A Statement from the LAFD Foundation

Dear Donors, 

The Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) Foundation plays an essential role in Los Angeles by moving quickly to fill critical gaps identified by our Fire Department. Our work is only possible because of you, and we hope you have had a chance to review our 2025 Impact Report, which details our contributions to the LAFD over the past year.  

You may have also seen recent news coverage of the LAFD’s hiring of a communications firm last year. The Foundation’s role was straightforward – with the LAFD communications director role vacant, the previous administration requested funding to hire a consultant to fill those duties until the position was filled. The Foundation provided $65,000 for this purpose. The LAFD selected the consultant (The Lede Company) and identified the scope of work.  

This is exactly how we always operate: fast, responsive, and in service to the Department’s needs.

Our work is also always governed by transparency and accountability. The Foundation is independently audited annually, and our latest audit is publicly available on our website. The Foundation has earned the highest possible ratings on Charity Navigator and Candid, and we have a clear policy wherein any donor can restrict a contribution to support a particular project or program. One hundred percent of all restricted contributions go directly to support whatever project, program, or item the donor identifies.

We are transparent because our supporters and Angelenos deserve nothing less – and because we are proud of the work you support.  

As one of the largest fire departments in the nation, the LAFD will be responding to climate-driven wildfires that are no longer rare, but recurring. The LAFD is reshaping how it must grow and adapt to protect one of the most complex cities in the world. As the Department evolves, so will the LAFD Foundation.

If you have any questions about last year or the year ahead, please do not hesitate to contact me at (310) 552-4139 or Liz@SupportLAFD.org.

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Thank you for all that you do.

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Liz Lin                                   Mike Ahmar

President                              Chairman, Board of Directors