Local Community Development Initiative (LCDI) Program

Local Community Development Initiative (LCDI) Program

Overview: The LCDI Program is an Amalfi Foundation Initiative which takes a proactive and individualized approach to philanthropy focused on directly changing the lives of those experiencing homelessness and/or extreme poverty.

Mission & Purpose

The Amalfi Foundation established the LCDI to address issues of homelessness and poverty in Greater Los Angeles and Conejo Valley by providing support, education, and resources to establish a clear path to stable, successful futures.

Geographic Scope

• Greater Los Angeles
• Conejo Valley
• California, US

Target Population

• Currently unhoused individuals
• Low-income individuals and families
• Those struggling with extreme poverty

Program Duration

• 6-month accelerator program

Support Team

Each participant works with a dedicated LCDI Support Team comprised of:
• Case Manager
• Financial Consultant
• Career Advisor

Financial Assistance Provided

• Rent assistance
• Utilities
• Food costs
• Career certifications
• Professional apparel
• Grocery costs
• Car insurance
• Gas cards
• Healthcare
• Mental health referrals
• Other individualized assistance

Program Framework

The LCDI Program operates on a Motivational Interviewing Framework (evidence-based approach to behavior change) with four fundamental tenets:

#### Engaging
Establish a productive working relationship through careful listening to understand and accurately reflect the person's experience and perspective while affirming strengths and supporting autonomy.

#### Focusing
Negotiate an agenda that draws on both client and practitioner expertise to agree on a shared purpose.

#### Evoking
Gently explore and help the person build their own "why" of change through eliciting ideas and motivations. Ambivalence is normalized and explored without judgment.

#### Planning
Explore the "how" of change where the practitioner supports the person to consolidate commitment to change and develop a plan based on their own insights and expertise.

Key Program Components

#### Developing Key Goals

Establish short-term and long-term goals within the first meeting

Allow candidates to choose their own path while ensuring it is clear, actionable, and sustainable

Work with 1:1 Case Managers to establish clear action plans

Comprehensive wraparound approach prioritizing:

- Housing goals
- Career goals
- Financial goals
- Social goals
- Emotional goals

#### Promoting Financial Health

Financial education and strategies for long-term sustainability

Review personal spending habits, fixed costs, and income sources

Create defined budgets within constraints

Provide funding for basic needs during 6-month program so participants can save capital

Graduate program with healthy savings account

#### Prioritizing Quality Careers

Refine resumes

Discuss career paths

Develop LinkedIn profiles

Practice interview skills

Provide professional attire for job interviews

Coaching and mentorship for maintaining performance once employed

Regular check-ins to ensure job performance and upward career growth

#### Ensuring Longevity & Self-Sufficiency

Address root causes of participant needs

Invest in long-term stability and success

Goal: Upon graduation, participants can maintain healthy living habits independently

Participants remain part of Amalfi Foundation community after program ends

Regular check-in calls post-program to evaluate success and determine continued support

How Participants Are Identified

• Recommendations from non-profit partners in the homeless shelter community
• Daily basis reception of recommendations for individuals who could benefit

Weekly Engagement

• Weekly meetings with LCDI Candidates
• Establish 6-month growth plan
• Prioritize career development, personal financial budgeting, and life organization

Organization Details

• Funder: The Amalfi Jets Charitable Foundation Inc. dba The Amalfi Foundation
• Status: 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization
• EIN: 88-3566648
• Address: 30851 Agoura Rd Suite 305, Agoura Hills, CA 91301