Meet Courtney Lockridge | Executive Director and Co-founder

We had the good fortune of connecting with Courtney Lockridge and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Courtney, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
My thought process behind starting my own business came from a deep desire to make a bigger impact in the communities I served. After years of working in nonprofit and community service programs, I saw firsthand the critical needs of inner-city youth, particularly in nutrition, obesity prevention, and food scarcity. As a Director of Nutrition Services for seven years, I was able to provide meals to students after school, but I felt limited in how much I could address the broader systemic issues affecting underserved communities.

In 2017, I decided to take a more hands-on approach by founding my own nonprofit, Impact LA. I wanted to expand beyond just nutrition and offer additional resources that could improve the overall quality of life for individuals in these communities. My goal has always been to ensure that everyone, regardless of their circumstances, has access to the same opportunities to succeed and become productive members of their community. Starting my own organization allowed me to create programs that truly meet the needs of the people I am passionate about serving.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
Impact LA is more than just a nonprofit organization—it’s a movement dedicated to fostering safe spaces and providing essential resources to underserved communities. What sets us apart is our holistic approach to community support. We don’t just address one need; we tackle multiple challenges, from food insecurity to education, social-emotional development, and emergency relief. Our programs, like the Backpack Giveaway, Turkey Dinner Drive, and Expanded Learning initiatives, ensure that individuals, especially youth, have the tools and opportunities to thrive.

What I’m most proud of is the real, tangible impact we’ve had on the lives of those we serve. Seeing a child light up after receiving their first backpack full of school supplies or a family relieved to have a warm meal during the holidays reminds me why we do this work. I’m also incredibly grateful for my best friend, Emerita, who stood by my side as we built this organization together, sharing the same passion and vision for change.

Getting to where we are today was far from easy. Starting and growing a nonprofit requires resilience, resourcefulness, and relentless dedication. Funding, community engagement, and building trust were some of our biggest challenges. There were moments of doubt, but we overcame them by staying focused on our mission and leaning on our community of supporters and volunteers. One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that impact takes time, and every small step forward counts. Passion alone isn’t enough—you need strategy, collaboration, and persistence.

What I want the world to know about Impact LA is that we are here to create lasting change. We believe that every individual, regardless of their background, deserves the opportunity to succeed. Our story is one of commitment, perseverance, and the power of community. If we continue to uplift and support one another, we can build a future where no one is left behind.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
If my best friend were visiting Los Angeles for a week, I’d craft an itinerary that showcases the city’s diverse culture, cuisine, and attractions. Here’s a day-by-day plan to ensure an unforgettable experience:

Day 1: Downtown Los Angeles

Morning: Start with breakfast at Grand Central Market, a historic food hall offering a variety of cuisines.

Afternoon: Visit The Broad Museum to explore contemporary art, then take a short walk to the Walt Disney Concert Hall for a guided tour.

Evening: Dine at Bestia, renowned for its Italian-inspired menu and industrial-chic setting.

Day 2: Hollywood and West Hollywood

Morning: Hike up to the Griffith Observatory for panoramic city views and a close-up look at the iconic Hollywood Sign.

Afternoon: Stroll along the Hollywood Walk of Fame and visit the TCL Chinese Theatre.

Evening: Enjoy dinner at Musso & Frank Grill, a historic Hollywood establishment known for its classic American fare.

Day 3: Santa Monica and Venice Beach

Morning: Bike along the Marvin Braude Bike Trail from Santa Monica to Venice Beach.

Afternoon: Explore the Venice Canals and the vibrant Venice Beach Boardwalk.

Evening: Dine at Gjelina on Abbot Kinney Boulevard, celebrated for its New American cuisine.

Day 4: Cultural Immersion

Morning: Visit the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) to view its extensive art collections.

Afternoon: Explore the La Brea Tar Pits nearby.

Evening: Experience authentic Korean BBQ at Ahgassi Gopchang in Koreatown.

Day 5: Malibu Day Trip

Morning: Drive to Malibu and relax at Zuma Beach.

Afternoon: Visit the Getty Villa to explore ancient art and architecture.

Evening: Enjoy a seafood dinner at Nobu Malibu, offering exquisite dishes with ocean views.

Day 6: Arts District and Little Tokyo

Morning: Explore the vibrant street art in the Arts District.

Afternoon: Visit the Japanese American National Museum in Little Tokyo.

Evening: Dine at Daikokuya, famous for its rich ramen.

Day 7: Relaxation and Reflection

Morning: Visit the Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens in Pasadena.

Afternoon: Enjoy a leisurely lunch at The Raymond 1886, known for its historic charm and modern American cuisine.

Evening: Conclude the trip with a rooftop cocktail at Perch, offering stunning views of the downtown skyline.

This itinerary blends Los Angeles’ must-see attractions with its hidden gems, ensuring a comprehensive and memorable experience.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I would love to dedicate a huge shoutout to my best friend, Emerita. From the very beginning, she was by my side as we started our nonprofit together, sharing the same vision and passion for serving underserved communities. Her dedication, hard work, and unwavering support played a huge role in making Impact LA a reality.

I also want to recognize all the amazing volunteers, community partners, and supporters who have contributed their time and resources to help us grow and reach more people. It truly takes a village, and I’m grateful for every person who has been part of this journey. Their belief in our mission has been a driving force in making a real difference.

Website: https://www.ImpactLA.org

Instagram: https://www.Instagram.com/WeImpactLA

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WeimpactLA