From 826LA in Echo Park: Benjamin Chapman is an L.A. native who is always mistaken for a transplant because of his “un-L.A.” attitude. Educated at U.C. Berkeley and Loyola Law School, he worked for the District Attorney’s Office and then left to manage apartment buildings. But he always looks for ways to escape the “real world.” When finds them, he likes to write creatively, read a ton, hike, visit museums, and bum around, couch surfing across America and through the world. His favorite escape? After-School Tutoring at 826LA in Echo Park, of course!
He’s proud that he’s a misfit and will never fit into anyone’s expectations of him. He defies categorization.
From 826LA at Manual Arts:
Leticia Rojas began volunteering for 826LA in September of 2016. She participated in the “Great L.A. Personal Statement Weekend” and has volunteered at Manual Arts, working with students in various capacities. When not volunteering at 826LA, Letty works as an Assistant Professor at Brandman University in Ontario in their Teacher Education Department. Prior to this, though, she was a high school English teacher, which is why she enjoys working with 826LA and the organization’s focus on student voice and activism through writing. She is also passionate about writing and is currently taking an Introduction to Playwriting course for her own growth.
From 826LA in Mar Vista:
Shelby is an accounting and finance professional and native Angeleno. Shelby is always looking for new ways to get involved but loves Personal Statement, Hammer, and most recently the journalism workshops. A self proclaimed introvert, you can usually find Shelby reading a book at home or spending time with friends and family. Shelby also enjoys exploring new restaurants and museums.