Meet Alex Rivera of Palos Verdes

Today we’d like to introduce you to Alex Rivera

Hi Alex, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
My journey in social services began with a deep-rooted desire to make a difference. Growing up in South LA, my family and I witnessed at firsthand the challenges faced by many in our community; including poverty, lack of access to healthy foods, healthcare disparities and lack of resources. Being the son of a young mother, my family and I had trouble making ends meet. This experience made me want to help others in the same situation giving me the opportunity to help those individuals that have struggled the same way I did as a kid, growing up in an underserved community.
From an early age I recognized the importance of collective action and the power of a community. My commitment to service led me to pursue a career in social work, where I knew I would have direct impact on the lives of others. After completing my education in Sociology I dedicated 9 years helping the underserved communities of Kern County. I returned to South LA, eager and armed with a deep understanding of some of LA’s rough communities strengths and challenges.

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
I think my personal experiences have fueled my determination to help those in need and addressing the underlying issues that perpetuate social inequality. Furthermore, the biggest challenged was building partnerships among different community organizations aimed at addressing social needs. Collaborating with local organizations, government agencies and other local businesses that tackle issues such as food insecurity, access to affordable housing, homelessness, youth empowerment and community advocacy. Connecting with these organizations I have been able to mobilize resources for our Martin Luther King Community Healthcare (MLKCH) patients and community members of South LA.

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
As the Supervisor of Social and Community Services for MLK Community Healthcare (MLKCH) and with more than 15 years of social services experience working with the underserved population from Kern County to Los Angeles County. I always had a strong passion for helping others and addressing their social needs. Working tirelessly to create positive changes and improve the lives if individuals and families in South LA’s community.
One of my most notable achievements is my involvement in establishing social work services for MLKCH Ambulatory Department since my initial start in 2017, as their first social worker. Recognizing the importance of the community’s lack of resources, I incorporated the Social Determinants of Health into MLKCH Ambulatory Department to help address our patient’s social needs and helping them access resources and providing support.
I established a comprehensive outreach program at MLKCH Ambulatory Department to connect patients and community members experiencing food insecurity, homelessness, education and medical services.
I was a key leader of MLKCH successful Recipe For Health program, which helps our patients address food insecurity and healthier food options. With this addition, I have helped bridge the gap between underserved communities and vital resources needed.

Any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general?
Building connections and collaborating with other organizations that are aiming for the same goal as you are has been my key to helping our MLKCH patients and community members. Having that unwavering commitment in addressing social needs can positively impacting the lives of countless individuals in your community.
Being a good leader, having compassion, determination and an innovative approach can be a driven force for positive change can lead to a successful journey.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.mlkch.org/foundation-events/dream-show-2024/alex-rivera
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alrivera3000/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/alrivers95/
• Youtube: https://youtu.be/W2G7xqH824Y?feature=shared