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Who we are

About Us

Community Women Vital Voices (CWVV) is a community-driven organization dedicated to empowering women and girls through education, connection, and advocacy. We create inclusive spaces that uplift voices, support well-being, and inspire positive change within our communities.

Mission
Our Story
Team
Board
Who We Are

Our Mission & Values

Driven by purpose, guided by community, and committed to lasting change for women and girls everywhere.

Our Vision

We envision a future where every woman is empowered, every family is supported, and every voice is heard.

A future where equity is not an aspiration—but a reality. Where access to health, education, and opportunity is guaranteed, not given by chance. Where communities are strengthened because those most impacted are leading the way and individuals who have been marginalized has the support and resources needed to succeed.

We are building more than programs—we are building a pipeline of leadership that is driven by purpose. Preparing the next generation of young women and men to rise, to lead, and to carry this mission forward with courage and conviction.

Because when women lead and families are educated, communities thrive—and the future transforms.

What We Do

We do more than serve—we mobilize, uplift, and transform.

Through targeted programs and community-driven initiatives, we support women, families, girls, and marginalized communities with the tools they need to rise—education, wellness, leadership development, and direct access to critical resources.

We create spaces where voices are heard, leaders are developed, and real solutions take shape. We convene meaningful conversations, build strategic partnerships, and respond to the issues impacting our communities in real time.

Because our work is not just about meeting needs—it's about unlocking potential, strengthening communities, and empowering individuals to lead with confidence, purpose, and power.

Our Community

Our community is built on connection, collaboration, and shared purpose. We bring together women, families, partners, and advocates who are committed to uplifting one another and strengthening the communities we live in.

A Legacy of Power, Purpose & Possibility

In 1996, Community Women Vital Voices was born from a bold and unwavering belief: when women rise, communities transform.

What began as a small, grassroots movement — then known as Community Women of the San Gabriel Valley — quickly became a force for change. Women gathered. Voices were heard. Truth was spoken. And from that foundation, a powerful platform for education, advocacy, and action emerged — ensuring that women and families were not just included in the conversation, but leading it.

As the community grew, so did the mission. In 2013, the organization became a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, expanding its reach and deepening its impact across the San Gabriel Valley and Los Angeles County. But this was never just about growth — it was about purpose. It was about showing up, standing in the gap, and doing the work that transforms lives.

And when crisis came, Community Women Vital Voices answered. In the wake of the 2025 Eaton Fire, when families were displaced and futures uncertain, the organization stepped forward — not just with words, but with action. Through the Eaton Fire Senior Summit Series, town halls, and direct relief efforts, critical resources reached those who needed them most. Seniors were supported. Families were uplifted. Voices were heard. Hope was restored.

Because this work is not just about programs — it is about people.

From providing food and dignity through the Annual John J. Kennedy Turkey Harvest Market, to preserving history and honoring legacy through the Black Legacy Project, Community Women Vital Voices stands at the intersection of service, advocacy, and empowerment.

This is where community becomes family.
This is where challenges become change.
This is where voices become power.

At its core, Community Women Vital Voices is driven by a truth that cannot be shaken: when women are informed, empowered, and supported, entire communities rise. And the work is not done. The future calls for greater investment, deeper partnerships, and bold leadership — building a legacy of resilience, leadership, and transformation for generations to come.

"Because together, we are not just responding to the moment — we are building a legacy."

LK
Lena Louise Kennedy
President & CEO, CWVV
Contact Us
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Meet the People Behind the Mission

Our Team

Dedicated women driving change, empowerment, and community impact every single day.

Lena Kennedy
President
Lena Kennedy
President & CEO
Denise Morey
COO
Denise Morey
COO
Kelly Russell
Comms
Kelly Russell
Communications
Lauren Siegel
Consultant
Lauren Siegel
Executive Consultant
Evan McLain
Executive
Evan McLain, MPH
Executive to CEO
Echo Hattix
Social Media
Echo Hattix
Social Media Manager
Advisory Board & Committee Members

Guiding our mission with wisdom, experience, and unwavering commitment to the community.

SY
Samella Yarborough
Advisory Board
JK
Jerice Kenebrew
Advisory Board
ZD
Zeeda Daniele
Advisory Board
EE
Elizabeth Ellis
Committee Member
SW
Sonya Ware
Committee Member
SH
Sandi Hamilton
Committee Member