBH.

Let the City of L.A. Know About Your Child Care Needs
Take this quick survey to help the City of L.A. learn about your family’s needs and how they can better support you.
Presented by Child Care Policy Unit – Los Angeles Community Investment for Families Department

Apply to Be a Bus Driver or Mechanic With LA Unified School District (LAUSD)
View qualifications and details at LAUSDJobs.org.

Get Child Care Financial Assistance
The Child Care Resource Center helps families find and apply for child care assistance. Apply here (or here in Spanish). Learn more at CCRCCA.org or call 1-866-67-4KIDS. See CCRC’s flyer for parents in English and Spanish.

CSU Dominguez Hills Study: Seeking Participants Who are Expecting Their First Child
Are you currently pregnant for the first time? You are invited to participate in a new research study at CSU Dominguez Hills focused on daily emotions and experience during pregnancy. You can earn up to $150 for participation in this study. For more information, contact perch@csudh.edu or call (323) 379-9118.
Study conducted by the CSU Dominguez Hills Department of Psychology

MotherToBaby Study: Seeking Participants
MotherToBaby is currently enrolling pregnant women in an observational study to explore how asthma and its treatment affect pregnancy. All studies are conducted through phone interviews — no changes to your normal routine or travel required. 
Study conducted by MotherToBaby

CalKIDS Program Gives Money to Families to Save for College
Low-income families with public school students in grades 1-12 can now open college savings accounts, and California will contribute seed investments of up to $1,500 for each child. All California families with newborns (born on or after July 1, 2022) can also open these accounts and receive up to $100 from the state. Read more about eligibility, and see this FAQ page. To see these pages in another language click “Language” on the right side.

Golden Bear Pass
CalWORKs families can receive a complimentary Golden Bear Pass, which grants free entry at 200+ state parks and beaches. Learn more and apply here (or in Spanish here). Questions? Contact the California Dept. of Social Services at (916) 651-0515 or calworksoutreach@dss.ca.gov.

Opportunity LA Offers Free Savings Accounts for Children
The City and County of Los Angeles, along with LAUSD, are working together to provide all LAUSD first-graders with a FREE Child Saving Account (CSA) to help save for college — regardless of the student or parent’s income, background or immigration status. All eligible students will receive an initial $50 deposit. Additional deposits can be made by students and families. To learn more about the program, visit OpportunityLA.com or watch videos in English and Spanish here.
Presented by the City and County of L.A., in partnership with LAUSD and Citibank

Decolonized Nonviolent Parenting: A Practice for Raising Empathetic, Grounded, & Socially Conscious Kids (6-Week Course)
Receive support in developing a parenting style that acknowledges your children’s journey and develops them to be empathic, grounded, and socially conscious via the lenses of familial decolonization, nonviolence, reparenting, and conscious child development.
Presented by Latinx Parenting

Participate in Research Study on Breast Milk
The Lundquist Institute is conducting a breast milk research study. Participants (who are currently breastfeeding) will conduct a 4-hour study visit and will receive a $100 gift card. Learn more here or contact MacKenzie Cervantes at breastmilk@lundquist.org or 310-974-9538.

The California Abundant Birth Project
This guaranteed income program will provide monthly cash assistance for people who are 8-27 weeks pregnant and at a higher risk of preterm birth.

Learn STOP THE BLEED®: Save a Life
2nd Friday of every month, 12:00pm – 1:00pm: Dignity Health – California Hospital Medical Center, 1401 S. Grand Ave., Leavey Hall, Los Angeles, CA 90015
To register, email Jessica.Brase@commonspirit.org
Presented by Dignity Health — California Hospital Medical Center

Just Drive: Take Action Against Distraction
2nd Friday of every month, 1:00pm – 2:00pm: Dignity Health – California Hospital Medical Center, 1401 S. Grand Ave. Leavey Hall, Los Angeles, CA 90015
To register, email Jessica.Brase@commonspirit.org
Presented by Dignity Health — California Hospital Medical Center

Stress and Wellness Survey for Teens
California teens ages of 12- to 17-years old are invited to take the Youth Mindful Awareness Program’s survey about their health and well-being. The survey takes approximately 10 minutes to complete. Participants are eligible for a $10 gift card. Complete the survey here.

