Meet Down But Not Out 501(c)3 | Non Profit Organization

We had the good fortune of connecting with Down But Not Out 501(c)3 and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Down But Not Out, what are you inspired by?
At Down But Not, our inspiration is rooted deeply in the heart of humanity. Everyday, we witness small acts of kindness, gestures that may seem trivial to many but hold immense value to those who often feel invisible in the busy streets of Los Angeles. The city may be vast, and its challenges many, but the light of compassion, even if just a flicker, has the power to illuminate the darkest corners of peoples hearts.

We are continuously moved by those moments where a simple conversation, a meal, or a gesture of understanding can transform someone’s day, bringing a glimmer of hope and belonging. We understand the profound loneliness that can come with homelessness – the feeling of being out of place in a world that’s constantly moving. That’s why our organization exists: to take the place of those empty voids and fill them with warmth, empathy, and connection.

Our inspiration does not just come from the acts of kindness we bestow but from the gratitude and resilience we see in the eyes of the people we serve. Their strength, despite adversity, drives us to do more, to be better, and to never forget the importance of human connection. It’s a reminder that everyone, regardless of their circumstances, deserves to be seen, heard, and valued.

In a society that often rushes past, makes judgments, or simply looks away, we find beauty in stopping, in reaching out, and in recognizing the shared human experience. We love lifting spirits and reminding everyone that while they may be down, they are never out, never alone, and always worthy of kindness and respect.

This is the heartbeat of Down But Not, and this is what fuels our passion and purpose each and every day.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
At the heart of our organization lies not just a mission, but a community – a collective of individuals whose unique attributes combine to create something truly extraordinary. What truly sets DBNO apart from others is the wealth of passion, dedication, and individual talent that each of our volunteers brings to the table. The tapestry of our group is intricately woven with stories of commitment that have stood the test of time.

Our journey has seen the unyielding commitment of individuals like John Susoeff, whose exceptional artistic prowess captures moments and stories in photographs that speak a thousand words. Tracy Hanson, with her infectious energy and radiant personality, lights up every space she enters, bringing hope and joy to those she interacts with. The unwavering dedication of Marlene Giacomazzo and Michelle Oura stands as a testament to what lazer focus coupled with a deep sense of purpose can achieve.

Stories like John Caruso, whom many affectionately refer to as the ‘Arizona Ice Tea Legend’ for his unfailing commitment to always bring something to the table, and Steve, whose delectable hot soup has become legendary, attracting individuals from far and wide, add rich flavors to our narrative.

Speaking of legends, there’s Jackie Higashiyama, whose love and care resonate with a protective ‘Mama Bear’ style, touching lives profoundly. Byron Takeushi has been a beacon of consistency, serving warm meals to the homeless for over a decade. Not to be overlooked, Larry from Alex Dipeppe’s Restaurant, whose generosity knows no bounds, Arodi Abraham Bautista’s relentless commitment (the guy never misses a week, seriously never)

Quiet warriors like Jaime Valdez, whose reserved demeanor contrasts with his thunderous dedication to the cause, and sweet enthusiasts like Lori Ebner, committed to bringing joy in the form of sweets, hold special places in our journey. Add to the mix the enormous heart of Mike Prest, the ever-positive vibes from Dan, and countless others, and you get a glimpse of the mosaic that is DBNO.

Was our journey smooth? No. When you bring together a group of individuals, each brimming with compassion and a drive to make a difference, it’s inevitable that there will be moments of friction. Passion can ignite fireworks, but it’s essential to remember that it’s this same fire that molds metal. And in our case, it’s this passion that has shaped and propelled our mission forward.

We’ve learned the power of unity, the importance of respecting individuality, and the magic that unfolds when diverse talents converge for a shared goal. While challenges arise when passionate people intersect, it’s this very passion that fuels our perseverance.

We want the world to know that DBNO isn’t just an organization; it’s a movement, a family. Our brand is built on the unwavering commitment of every individual who has stood with us, and our story is a testament to the transformative power of collective compassion.

To every volunteer, supporter, and believer, we extend our heartfelt gratitude. Together, we aren’t just making a difference; we’re creating a legacy.

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?
Thats easy, Start with a Sizzle at B-Man’s Teriyaki and Burgers by hitting up B-Man’s – one of our dearest supporters. It’s not just about the food, but the heart behind it. Transition to the Timeless Tastes of Italy at Alex Di’Peppes Restaurant. This isn’t just an Italian restaurant its a family institution, the owner Larry is such an amazing guy.

We would then dnd the evening with a little fun at Escondite: Situated at 410 Boyd St, Escondite is more than just a bar; it’s an embodiment of L.A.’s soul, Escondite has been a beacon of support for us, and their excellence goes beyond just their beverages; it’s in the atmosphere, the camaraderie, and the heartfelt connection to the community.

This day offers not just a taste of the city but a taste of the relationships, stories, and love that have been poured into our cause by some incredible supporters.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Volunteering, especially with the fervor and dedication many of our members showcase, can often be all-consuming. The unsung heroes in this journey are undoubtedly the families and loved ones of our volunteers. Their unwavering support and understanding create a safe haven for our volunteers to return to after their demanding days. These family members often bear witness to the emotional toll, the long hours, and the challenges their loved ones face in their quest to make a difference. Yet, they stand steadfast, often sharing in the same passion and commitment to the cause, even if from the sidelines. Their silent sacrifices and immense patience deserve recognition, for they too are deeply intertwined in our mission’s success.

Shoutout to Monday Night Mission’s Framework: Every organization stands on the shoulders of its predecessors, and for Down But Not Out (DBNO), that foundation came from Monday Night Mission (MNM). Established 12 years ago by Mel, MNM may no longer be in operation, but its structural blueprint has significantly influenced the way DBNO functions today.

In the vast tapestry of human kindness, there are those rare individuals who shine brighter, illuminating the path for others. Byron Takeuchi (B-Man’s Teriyaki and Burger) is one such beacon. His generous donations to Down But Not Out have not only been instrumental in our mission but have also been a testament to the depth of his compassion and commitment, let’s just say he put the “B” in DBNO.

However, the heart of DBNO doesn’t beat solely because of one individual, no matter how impactful. We are equally indebted to the myriad of volunteers who have graced our organization over the years. Their contributions, whether big or small, have been the lifeblood of our operations.

To all the volunteers who have come and gone through DBNO’s doors: your efforts have been the building blocks of our decade-long service to our fellow man. Nothing we do is accomplished in isolation. Each contribution, no matter its size, is a thread in the larger fabric of our mission. And it’s this combined effort that has allowed us to serve with unwavering dedication for over 10 years. It’s a testament to the collective spirit of humanity that, when pooled together, even the smallest acts of kindness can create monumental change.

Website: dbnohelps.com

Instagram: instagram.com/dbnohelps

Twitter: twitter.com/dbnohelps

Facebook: facebook.com/dbnohelps

Image Credits
John Susoeff