About
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For Starters
ECHO is a recently inaugurated non-profit organization headquartered in Los Angeles, California, established in March 2024. Founded by two dedicated women, ECHO emerged from a shared vision to address the pressing issue of housing insecurity faced by working individuals and families teetering on the brink of homelessness, often described as being “one paycheck away” from displacement. Drawing upon a collective wealth of 30 years of professional experience within the non-profit sector, the founders bring a profound commitment to serving communities and advocating for those whose voices are often marginalized. ECHO is steadfast in its mission to forge meaningful connections between housing resources and those in critical need, fostering equitable access to stable housing and empowering individuals and families to build brighter futures.
Our Mission
At Equitable Connections to Housing Opportunities (ECHO), our mission is to empower low-income individuals in Los Angeles by facilitating access to 100% affordable housing. Through affordable housing development, comprehensive leasing assistance, property management services, and resource provisions, we echo the voices and needs of our community members. By ensuring that working individuals have equitable opportunities for affordable housing, we strive to create a city where all Los Angeles residents can thrive and prosper.
Our Vision
Our vision at ECHO is to transform the landscape of housing accessibility across Los Angeles County. We aspire to establish partnerships with 200 properties, extending our reach to serve 6000 units within the region. With a focus on inclusivity and empowerment, we aim to target highly sought-after locales renowned for their exceptional amenities, including excellent schools, secure neighborhoods, and abundant job prospects. Furthermore, we are committed to collaborating with developers to craft contemporary multi-family properties tailored to the needs of today's dynamic individuals and families. These residences will embody a holistic approach, embracing pet and child-friendly environments, fostering community cohesion, and offering proximity to essential amenities such as grocery stores, parks, and dining establishments. Our vision is not merely to provide housing but to democratize access to a better quality of life, ensuring that the benefits of modern living are attainable for all working individuals and families striving to enhance their well-being.
Our Values
Equity
Commitment to ensuring fair and just access to housing resources and opportunities for all individuals and families, regardless of socio-economic status, race, ethnicity, gender, age, or other factors.
Empowerment
Empowering individuals and communities to take control of their housing situations, make informed decisions, and advocate for their rights and needs.
Collaboration
Building partnerships and collaborations with stakeholders across sectors to leverage resources, expertise, and collective action in pursuit of equitable housing outcomes.
Inclusivity
Embracing diversity and creating inclusive spaces where all voices are heard and valued, and where everyone feels welcome and respected.
Accessibility
Ensuring that housing services, information, and resources are accessible to all, including those with disabilities or language barriers, and removing barriers to entry.
Transparency
Operating with transparency and accountability in all aspects of organizational governance, decision-making, and resource allocation.
Our Allocation
Partnership Establishment
Acquiring housing opportunities for future tenants!
Reporting & Compliance
Ensuring regulatory compliance and full transparency for our partners
Facilitating Tenancy
We've already cultivated a generous waitlist of future tenants!
Community Engagement
Organizing regular community forms for open platforms of dialogue and discussion
Our Board
Meet the visionary minds steering our organization towards success – our dynamic leadership team brings diverse expertise and unwavering commitment to drive innovation and growth.
Dr. Terra Simms
Chairman
Acquisitions & Contracts
Rogie Arellano
Secretary
Leasing & Property Management
Alex Merrill
Treasurer
Accounting