Clothing Assistance Program
The National Council of Jewish Women LA’s Clothing Assistance Program supports individuals and families living under or near the poverty line by providing gift cards that can be redeemed for clothing, shoes, and accessories. Gift cards can be used at any of their seven Council Shops.

Pregnant people are invited to participate in the HOPE THRIVE study!  
To qualify for the study, participants must be pregnant, reside in California, and have Medi-Cal health insurance. Additional requirements include being comfortable reading and writing in English. For full eligibility requirements, click here. Participants will receive $250 for their time. Additional compensation will be available for those who also participate in focus groups.
Presented by Health Outcomes of Pregnancy for Everyone and the University of California, San Francisco

Seeking Participants for a Caregiver Study
Researchers at Endicott College are studying ways caregiver’s (i.e., parents, grandparents, etc.) interactions impact their baby’s language development. Participants will receive a $70 gift card. Interested in participating? Email Eilis O’Connell-Sussman at EOConnel@endicott.edu for more details.

Seeking Black/African American or Latina/Latinx Birthing People with Physical Disabilities to Participant in a Study
Black people and Latinxs/Latinas with physical disabilities have unique experiences during pregnancy. To learn about these unique experiences, Brandeis University is conducting a study to better understand how race and disability can affect pregnancy. If you are Black/African American and/or Latinx/Latina or Hispanic, have a physical disability, and have given birth in the last ten years, they’d like to interview you. Participants will receive a $50 Amazon gift card.
To participate, email Janelle Mills at pregnancystudy@brandeis.edu or call 781-736-3928.

Los Angeles Rental Housing Habitability Program
In November, Los Angeles County will start a new proactive rental housing inspection program called the Rental Housing Habitability Program (RHHP) in the unincorporated areas of the County. The goal of RHHP is to ensure that rental housing properties and units maintain the minimum habitability standards required by law. Check out these English and Spanish flyers and these FAQs for more information.

Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority’s Winter Shelter Program
The program is held annually to protect people experiencing homelessness during the colder months. Meals, showers, and case management services will be provided. Shelters are located across LA County, and will operate 24/7 until March 31, 2025.

Join the LA County Youth Commission  
The Youth Commission was established to assist the Board of Supervisors in leading transformative change in LA County’s youth facing departments, programs, and policies. They are seeking applicants who are at least 18 years old and have lived experience in child welfare, juvenile justice, probation, kinship care, and adoption.

Youth @ Work Program
The program is for ages 14 – 24 and will provide access to paid work-based learning, work readiness, personal enrichment training, academic and career development, and advanced career services.

Parents and Family Cafés
Parents and caregivers raising children with developmental delays and special health needs can share experiences and receive emotional support. Presented by Help Me Grow LA. Call for more information: 1-888-903-3972.

Healing Library Kits at L.A. County Libraries
These kits help families who are dealing with divorce/separation, the death of a loved one or pet, or other difficult situations. Kits include books and guides with activity ideas to facilitate the healing process. Visit a participating library to borrow a Healing Library Kit.

Paid Full-Time Internships for Classroom Aides
Interested in the field of early childhood education? Options for Learning is offering full-year, full-time paid classroom aide internships starting in early 2025. At the end of this program participants can earn their associate teacher permit. Apply here.

Free Nalaxone (Narcan) at L.A. County Libraries
Anyone can attend a free workshop to get this easy-to-use life-saving nasal spray that can reverse an opioid overdose, including heroin, fentanyl and prescription opioid medications. Get details and find a library near you.

