About The Founder

Monique McClendon is the Founder and Executive Director of Arise Los Angeles, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting youth, young women, and families through programs focused on safe housing, empowerment, life-skills development, and community support.

With a deep commitment to strengthening communities, Monique founded Arise Los Angeles to create spaces where individuals can find encouragement, healing, and practical resources that help them move toward stability and independence.

Under her leadership, Arise Los Angeles has developed several initiatives designed to address critical needs within the community. These include the Arise for Girls Short-Term Residential Therapeutic Program (STRTP), the Seasons Transitional Living program, the DREAM youth development program, LAMP life-skills training, and RISE Communities, an initiative supporting maternal health and families with young children.

Monique is passionate about building partnerships with community organizations, faith-based groups, and local leaders to expand opportunities and support systems for those who need them most. Her work focuses on creating programs that promote healing, resilience, and long-term personal growth.

Through her leadership, Monique continues to guide Arise Los Angeles in its mission to shine light into darkness by providing supportive environments where individuals can rebuild their lives, strengthen their families, and pursue brighter futures.