Founded in October 1995 by long-time Salvadoran peace activists, SALEF serves the Central American and other Latino immigrant populations and those who are becoming New Americans. Our service area includes Pico Union, south-east Los Angeles, south Los Angeles and throughout California. Pico-Union/Westlake is a vibrant community located southwest of downtown Los Angeles and one of the most densely populated in Los Angeles County. SALEF has worked in this community for over thirteen years developing close partnerships and building trust with area residents, schools, community organizations, elected officials and government and business leaders. SALEF’s ongoing organizing efforts, community events, targeted issue campaigns, youth outreach, and various conferences and projects occur continually and promote community empowerment.
SALEF’s mission is to advocate for the educational advancement, civic participation, leadership and economic prosperity of Salvadoran and other Latino communities in the U.S.; and to advance democracy and social justice in the U.S. and El Salvador.