Join the California Low-Dose Aspirin Patient Advisory Council
Apply by January 31
California Maternal Quality Care Collaborative and March of Dimes are looking for moms or parents who have experienced preeclampsia to join their Low-Dose Aspirin Patient Advisory Council. Send an email here to apply.

Medical Debt Relief Program
The Department of Public Health has partnered with Undue Medical Debt to provide low-income L.A. County families with debt relief. If eligible, families will receive a letter notifying them of their debt cancellation.

Become a DIY Workshop Instructor
LA County Parks and Recreation is looking for instructors to lead DIY workshops at LA County Parks. Could be a good money-making opportunity! Apply here.

Community Needs Survey
Every year, the city of L.A. receives four federal grants to invest in affordable housing, parks, services for unhoused residents, and other activities. Give your input here to help determine where these funds go!

Winter Classes for Adults and Children
Los Angeles County provides classes throughout the winter for adults and children. Whether you’re eager to discover a new hobby, stay fit, or sharpen your skills, our diverse classes have you covered. 

Earn Learn Play: Find Youth Programs and Services Near You!
The Los Angeles Youth Development Department offers recreation activities, employment programs, tutoring services, leadership opportunities, and many more free and low-cost City of Los Angeles services to earn, learn, and play throughout the year.

Emergency fund to help outdoor worker impacted by L.A. County fires
Deadline: January 17, 5:00pm
Inclusive Action launched an emergency fund to help outdoor workers – street vendors, landscapers, and recyclers – impacted by the fires. Impacted outdoor workers can apply for a one-time cash assistance support of $500.

RAPID Survey for Parents and Child Care Providers of Young Children
Standford University and Abriendo Puertas/Opening Doors are looking to gather information on the needs and well-being of family households. They are looking for parents and childcare providers of young children (birth to 5 years old) to participate in their ongoing survey. Gift cards are available for all eligible participants. Here is a link to the parent survey. Here is the link to the childcare provider survey.

Upcoming Events for Families in L.A. County

Care Camp for Youth and Teens Impacted by the Eaton Fire
January 13 – 31, 8:00am
LA County Parks & Recreation has created Care Camp to help support families affect by the Eaton fire. Care Camp will provide youth and teens a supportive space for fun and recreation. To register and find a location near you, click here.

Winter Wonderland
January 18, 10:00am – 2:00pm: St. Anne’s Family Services, 151 N Occidental Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90026
Presented by St. Anne’s Family Services

Free Fire Relief Distribution
January 18, 11:00am – 2:00pm (or while supplies last): West Municipal Building Plaza, 1645 Corinth Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90025
Presented by Los Angeles Councilwoman Traci Park and others

FREE Insurance Workshops for L.A. Residents Affected by Wildfires
January 18 – 19, by appointment: Santa Monica College in the Performing Arts Center East Wing, 1310 11th St., Santa Monica, CA 90401
Experts will be available for one-on-one consultations. To schedule an appointment, please call 1-800-927-4357.
Presented by the Office of CA Insurance Commissioner Ricardo Lara

Shoes, Socks, and Apparel Giveaway for Individuals Affected by the Eaton Fire
January 19, 9:00am – 12:00pm: Run With Us Parking Lot, 235 N. Lake Ave., Pasadena, CA 91101
Must show ID to verify proof of residency in Altadena. No kid sizes will be available.
Presented by Run With Us

40th Annual Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Celebration
January 20, 11:00am: John Adams Middle School (JAMS) Performing Arts Center, 2425 16th St., Santa Monica, CA 90405
Presented by Santa Monica College

Work Ready: Self-Exploration for Job Seekers
January 21, 11:00am – 12:15pm
Presented by LA County Library

Year of the Snake: Sculpt and Paint
January 21, 5:00pm – 6:00pm: Paramount Library, 16254 Colorado Ave, Paramount, CA 90723
Presented by LA County Library

Virtual Workshop: How to Apply for the Sidewalk Vending Registration Certificate
January 22, 10:00am – 11:30am
Presented by the Department of Economic Opportunity (DEO) 

Become a VITA Volunteer: VITA Kick-Off Event
January 22, 5:30pm – 7:00pm
Ready to master the ins and outs of tax filing? Join Free Tax Prep LA for a series of hands-on training sessions covering everything you need to know about filing taxes and the VITA (Voluntary Income Tax Assistance) program.

