Better Angels United Inc. is a nonprofit organization based in Los Angeles, California, dedicated to addressing the homelessness crisis in Los Angeles County. By leveraging innovation, modern technology, and pragmatic solutions, the organization focuses on five core pillars: Prevention, Services, Shelter, Technology, and Housing. This holistic approach aims to assist individuals at risk of eviction and those already experiencing homelessness, providing comprehensive support to transition them into stable, permanent housing.
Key Strategic Focus
Better Angels United's strategic focus encompasses:
- Prevention: Implementing the Short Term Eviction Protection (STEP) program, which utilizes microfinance techniques to offer zero-interest, zero-expense loans to individuals at imminent risk of eviction.
- Services: Providing treatment, access to shelter, entitlement assistance, job training, and essential services such as food and healthcare to those experiencing homelessness.
- Shelter and Housing: Developing and managing shelter facilities and affordable housing solutions to accommodate the needs of the homeless population.
- Technology: Creating digital profiles to assist case managers in tracking and supporting clients effectively, ensuring timely and personalized interventions.
Financials and Funding
In the fiscal year ending December 2023, Better Angels United reported:
- Revenue: $1,706,430
- Expenses: $1,659,687
- Net Assets: $156,284
The organization relies heavily on contributions, which constituted 99.9% of its total revenue for that year.
Technological Platform and Innovation
Better Angels United emphasizes the development of user-friendly technology to streamline service delivery and enhance data management. Their technological initiatives include:
- Real-Time Data Visualization: Aggregating data from outreach and shelter applications to automate compliance reporting, track performance benchmarks, and provide stakeholders with insights into program effectiveness over time.
- Outreach Tools: Developing applications that assist in meeting deadlines, locating clients, finding shelter, tracking services, automating note-taking, and accessing client information efficiently.
- Data Analytics: Utilizing dashboards for flexible understanding of efforts toward sustainable housing, with capabilities to drill down into specific steps and visualize geographic trends over time.
Leadership Team
The leadership team of Better Angels United includes:
- Adam Miller: Founder and CEO. A social entrepreneur and philanthropist, Adam previously founded Cornerstone OnDemand, growing it into a global educational technology leader. He has also held leadership roles in organizations such as Team Rubicon and FARE (Food Allergy Research & Education).
- Emma Kaplan: Vice President of Strategic Initiatives.
- John Ritchey: Director of Product.
- Elisabeth Unton: Director of Services.
Competitor Profile
In the realm of addressing homelessness in Los Angeles, Better Angels United operates alongside several organizations:
- Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority (LAHSA): A joint powers authority responsible for coordinating and managing federal, state, county, and city funds for homeless programs throughout Los Angeles County.
- Union Rescue Mission: One of the largest missions of its kind in the United States, offering comprehensive emergency and long-term services to those experiencing homelessness.
- PATH (People Assisting the Homeless): A statewide organization providing services to help individuals find permanent housing and support services.
These organizations, along with Better Angels United, contribute to a multifaceted approach to combating homelessness, each bringing unique strategies and resources to the table.
Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships
Better Angels United collaborates with various stakeholders across the public, private, and nonprofit sectors to enhance its impact. These partnerships are integral to implementing their five core pillars effectively, ensuring a comprehensive and coordinated response to homelessness in Los Angeles County.
Operational Insights
By integrating innovative technology with traditional service models, Better Angels United differentiates itself in the nonprofit sector. Their focus on real-time data and user-friendly applications enhances service delivery, making interventions more timely and effective. This technological edge, combined with a holistic approach, positions the organization to address the complex challenges of homelessness more efficiently.
Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions
Looking ahead, Better Angels United aims to expand its technological platforms, enhance data analytics capabilities, and strengthen partnerships to scale its impact. By continuously innovating and adapting to the evolving landscape of homelessness, the organization seeks to provide sustainable solutions and contribute significantly to reducing homelessness in Los Angeles County.
Contact Information
- Website: betterangels.la
- Facebook: betterangelsla
For inquiries, please refer to the contact details provided on their official website.
