Who We Are
Our History
Harbor Connects began as Harbor Neighborhood Relief Fund (HNRF) in March 2020. Founded by a dedicated group of community leaders, during the early days of the pandemic, the fund was established to support the most vulnerable individuals and families in the harbor area who were in immediate need of assistance and resources.
Leveraging a seed grant from Los Angeles City Council District 15 and building upon insights and expertise gained as an all-volunteer effort, the Harbor Connects board of directors established an independent nonprofit organization to support this ongoing, critical work in our communities.
Who We’ve Helped
Williams Story
Learn about Williams story and how we helped.
Our People
Meet The Team
The people behind the scenes at Harbor Connects.
Staff
Meghan Langfield, MSW
Executive Director
Travis Cole, MA
Engagement Coordinator
Monique Verdugo
Operations & Administrative Assistant
Board of Directors
Chair
Lisa Williams
Homeless Advocate
Vice Chair
Lee Williams
The Lee Williams Real Estate Group
Secretary
Rev. Dr. Amanda Adams Riley
The Garden Church, San Pedro, Lead Pastor
Treasurer
Jennifer Saito-Zipfel
Corporate Finance Consultant
Directors
Rafael Garcia
Phillips 66 / Catellus-Deca LLC., Community Relations Coordinator
Amy Grat
Community Advocate
Stephen Gutierrez, MS
Los Angeles Fire Department, Deputy Chief
Lauren Johnson
Jerico Development
John McOksker
Burke, Williams & Sorensen, LLP, Partner
Gaby Medina
SoCalGas, Public Affairs Manager
Amber Sheikh
SHEIKH/Impact, CEO
Our Vision
Goals For The Future
How we plan to grow our impact at Harbor Connects.
1. Expand Neighbor Support
Expand our program to serve more neighbors and ensure equitable access throughout CD15.
2. Neighbors Helping Neighbors
Offer hands-on, individualized support—rides to appointments, help with budgeting, learning healthy cooking skills, and whatever practical assistance a neighbor needs to secure housing and stay housed.
3. Strengthen Volunteer & Community Networks
Recruit and train more volunteers while deepening partnerships with faith-based organizations, local businesses, and community groups.
4. Demonstrate Measurable Impact
Track outcomes, share success stories, and show how support translates into lasting housing stability.
5. Increase Funding & Program Sustainability
Secure multi-year funding to expand capacity, fill service gaps, and ensure consistent, long-term support for neighbors.
Total Spent Assisting Neighbors in 2024:
$105,894.56
In 2024, we assisted over 1,100 individuals and families, spending more than $105,000. For a more detailed breakdown of how our funds were spent, please take a look at our 2024 Impact Report.
Visionary Leadership Award Gala 2026
Thank You To
Our Sponsors!
Advocate
Connector
Supporter
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