Author Talk: The Age of Magical Overthinking with Amanda Montell
January 23, 11:00am – 12:00pm
Presented by LA County Library

Birth to Five Resource Fair
January 23, 2:00pm – 5:00pm: Barrio Action Youth and Family Center, 4927 Huntington Drive North., LA,CA 90032
Presented by the Department of Child and Family Services Pasadena

Conozca sus derechos: Acceso de inmigrantes a servicios públicos y defensa contra la deportación
24 de Enero, 12:00pm – 1:00pm
Presented by the LA County Office of Immigrant Affairs

¿Cómo solicitar el Certificado de Registro para la Venta Ambulante?
28 de enero, 10:00am – 11:30am
Presentado por el Departamento de Oportunidades Económicas del Condado de Los Ángeles

Work Ready: As a Professional, You Are the Brand
January 28, 11:00am – 12:15pm
Presented by LA County Library

Start the New Year with Meditation
January 28, 5:00pm – 6:00pm
Presented by LA County Library

Reading Stars Tutoring
January 28 – May 22, by appointment at specified library location
Reading Stars is part of LA County Library’s no-cost tutoring services and is open to enrolled students in Grades 1 – 6. Sign up by January 10
Presented by LA County Library

Virtual Event: Get to Know Libby
January 29, 11:00am – 12:00pm
Presented by LA County Library

¿Cómo Solicitar el Certificado de Registro para la Venta Ambulante?
30 de enero, 10:00am – 11:30am: Lawndale Library, 14615 Burin Avenue Lawndale, CA 90260
Presentado por el Departamento de Oportunidades Económicas del Condado de Los Ángeles

How to Apply for the Sidewalk Vending Registration Certificate
January 30, 1:00pm – 2:30pm: Lawndale Library, 14615 Burin Avenue Lawndale, CA 90260
Presented by the Department of Economic Opportunity (DEO) 

Nutrition Workshops: Thriving with Diabetes
February 1, 8, 15, and 22; 10:00am -11:00am: El Nido Farmers Market, 11243 Glenoaks Blvd., Pacoima, CA 91331
Participants will also have the chance to participate in an online culinary class on Tuesdays at 5pm. $40 worth of produce will be provided.
Presented by California State University, Northridge

African American and Black History Month: Activism Through Art
February 4, 4:00pm – 5:00pm: Woodcrest Library, 1340 West 106th St., Los Angeles, CA 90044
Presented by LA County Library

Self and Community Care Open Session
February 5, 11:00am – 12:00pm
Presented by DMH + UCLA Wellbeing for LA Learning Center

Heart & Hand Book Talk with Myah Ariel, Author of When I Think Of You
February 13, 6:00pm – 7:00pm
Presented by LA County Library

Parenting While Black: Nurturing Legacy, Love, and Liberation
February 24, March 10 & 24, April 7; 12:00pm – 1:00pm
Presented by Brazelton Touchpoints Center

Self and Community Care Open Session
March 5, 11:00am – 12:00pm
Presented by DMH + UCLA Wellbeing for LA Learning Center

Self and Community Care Open Session
April 2, 11:00am – 12:00pm
Presented by DMH + UCLA Wellbeing for LA Learning Center

Self and Community Care Open Session
May 7, 11:00am – 12:00pm
Presented by DMH + UCLA Wellbeing for LA Learning Center

Self and Community Care Open Session
June 4, 11:00am – 12:00pm
Presented by DMH + UCLA Wellbeing for LA Learning Center

Disclaimer: LA Best Babies Network provides this content as a service to the community. Listing an event here does not necessarily imply endorsement or approval. Please contact the host organizations directly for more information on any of these events.