What We're Building Toward.
The Fishbone Seafood Foundation is developing four core initiative areas. These programs are in planning — we're sharing them now so the community can see where we're headed and help shape what we build.
Four Pillars of Community Impact
Every initiative below reflects a real need we've witnessed in the communities around us. None of these programs are fully operational yet — but each one is grounded in genuine relationships, lived experience, and a commitment to doing this work with integrity.
Mayor Tasha Cerda — City of Gardena
Community Meal Events
No One Should Go Hungry
We're developing a series of community meal events designed to bring neighbors together around shared food. These gatherings will prioritize families facing food insecurity, offering not just a meal but a moment of dignity, connection, and community.
- Free community meals open to all
- Focus on families experiencing food insecurity
- Partnerships with local food suppliers and restaurants
- Events designed to build lasting neighborhood relationships
Mayor James Butts — City of Inglewood
Youth Mentorship
Investing in the Next Generation
Young people in our communities deserve access to mentors who look like them and understand where they come from. We're building a mentorship program that connects youth with professionals, entrepreneurs, and community leaders who can open doors and expand what feels possible.
- One-on-one and group mentorship connections
- Focus on youth in underserved Southern California communities
- Partnerships with schools, community centers, and local businesses
- Pathways into careers, entrepreneurship, and higher education
Hospitality Career Development
Opening Doors Into the Industry
The restaurant and hospitality industry is one of the most accessible entry points into stable employment — but only if you know how to get in. Drawing on the expertise of Fishbone Seafood, we're developing training and career development resources to help people launch and grow careers in hospitality.
- Hands-on training in restaurant and hospitality operations
- Resume building, interview prep, and job placement support
- Connections to industry employers and hiring partners
- Pathways for advancement, not just entry-level placement
Adrin Nazarian — LA City Council, 2nd District
Local Partnerships
Stronger Together
No single organization can serve a community alone. We're actively building relationships with local nonprofits, businesses, faith communities, and civic organizations whose work aligns with ours. Together, we can multiply our reach and deepen our impact.
- Collaborative programming with aligned local organizations
- Resource sharing and co-sponsorship of community events
- Referral networks to connect people with the right support
- Long-term partnerships built on trust and shared values
Where We Are Right Now
These initiatives represent our vision — not programs that are currently operational. We are in the process of building the foundation's infrastructure, forming partnerships, and securing the resources needed to launch responsibly. If any of these areas resonate with you, we'd love to hear from you.
Help Shape What We Build
Your interest, expertise, and support can help these initiatives become real. Whether you want to volunteer, partner, or contribute — there's a role for you.