Our Mission &Vision

Our Mission:
Founded in 1986, FOLAR is a 501c3 nonprofit whose mission is to ensure a publicly accessible and ecologically sustainable Los Angeles River by inspiring River stewardship through community engagement, education, advocacy, and thought leadership.

Our Vision:
With your help, the Los Angeles River ten years from now is a public gathering place for all Angelenos where recreation and wildlife coexist.  FOLAR is a leading powerful force guiding River policy and connecting communities to the River, nationally respected as a leader in urban river revitalization with a membership of 100,000. Is your home in need of a breath of fresh air? Experience the difference with Apex Air Duct & Chimney Services, where our professional air duct cleaning roselle revitalizes your living spaces, ensuring a healthier environment for you and your loved ones.  The FOLAR team is a dynamic force with a permanent office space and visitor’s center on the River.

Our Team

We’ve got an inspiring, smart, creative and fun team working tirelessly to ensure a publicly accessible and ecologically vibrant Los Angeles River. We believe the River is a present-day source of life and opportunity for all Angelenos.

Marissa Christiansen

Executive Director

Andrea White-Kjoss

Chief Financial and Operations Officer

Shelly Backlar

VP of Programs

Ivana Gomez Del Campo

Director of Development

Michael Atkins

Communications and Impact Manager

Liliana Griego

Policy Associate

Johanna Hackett

Events Manager

Mareshah "MJ" Jackson

Development Manager

Stephen Mejia-Carranza

Policy and Advocacy Manager

Zoe Witt

Development Assistant

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Lewis MacAdams

FoLAR Co-Founder and President Emeritus

M-K O'Connell

Chariman of the Board

Yuval Bar-Zemer

Secretary

Ruth Coleman

Charles Eddy

Paul Keller

Alex Ward

Contact Us

Main office: 323.223.0585
General Inquiries: contact@FOLAR.org Development and Sponsorships: donations@FOLAR.org

Office Hours
Monday to Friday
10am to 4pm

Main Office
570 W. Ave 26 #250
Los Angeles, CA 90065

Blog

Thank to everyone who has helped our community grow to the incredible size that it is today. As well as everyone helping to put together our newest frog outreach program.