LORI BABB | guest writer

Twelve students from APU spent the weekend of Nov. 15-18 touring inner-city Los Angeles, courtesy of LA 101. In these four days, students and staff members visited non-profit organizations, Skid Row, Miracle Mile, sweatshops, and other institutions of Los Angeles related to social injustice.

“It is a great learning experience that helps students understand the systems in place and what is going on in the community,” Community Partnerships Coordinator Heather Haskell said.

Public transportation, as well as walking, served as the daily means for familiarizing participants with the city.

“It gets really interesting and tiring when you have missed your bus and have to wait for the next one, but that’s part of the experience,” Student Ministry Coordinator Naomi Mehl said.

This program is a ministry opportunity for students to explore and learn more about the “City of Angels.” LA 101 challenges students and staff to critically approach issues related to the effects of impoverished communities.

“The goal is that the program transforms you and how you see Christianity and the world,” Mehl said.

During their weekend, participants met people whose lives are affected by issues related to economic and racial reconciliation, social justice, and crime. One particular site was the Twin Towers Correctional Facility at which students toured the living quarters of the inmates.

“The jail visit made me feel torn about our justice system. The guard treated the prisoners as if it were a zoo,” sophomore and business administration major Joanie Cusack said.

After each visit, students were given the opportunity to reflect in their discussion groups or with personal time. Journaling, asking questions, praying, and reading were just few ways in which students processed what they were learning.

“It was an eye-opening experience knowing that all of this is going on just 30 miles away while I am just sitting here,” Cusack said.

Not only were participants confronted with the problems of the city, but they also were presented with solutions. LA 101 unveils options for students to contribute to the improvement of society by introducing them to church leaders, service providers, and organization leaders already in the mission.

“I liked how much hope they show you in the midst of the problems you face,” sophomore psychology major Mary Visker said. “You learn to understand true community.”

LA 101 is offered four times a year: in October, November, February, and March. It accepts fifteen APU students of any age, major or grade. Currently, the staff is working on expanding LA 101 by including students from other universities beginning in the spring term.

“I think it will add dynamic to the dialogue within the discussion and learning of the group with a non-Christian perspective,” said Mehl.

Students also earn 30 ministry credits for participating in LA 101. In addition to the weekend’s events, participants are required to attend prior and subsequent meetings for preparation and debriefing.

“We hope to stir ministry, implement it, and make it more tangible,” Haskell said.

LA 101 seeks people who desire to explore Los Angeles and cultivate a knowledge and passion for social improvement. Students who match this prototype are advised to not hesitate to sign-up because there are only two remaining opportunities for the school year.